Whitewater Rafting in California

This site is intended as a resource for whitewater recreation in California. The information is designed to benefit rafting enthusiasts and private rafters. Our site has information about California outfitters and also resources for rafting businesses. Our goal is to provide river information, stories, discussion, gear, flows, and other resources specifically for California whitewater rafting.

The Five Must-Do Rivers in California

1. The South Fork of the American: This is the most popular rafting trip in California because it has lots of Class III+ rapids, a long rafting season, and is relatively safe. Spring, Summer and Fall.

2. The North Fork of the American: Steep Class IV rapids in a tight gorge with crystal clear water. This is the premier class IV trip on the American River. This makes a great trip for those of you that want a technical challenge. Spring and early Summer.

3. The Tuolumne: This river is the cream of the crop with famous Class IV rapids and "Wild and Scenic" scenery. Located near Yosemite National Park, most of the river takes advantage of the great hikes and spectacular scenery by spending a night or two in the canyon. Spring and Summer.

4. The Cal Salmon: This California rafting trip is for those of you that are hooked. Near the California-Oregon border, this river is well worth the drive for the numerous Class IV rapids and three famous Class V rapids. You'll set up a base camp as you explore different sections of this river. Spring only.

5. Forks of the Kern: This three day trip has over 40 Class IV rapids and 3 big Class V's. Granite boulders, breathtaking vistas, and huge waterfalls make this a spectacular rafting trip. You'll have to hike two miles into the put-in and warm-up on some other class IV rivers first, though. Spring only.

California Rafting News

Kokatat Supports Team Member and Crew In Descent of Fitzroy River Kokatat Supports Team Member and Crew In Descent of Fitzroy River (Feb 2)

Our Winter Newsletter is Out! World-Class River Trips Oregon, Northern California, and beyond… Hello, The Owyhee The Illinois - Prelude rapid How are y... (Jan 26)

National Geographic Lists the Top 10 Whitewater Rivers In National Geographic’s Journeys of a Lifetime, you’ll find 500 of the world’s greatest trips, including a wonderful top-ten list o... (Jan 26)

British Columbia - Chilko River Join us for a journey down the Chilko, Chilcotin and Fraser Rivers ? a trip unmatched in its scenic diversity and huge stretches of class IV whitewate... (Jan 26)

Ganglians Top Bands & Music Here's some year end lists we made, we really put a lot of thought into these, you should really check some of this music out. .... Anyways, here's so... (Jan 22)

Rogue Rafting Local Wine and Food Trip Southern Oregon has so many amazing local foods and wines. From Rogue Valley Creamery (winner of the best blue cheese in the world), to Dagoba Chocola... (Jan 20)

Rogue Spring Hike and Raft 4-Day Lodge Trips Hike, Raft, or a mix of both! The Rogue River National Recreation Trail follows the entire length of the Rogue River. It ducks up into beautiful side ... (Jan 20)

Fall Special - Fall Rafting Trips on The Rogue River The Fall is an amazing time to Raft the Rogue! Mild temperatures, fewer people, more bear siting’s, and fall foliage. This year we offering 10% ... (Jan 20)

Wild and Scenic Photography Workshop on the Rogue River Join professional photographer Jared Cruce for a visual journey down the Rogue River - one of America’s truly wild and scenic rivers. This trip ... (Jan 19)

WET Videos The digital world is rich with creative opportunities and education. We have been learning to make videos, and our staff and friends are learning, too... (Jan 19)

New ethical adventure sports website (Jan 15)

We Updated Our Website and our Winter Newsletter is coming soon! Well, I have been sitting in front of the computer WAY too long - my eyes are bleeding and I have lost all social skills. But, our website is up and u... (Jan 14)

Boston Ballet Auditions She was a whirling dirvish at three years old. Never out of a big twirly skirt; always in the mirror playing dress-up. My little girl, my baby... her ... (Jan 13)

Momentum Wine Tasting Trips Momentum Wine Tasting trips have become huge guest (and guide!) favorites. Even to non-wine drinkers ? those of us who grumble and say ?I like Beer?:)... (Jan 11)

Bachelor Party From Rafting Pictures of Northern California Whitewater Trips NFA RaceThe wedding is only 5 more months away! The planning started the minute I said, ... (Jan 8)

Disclaimer: River descriptions and classifications may change due to natural events that may create new hazards or flows. C-W-R advises that any paddler that uses this site be additionally informed by seeking out local news and updates for changes on this river.