California Rafting with Children & Teens
There are wonderful,
scenic, river rafting trips in California suitable for children as young as 4
years old. We have raft trips in the Gold Country located close to Sacramento and Lake Tahoe,
and further north in the Shasta-Trinity and Klamath National Forests. You can
opt for a short half-day run, where you can bring your own picnic lunch, or a
great family rafting vacation of 2 to 4 days or more. A great way to experience
our multi-day trips on some of our easier runs is our Special Family Trips where on specific dates, youths raft
for half-price. Child friendly meals are provided and prepared by our
courteous, professional river guides.
On regular trips, youths and seniors
(bring the grandparents) receive a 10% discount. Group discounts are also
available for groups of 6 or more. Tributary caters to many Scout groups and youth groups and great discounts are available. Call for a quote.
There are age limit
recommendations, but children's capabilities vary considerably and we will be
glad to discuss this to ensure the best possible experience for the family. We
suggest a minimum age of 4 years old on Class 2 rivers, 7-8 years on Class 3 and
13 years on Class 4.
Rafting with the younger
or more timid child: 
Try a brief introduction on a half-day, Class 2 run
on the Lower Middle Fork American River.
This scenic wilderness raft trip in the Gold Country is a little gem. It is
more relaxed, mellower, and much less traveled than the nearby South Fork
American. Though close to civilization, it is possible to feel that you are
really getting away from it all. There are safe beach areas for picnicking and
play, and side hikes up creeks into shady dells with waterfalls. Wild-life is
often seen, and in late summer, stops are made to pick the most incredible
juicy black berries. Inflatable kayaks are often supplied for some added
adventure for the older youths and adults to share, so the trip can accommodate
a diverse group quite happily. Also for a mixed group, we offer a 4 mile run on the South Fork American River (Lotus Run) above the more advanced Gorge Run. Youths from 5 years and the less able bodied can raft with the group at the beginning of the trip, and everyone lunches together. The younger group stays at our riverside camp to play, or can visit the nearby Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park or local nature areas. The rest of the group continues on the river for a 9 mile Class 3 run. The East Fork Carson
River, close to South Lake Tahoe, is another Class 2 run for 1-2 days,
which offers wonderful hot springs, wilderness camping and unique High Sierra
scenery. In a good snow-pack year it can be rafted into July. Also trips on the Trinity River and Lower Klamath River in N. California both provide Class 2 and 3 sections, so these trips can be customized to accommodate the younger
child.
Rafting with youths from
7-8 years and younger teens:
The South Fork
American River, located in the historic Gold Country, is one of the most
popular rivers in the state. It provides an excellent first time trip, with
options from half-day to 2+ days. Near Lake Tahoe and Reno, a fun, ½ day
run on the Truckee River is available from mid-May
through September. This should not be confused with the raft rental float trips
out of Tahoe City. The Trinity River and
Lower Klamath in N. California both flow
throughout the summer and inflatable kayaks are available on these rivers.
Include a trip to Mount Shasta or the Redwoods, and you have the complete
vacation. Wild-life sightings are frequent, the fishing is good and great
riverside camping on gently sloping beaches.
Rafting with adventurous
teenagers:
A combination trip on the American River is a great choice for those who are adventurous, but with no previous experience. You get 1-2 days on the South Fork American, then step up to the excitement of Class 4 rapids. In the spring, choose the South/North Fork American Combo, and the South/Middle American Combo runs all summer into September. The Middle Fork American River is
a good step up for those who have already rafted or for the more athletic
youth. Its 17 miles provide Class 4 action throughout the summer on 1-3 day
trips. For a wilderness camping experience raft the Middle Fork American for
2-3 days and enjoy side hikes up shaded creeks, plunge pools, waterfalls, and
great fishing. A combination of the South Fork American and Middle Fork
American also makes a great 2-3 day trip. In the spring and in some years into
July, the North Fork Yuba River is a very scenic,
un-crowded Class 4 trip, just an hour from Nevada City. The area also offers
great scenery and rustic, historic towns.
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