Learn how to row your own raft with confidence
Our whitewater rowing lessons deliver expert instruction designed to help you safely and confidently navigate whitewater with oars.
We offer highly personalized courses that are tailored to your specific needs, whether you've never rowed a raft before or you're looking to improve existing skills.
Instruction for your whitewater rowing lessons is always provided by class IV or V whitewater professionals with extensive commercial rowing experience.
You can expect to be introduced to and practice the following skills during your whitewater rowing lessons:
- Raft, frame, and oars selection and rigging
- Personal gear selection and preparation
- Safety foundations & oar management
- Rescue techniques and considerations
- River etiquette and trip strategy
- Reading water & understanding river hydraulics
- Recognizing and navigating river features
- Rowing techniques and mechanics
Rowing in whitewater is a distinct skill from paddle-guiding, so our whitewater rowing lessons are oriented towards preparing students for the unique joys and challenges of navigating the river with oars.
If you're interested in a course oriented towards paddle-guiding your own private trips, check out our private boaters guide school!
Not Sure If It’s Right for You?
- No prior rafting or rowing experience? You’re welcome here. We’ll build your skills from the ground up.
- Already have some experience? Perfect! You’ll refine technique, improve efficiency, and gain confidence behind the oars.
If your goal is to become a professional river guide from scratch, you’ll get more out of our professional guide school.
If your goal is to learn to confidently row your own raft and run your own trips, our whitewater rowing lessons are for you!
Quick Facts
- Location: South Fork American River
- Schedule: April - September
- Single or multi-day sessions available
- Minimum age: 16 (Minors must be accompanied by an adult)
- Pricing:
- $300 / person / day
- All taxes and fees are included
Booking Notes
- Meals: Lunch is provided on every day of instruction.
- If you're coming from a distance, camping at our site in Camp Lotus can be added for $20 per person per night.
- Campsite amenities include tables, potable drinking water source, flush toilets and hot showers.