Rafting Near San Francisco

Coming From The SF Bay Area?

If you’re looking for a peaceful mountain escape from the craziness of the San Francisco Bay Area, look no further than River Runners. The Sierra Nevada foothills offer a variety of exciting class II-IV+ whitewater rafting trips to suit your needs, and just a couple hours' drive from the city will land you in our serene campground where you can relax, unplug, and unwind with family and friends.

Bringing the whole family up for a weekend getaway? Our two-day camping and rafting package offers class II-III excitement for all ages and levels of experience, and we take care of all your meals and camping needs while you’re here.

Only have an afternoon for a quick trip? Our Gorge Express trip just might be the adventure for you, with a later morning start so you have plenty of time to drive up from the Bay Area but don’t miss out on all the thrill and joy our Gorge rafting trip has to offer.

If you’re hoping to amp up the thrill factor, check out our class IV North Fork American River or Middle Fork American River trips. Located within a 3 hour drive of San Francisco, these rivers offer a step up in intensity from the South Fork American River for those aged 14 and up.

We have seen sales executives, who are stressed out from work, play in the water like children, wiggle bare feet in the sand, skip rocks, take a deep breath, sigh and quizzically exclaim "I feel so relaxed!”  Seriously, this is our specialty at River Runners. We don't just offer tours where you get shoved around from point A to point B. We facilitate an experience that is guided by what you need from your vacation.

Family rafters at African Queen Rapid on Chili Bar

We don't just offer tours where you get shoved around from point A to point B. We facilitate an experience that is guided by what you need from your vacation.

South Fork Two-Day Trip

Relax, unwind, and unplug with River Runners' premier two-day whitewater rafting retreat on the South Fork of the American River. Let us do the work while you enjoy camping and each other's company. We set up your tents and cook for you. Wander around Camp Lotus and chill by the river. Pick some blackberries or enjoy a drink.  Experience both the Gorge and the Chili Bar sections of the river. Appropriate for most ages and adventure levels.

Trip Details...

South Fork Gorge Express

Not ready to commit to a full-day whitewater rafting trip or an early morning adventure? Meet us in the late morning. Bring a bagged lunch or something to eat while you get ready for your trip. Launch after noon and finish in the late afternoon. Enjoy 12 miles of river and rapids including Satan's Cesspool and Hospital Bar.

Trip Details...

If you’re not sure which trip is right for you, call, text, or email us and we will be delighted to help you plan your perfect getaway.

Are you ready to book your trip today?

View our calendar and check availability.