What to bring and what Not to bring
For A One-Day Rafting Trip
Clothing:
For HOT WEATHER: On a summer whitewater rafting trip in July/August where temperatures are hovering in the 100s, comfort and protection from the sun are paramount. We recommend skipping the bikini or speedo and opting for fuller coverage such as rash guards or sleeved shirts of some kind and longer shorts or leggings. Though there are plenty of opportunities to get in the water to cool off, much of the day is spent on the raft with no shade or sun protection besides what you are wearing, and we’ve seen some pretty epic sunburns in the middle of July.
For COLD WEATHER: When cotton gets wet it stays wet and cold and can make you freeze on a cold day. If cold weather is predicted during your trip, synthetic or wool is the way to go! Fleece or wool sweaters are a great way to stay warm as are wool socks. We will advise you if a wetsuit is necessary for your trip.
Shoes:
Wear shoes that will stay on your feet! The best shoes are old running shoes or canvas lace-ups like Converse that you don't mind getting wet. They stay on your feet and protect you from sharp, hot rocks when you get out of the boat. Please avoid flip-flops, crocs, and slides for your own safety.
Equipment:
Hats & Sunglasses: We strongly recommend bringing a hat and pair of sunglasses for your trip – just don’t bring your most expensive sunglasses because there is always potential that they could get lost during your adventure.
Sunscreen:
Sunscreen isn’t a bad idea to bring along, be warned that you will need to re-apply during the trip due to splashing and getting in and out of the river. We recommend wearing higher-coverage clothing as your primary sun protection, but we do supply mesh bags on the boat to stow your sunscreen if you would like to bring it along.
Water bottle:
Please bring a personal water bottle on your trip. We no longer provide communal water bottles on the boat.
Medications:
If you need to bring medications, medical devices, or feminine hygiene products, please let your guide know so that they can store them in a designated water-resistant container.
What NOT to bring:
Wallets, keys, cell phones, heirloom jewelry – Anything that you bring on the boat with you is liable to end up at the bottom of the river. We do not provide dry bags for customer use, so there is no way to guarantee that your valuables will not drown or be lost. We do provide a place to lock up valuables safely during your trip so they will be waiting for you when you return from your adventure!
Backpacks, towels, and changes of clothes: You won’t need to worry about bringing extra clothes or gear with you on your trip. Everything taken on the boat will be thoroughly soaked by the end of the trip. You’ll need to leave your backpacks behind because there is no way to secure them to the boat and they will become a hazard.
Alcohol! Yes...we mean it! We don't want to rain on your parade but it is not legal for commercial rafting outfitters to have alcoholic beverages on the rafts. That beer will taste even better at the end of the day!
For A Two-Day Camping and Rafting Trip:
Clothing:
See above for recommendations for what to wear while rafting.
Camp Lotus tends to cool down significantly once the sun goes down, so in addition to your regular summer clothes to change into after rafting, a sweater or a light jacket may enhance your comfort.
Shoes:
For rafting, bring shoes that will stay on your feet such as old tennis shoes or Converse, or sandals such as tevas or chacos. Please avoid flip-flips, slides, or Crocs, and save those for when you are exporting our beautiful campsite after the trip!
Equipment:
Your reservation includes a spacious tent, but you will need to bring a pillow, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad. Tents are large enough to accommodate cots or air mattresses as well. Consider bringing an extra blanket as well, our campsite can get surprisingly chilly overnight, even in the middle of the summer.
Bugs are typically not a major issue in the summer, but can be a problem in the spring. Feel free to bring bug spray just in case.
Extras:
Food and drinks: If you would like to bring extra food or drink items, you are welcome to do so, please be aware that we do not provide any refrigeration or cooking facilities, so be sure to bring a cooler to keep your items cold and safe from critters.
Guide gratuity:
If you have a fun and safe river experience and feel that your guide did an outstanding job you are welcome to show your appreciation by giving them a tip.
And lastly… bring your courage and trust!
Whitewater rafting is an inherently dangerous activity. That is partly what makes it so exciting. Thousands of people go rafting on the South Fork every year and very few injuries are reported. If you are nervous, don't be afraid to let your guide know. River Runners guides are professionals and they know how to tailor the boating experience to help nervous guests feel at ease in the river environment. Listen to your guide and trust that they know what they are doing. They want you to have a good time and to make the most of your adventure.