When you’re on a quest to find some whitewater rafting in out of the way places, and you want a place to stay with easy access, you’ve come to the right place. ReserveAmerica has plenty of options for fabulous vacations. A whitewater rafting camping trip will satisfy the urge for real adventure. It’s time to get out and experience the excitement and vitality that wild waters can bring. Below are rivers with everything from Class I to Class V rafting as well as state parks nearby with comfortable overnight camping.
Talkeetna River
Nearby Camping – Denali State Park Alaska
Spectacular beauty awaits you in the Talkeetna Mountains with the Talkeetna River offering classic whitewater trips. This river has been called the “longest rapid in Alaska,” although you will find a few breaks and not very many recovery spaces. Hit the river for Class IV to V rapids in the swift glacial waters. Some trips are done in 3 to 4 days but a better pace might be 5 to 7 days. Bring a medium to large raft or kayak if you are doing it on your own.
Your base camp will be Denali State Park, your closest spot to outfitters who will prepare you for your adventure. When you aren’t braving the waters of the Talkeetna River, you can explore the forests and mountains of Denali, where you may glimpse the 20,320-foot Denali peak. The park has over 325,000 acres, almost reaching half the size of the state of Rhode Island. When you aren’t braving the waters of Talkeetna River, you can explore the wilderness terrain of Denali State Park.
Delaware River
Where to Camp: Clarence Fahnestock State Park New York
The Delaware River offers beautiful crystal clear waters, with Class II and III rapids flowing all seasons. When you reach a calm pool, you can take time out for a picnic lunch or to just soak up the sun. The Catskill Mountains and the Pocono Mountains make the backdrop of your adventure. It’s the perfect hot summer respite for those tired of staying inside.
About an hour away, your base camp awaits after a day of whitewater excitement. At Clarence Fahnestock State Park you’ll find comfortable campsites where you can relax those tired muscles. Stretch by walking through the park, getting in a little bird watching. Canopus Lake offers a beach where relaxation is extra special.
Recommended Article: More River Rafting Adventures around the Country
Vermillion River
Camp nearby at Starved Rock State Park Illinois
Finding an outfitter for your whitewater rafting on the Vermillion River should be easy. The trips will show you anywhere from Class I to II rapids and sometimes III when the water is high. Generally, though, you’ll find this river is great for beginners. Check the nearby outfitters to ensure the water levels will be high enough for when you’re ready to raft. The levels can sometimes change with the season.
Camping in Starved Rock State Park is the perfect home base for your whitewater trip. When you aren’t on the river, the park provides lovely nature trails with a number of gorgeous overlooks onto the Illinois River. Enjoy the rock formations and sandstone bluffs as you explore this fascinating area.
Colorado River
Where to Camp: Dead Horse Point State Park Utah
In Moab, Utah, you’ll discover a whitewater rafting adventure on the Colorado River that you’ll never forget. The trip down the Colorado offers legendary views of the red rock walls of the canyon and soaring towers of stone. You will get breaks in the excitement where you can pause and take a breather. You can take a half-day or a full-day trip; whatever you desire. The thrill of whitewater is always something to create a special vacation memory.
Dead Horse Point State Park is only 33 miles away, offering campsites where you can establish your home base. This park was created from geologic activity over millions of years. The movement of lakes, streams, ancient oceans and winds formed the rocks and pinnacles that you see as you look over the canyon.
Androscoggin River
Nearby Camping: Jericho Mountain State Park New Hampshire
You’ll experience some Class III and IV rapids on the Lower Androscoggin River or get a bit of a calmer trip with Class II and III waters on the Pontook Section of the Androscoggin River. It all depends on the ages and skill levels of the participants. Choose the trip that is right for you. A side benefit is being able to watch the wildlife as you float past.
At Jericho Mountain State Park there are lovely campsites that make for a comfortable visit and a home base for your adventure. There is a lake where you can fish when you aren’t off braving the rapids on the river. This is a spot where birding is a pleasure and perhaps you can add some new species to your list. Of course, most of your time will be spent on the river, rafting with friends and family for the day.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.