It’s almost rafting season again! I’m back in the office this week after being away for the winter, and as I start to answer the phones again, I realize I’m often asked the same questions. Here is a list of the most common ones!
What should I wear?
For most of our trips in the summer, the weather is typically warm and sunny. We recommend wearing synthetic-fabric shorts, sandals, and either a short-sleeve or long-sleeved quick-drying shirt. I personally like long-sleeves, as they keep my fair skin shaded and I don’t have to apply as much sunscreen. If you get hot, you can jump in the water and the wet sleeves will keep you cool after you get out. For more information, or to learn about being stylish on the river, read my blog post about river fashion.
Where are the bathrooms?
Each afternoon, upon arriving at camp, the guides will set up a portable toilet, a.k.a. “the groover.” This sanitary toilet is a plastic container with a toilet seat on top that has an airtight seal for transporting it. It will be located somewhere private, a short walk from camp, typically with great river views.
To make sure no one else walks down the trail while the groover is in use, a paddle will be placed across the trail to show that the “door” is shut. When you leave, “open” the door by moving the paddle parallel to the trail. A hand-washing system will be placed at the entrance of the trail, with clean water, soap, and hand sanitizer.
Will it rain?
Generally it doesn’t rain during the summer months in the West, but its always good to be prepared. The Rogue River typically only has a couple of rain storms each summer, and so if the forecast looks sunny, you may not need it, but please bring a rain jacket just in case. We see a few more storms on the Middle Fork of the Salmon each year. For early season on the Middle Fork, bring a rain shell or paddling jacket to wear on the river, and another one to wear at camp.
How do we pack our clothes?
We will provide a dry bag for your clothes, sleeping bag, and pad. This waterproof bag has an airtight seal to keep water out while the bags are on the raft.
During the day, as the bags will be strapped down to the raft, you will not have access to your camp bag. We also provide a “day bag” for things you may need during the day, such as sunscreen, an extra layer, a snack, and so on. This bag is also water-tight.
Let me know what other questions you think I should add to this list!
