When California rafting, we recommend that you don't bring a lot of gear. During inclement weather, the suggestions below will help you when you pack. W.E.T. River Trips includes wetsuits with all spring rafting trips. 
We recommend polypropylene, Capilene (any synthetic polyester fabric) long sleeve shirt or synthetic fabric shirt with a waterproof pullover during cooler weather. DO NOT WEAR ANY COTTON. The picture to your left shows how a typical undergarmet fits under your wetsuit. Saul's got a blue, long sleeve synthetic t-shirt on and his farmer john wetsuit. A lot of rafters also like to wear shorts over their wetsuit. This provides a little friction to prevent sliding off the raft thwarts during the paddling trip. He'll put on the splash jacket (see next photo below left) over everything along with his lifejacket.
For the most recent spring rafting suggestions on what to wear for rafting, visit our blog at raftwetblog.com.
also recommends that you bring extra clothing such as fleece jackets, rain parka and extra socks & shoes for camp. An all-weather tent is recommended 
because of sudden storms in the spring.
Complimentary tents are available for out-of-state reservations. For those of you who are in the "neighborhood" we recommend that you bring your own. If you do not have your own tent, please request one at the time of the reservation. Tents are at a 4 to 1 ratio.
All-weather polyester sleeping bag, pad, ground cloth, towel, flashlight, toiletries should also be brought. For sleeping bag rentals, call W.E.T. River Trips directly 1.888.723.8938
| ON THE RIVER | IN CAMP | RESOURCES |
|
fleece/poly undergarments 2-3mm farmer john wetsuit splash jacket tennis shoes w/wool socks |
dry change of clothes polyfleece jacket waterproof clothing rain parka extra shoes sleeping bag pad all weather tent flashlight towel toiletries bug juice |
Patagonia REI Target thrift stores your parent's old gear! |
On one day rafting trips on the American River, try to think minimalist. The weather in the foothills of California can be as high as 110 degrees. Sunblock, swim suit, shorts, tennis shoes are the basic. Shower facilities are available on the American River at our base campsite at Camp Lotus, so you might want to bring a dry change of clothes, toiletries, hair dryer, etc. for an evening in the local area. See El Dorado Co activities.
We recommend a high SPF for sunblock. Please note that children are very susceptible to sunburns and, also, consider long sleeves and long pants for fair-skin or redheads. Make sure that a pair of "Croakies" or "Chums" are attached to the eyeglass templates to prevent losing them in the rapids.
Extra money for tips for the guides and maybe for a quick dinner before you leave the local area. Nearest city is Sacramento with various activities, restaurants & lodging.
American River or Klamath multiple day trips, think about all the stuff you'll be lugging around and then subtract 75% of it. Shorts and/or bathing suit while you're on the water, so you'll only need a long pair of pants and a shirt during the evening. Keep your toiletries to a minimum. Keep it simple & you'll enjoy yourself even more on California rafting. On the South Fork American, we have a base camp with all the amenities, but on wilderness trips, such as the Middle Fork American, there are no flush toilets or showers.
Bug spray is nice, a towel for after your shower, flashlight for walking in the evening, a tent for privacy, a ground cloth, pad & sleeping bag will make you more comfortable on the American River whitewater trips.
| ON THE RIVER | IN CAMP | RESOURCES |
| sunblock shorts swim suit tennis shoes long sleeves for fair skin long pants for fair skin |
dry change of clothes sweatshirt or jacket light weight rain parka sleeping bag pad tent towel toiletries bug juice |
Patagonia REI Target thrift stores your parent's old gear! |
Warning: American River rafting flows through the foothills of California where ticks, mosquitoes and other lovely creatures reside. Please note that West Nile virus has been spotted throughout California so it is important that you recognize the possibility of mosquitoes that may carry the virus. Also, ticks and lyme disease are an issue anytime you are near deer country.
Long sleeves and long pants will help divert the bugs, and do not wear any fragrance or creams that may attract them. Natural remedies and products containing Deet will help you enjoy the outdoors without worrying about the "critters."
If you can't find the info you need...just call us
1.888.RAFTWET