South Fork American River

What to Bring on Your
South Fork American Rafting Trip

What's Included

  • Professional Guide, instruction, and equipment
  • Wetsuits and Splash Jackets if required (seasonally dependent, see Wetsuit Information to learn more)
  • Delicious fresh meals (varies by itinerary)
  • River shuttle to and from the Meet Place for your trip

What to Wear

  • Athletic shoes that are lace-up or cinch-up
  • Swimsuit
  • Quick drying shorts to wear over swimsuit is recommended for more comfort
  • Thin long-sleeve shirt and pants made out of athletic materials for additional sun protection and/or extra layering
  • View wetsuit information and additional layering tips to learn about special clothing items required on trips occurring in spring, early summer, at higher flows, or in inclement weather
  • For additional information and helpful videos, see What to Wear for Rafting (by season)

Do NOT Wear

  • Flip-flops or open-toed sandals. This is not appropriate for rafting because open-toed shoes do not provide enough protection for your feet while in the raft or during a swim.
  • "Aqua-sock" type footwear, slip-ons, or loose fitting shoes. These slip off easily in the water.
  • Thick cotton clothing. When wet, cotton acts like a sponge and can keep you cool even on a fairly warm day.

What to Bring

  • Personal Medicine
  • Change of clothing for ride home
  • Waterproof sunblock, sunglasses with strap, hat, visor (optional)
  • Water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. There will be opportunities to refill your bottle at the meet place and during the trip.

There is limited space available in a water-resistant bag for additional items, such as rain gear or medication, that you might need during the day (no towels, please). This bag is usually available only during the lunch stop.

Do NOT Bring

Pets, expensive watch or jewelry, cell phone, or camera without water protection. Please note that storage of wallets, and other valuables is the participant's responsibility.

Additional Items for Overnight Trips

On South Fork American overnight trips, we stay at campsites where your car is conveniently parked close to your site and bathrooms with hot showers, flush toilets, and electricity make your stay easy and comfortable. Therefore, you can bring as many items as you feel necessary for camping. Your river attire should be packed separately so you can change into it at the Meet Place or put-in.

Packing List

Camp clothes:

  • Pants and/or shorts
  • Shirt
  • Sweatshirt or jacket
  • Dry shoes and socks, or sturdy sandals

Camping Gear:

  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping pad
  • Ground cloth
  • Tent (optional)
  • Toiletry items
  • Insect repellent
  • Flashlight

Optional items for downtime at camp:

  • Journal
  • Book
  • Deck of cards

Guests are welcome to bring their own alcohol in moderation for the evening at camp. The beverages can be stored in your vehicle in your own ice chest. All-Outdoors does not provide alcohol.



What to bring on a South Fork American River rafting trip

Camping on the South Fork American River

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