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HIGH DESERT
River Adventure

Experience Oregon's John Day River

Enjoy the high desert landscape and meandering water along Oregon's longest free-flowing river.

Are you dreaming of slow days with your favorite people, away from the distraction of phones, social media, and work? Looking for a way to connect with family and friends surrounded by the beauty of the high desert? If you want to create memories with your loved ones and start the summer off right, this is the trip for you.

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This adventure is designed for folks looking for an experience on the river that includes rafting, camping, and optional kayaking. Great for groups with small children or folks who love the river and aren't looking for extreme whitewater. 

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This trip operates on the traditional territory of the ancestral lands of the Tenino, Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and the Numu (Northern Paiute).

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TRANSPORTATION
Your John Day River wilderness adventure begins the day before the trip start date, either at the Bend/Redmond airport, or in the town of Prineville. We'll meet at a hotel for a brief orientation and hand out dry bags for you to pack that evening. Bright and early the next morning, we will drive through the high desert landscape to our boat ramp on the John Day River, about two hours away. 

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THE BOATS
On this trip we will float the river on large inflatable rafts. Single-person sit-on-top kayaks are also available. Rafts carry 4-7 people plus one guide.

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ACCOMMODATIONS
We make every effort to make your outdoor experience in the Central Oregon wilderness a comfortable one with high quality camping equipment. We use spacious six-person tents, with two people or a family per tent, so you have plenty of space. We provide inflatable sleeping pads and cozy sleeping bags for nights under the stars after a long day on the water. Camp chairs are provided for relaxing on shore while you view the beautiful scenery, read, or just sip on a cold beverage. 

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MEALS
Meals are prepared by our talented river guides. Burgers, french toast, stir fry, and cheesecake will give you the energy for extreme relaxation and exploration each day. You will be served three meals a day plus snacks. We can accommodate most allergies and dietary restrictions, although the purchase of specialty food items my require a small additional fee. Give us a call or email with any specific questions.

ALL TRIPS INCLUDE

  • Talented, fun, experienced guides.

  • Three delicious meals a day, plus snacks.

  • All boating and safety equipment, including life jackets.

  • Water, hot drinks, and powdered sports drink.

  • Dry bags for transporting your personal items.

  • Satellite communication device in the event of an emergency (there is no cell service in the river corridor).

YOU bring

  • Personal clothes and toiletries.

  • Beer, wine, spirits, and soft drinks.

  • Tips for guides.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The John Day River in spring and summer is typically warm and dry, but summer thunderstorms do occur. In the event that we get some precipitation or cold weather, we will still continue with our trip . Please check the weather before your arrival and pack appropriately.

WHEN

May-June 2024

Contact for date availability

PRICE

Starting at $895/person, plus 3% public lands use fee

WHO

Age 3+

WHERE

John Day River near Mitchell, OR.

Nearest airport is Bend/Redmond (RDM)

Lodging

Camping in tents, all equipment provided.

RIVER RATING

Mellow: Class I-III rapids

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