Combine the freedom of van life with extraordinary outdoor experiences! For the van life adventurer seeking truly unique outdoor experiences, few compare to the allure of off-the-grid, remote whitewater rafting destinations. Rivers such as the Owyhee, Snake, Middle Fork American and East Fork Carson not only offer classic whitewater rafting experiences, but unique surprises wrapped into multi-day trips.
In partnership with Sandy Van’s out of San Diego we’ve put together four rafting trips that should be on every adventure van-ers bucket list.
1 Owyhee River – Remote, Unique Landscape + Hot Springs
The Owyhee River is known for its unique rugged beauty, clear skies and multiple naturally fed hot springs. This 4-day rafting trip features Class 3 rapids through remote desert canyons with red-rock spires, Honeycomb rock formations within the Chalk Basin, and Leslie Gulch areas. The Owyhee’s remote location also means you’ll be far from crowds- in fact the area is noted as one of the areas least tainted by light pollution in the lower 48 – this region is a hallmark for stargazing.
And did we mention hot springs? There are several hot springs along the river to soak in during the trip including Echo Rock Hot Springs, Snively Rock Hot Springs, Greely Hot Springs and Three Forks Hot Springs. Many of them are primitive with mud bottoms and varying in size.
2 Snake River / Hells Canyon – The Deepest River Canyon in North America
Raft with us down Snake River / Hells Canyon – the deepest river canyon in North America – yes, even deeper than the Grand Canyon! This remote area of Eastern Oregon offers some of the most beautiful vistas in the Pacific Northwest, with surrounding mountain tops reach 9,393 ft (Seven Devils Mountain) and fall nearly 8,000 ft to the river positioned at ~1,400 ft.
Over the course of our 4-day journey, we’ll enjoy a variety of activities, from side hikes to Suicide Point in the Seven Devils Mountains, to excellent fishing for bass, trout, sturgeon, and steelhead. We’ll also have the chance to see petroglyphs and observe diverse wildlife, such as bighorn sheep.
3 Middle Fork American River – Home of the Famed Tunnel Chute Rapid
Searching for a rafting trip with a bit more spice? Add the Middle Fork of the American River to your adventure list! Your day kicks off at our partner brewery, Crooked Lane Brewing in Auburn—home of the fan-favorite River Daze hazy IPA. This is where we’ll meet before heading to the river, and where you’ll return at the end of the day to toast your adventure with a well-earned pint.
The Class IV rafting action starts early, with 6 miles of big rapids including Last Chance, Submarine Hole, Kanaka, and the legendary Tunnel Chute—a 6-foot drop that sends you through a 90-foot-long rock tunnel. It’s a one-of-a-kind rapid you won’t forget.
Located just 30 minutes from Sacramento and on the way to Lake Tahoe, this trip is the perfect prelude to a weekend in the Sierra Nevada.
4 East Fork Carson River – Rafting, Camping and Hot Springs near Lake Tahoe
For those who enjoy combining their outdoor adventures with a bit of relaxation, the East Fork Carson River offers a great balance. Located near Lake Tahoe, in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains, there are many van-friendly camping spots in the area, allowing you to elongate your trip before or after your time on the river. The East Fork Carson provides a Class II more laid-back rafting experience while still offering beautiful alpine scenery. Our one night spent camping on the river will be at the natural hot springs – so you can enjoy multiple soaks on our layover.
Where do I park my Van?
We know you are wondering, “where do I park my van while I am on the river”? It depends on the river and trip. For many of our multi-day trips we work with local car shuttling service and have your van transported from our put in location to our takeout point. Your van is stored at the shuttle service’s secure lot during the trip and moved to our takeout spot the day our trip ends. When your trip is completed, your car will be waiting for you! Check out the full details here.
—
For van lifers, white water rafting on rivers like the Owyhee, Snake, and East Fork Carson offers a unique experience in a remote destination with an opportunity to connect disconnect and explore some of the most remote beautiful landscapes in the country. So, pack up your gear, hit the road, and set off for the ultimate adventure on some of the most exciting and scenic rivers in the West!
About Sandy Vans
Sandy Vans, based out of San Diego, specializes in crafting luxury adventure vans and products that fuse comfort, freedom, and adventure. Known for their meticulous designs and top-quality materials, Sandy Vans is committed to a lifestyle that’s “Focused on Living.” Their offerings include expertly converted adventure vans and innovative products such as the Boost Box. Sandy Vans consistently delivers high-quality solutions for adventurers who seek comfort and reliability on the open road. Learn more at www.sandyvans.com.”
