The Best Whitewater Rafting Rivers in California for Every Skill Level

The Thrill of a Lifetime Awaits – But Only for a Limited Time!

If you’re brand new to rafting or bringing the whole family, you’ll want a river that’s fun, scenic, and low-stress. These beginner-friendly runs are all about enjoying the ride without too many surprises.

The South Fork is probably the most popular beginner river in California, and for good reason. Located in the Sierra foothills near Sacramento, this river offers fun Class II and Class III rapids, plenty of sunshine, and beautiful canyon scenery.

You’ll get a mix of gentle floats and a few splashy rapids like “Troublemaker” and “Satan’s Cesspool.” Don’t worry, they’re not as scary as they sound. It’s the perfect river to learn the basics, laugh a lot, and maybe get a little soaked.

Good for: Families, first-timers, group trips

Season: April through September

Way up in Northern California, the Lower Klamath offers mellow Class I and II rapids in a peaceful, remote setting. It’s great if you're looking for a multi-day adventure without anything too intense.

You can spot wildlife like eagles, deer, and even the occasional bear (from a distance). The Klamath is also a great choice if you just want to enjoy nature and not worry too much about falling out of the boat.

Good for: Nature lovers, kids, camping trips

Season: May through September

If you’ve been rafting a few times and want a bit more excitement, California has some great rivers that hit that sweet spot. They’re challenging, but not too crazy.

Flowing out of Yosemite National Park, the Tuolumne (locals call it “The T”) is a step up in adventure. With Class III and Class IV rapids, it’s fast-moving, technical, and packed with action.

This river is for folks who are ready to paddle hard and take on some serious drops. It’s also incredibly scenic, with granite cliffs and deep gorges all around.

Good for: Experienced beginners, adventure seekers

Season: May through early August (flows can vary)

Also near Yosemite, the Merced offers springtime fun with big waves and cold snowmelt water. It's mostly Class III, with a few Class IV sections depending on water levels.

This one is ideal if you're comfortable in the water and ready to take it up a notch. Just be ready for strong paddling and fast-moving water, especially in high-flow years.

Good for: Strong beginners with a sense of adventure

Season: April to early June

If you live for adrenaline and love big, technical rapids, these rivers bring the heat. You’ll need solid paddling skills, quick reflexes, and a love for getting tossed around (safely, of course).

The Kern River is a whitewater legend—and it's where Whitewater Voyages runs all of our trips. Located in Southern California near Bakersfield, the Upper Kern is packed with powerful Class IV rapids like “Thunder Run” and “Powerhouse.” And if you're really experienced, the Forks of the Kern offers some of the best Class V rafting in the West.

The water is cold, the rapids are non-stop, and the adventure is real. Just be sure you know what you’re getting into. This is not a float trip.

Want to learn more about what Class IV rapids are really like? Check out What to Expect on Advanced Rapids.

Good for: Hardcore paddlers, adrenaline junkies

Season: May through July (flows vary a lot, spring is best)

Tucked away in Northern California, the Cal-Salmon is short but fierce. It's known for its steep drops, huge waves, and remote wilderness vibe. The rapids are mostly Class IV and V, so this is definitely for experienced rafters only.

Because it’s so remote, most trips here are run by expert guides and require solid gear. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s one of the most epic runs you’ll ever do.

Good for: Expert rafters, thrill-seekers

Season: April to early May

No matter your skill level, safety on the river is a must. Even the calmest rivers can be dangerous if you’re not prepared. Make sure to wear a proper life jacket, listen to your guide, and know what to do if you fall out of the boat.

If you’re new to rafting or just want a refresher, check out our guide on Whitewater Rafting Safety Tips.

Whitewater rafting in California has something for everyone. But if you're looking for a river that brings the perfect mix of challenge, beauty, and unforgettable fun, the Kern River is the place to be.

Ready to book your rafting trip on the Kern River in California? Check out our rafting trips now!!

Let’s paddle!