Looking to maximize on-the-water fun and adventure? Consider extending your river-running experience with overnight whitewater rafting trips, very much among our offerings here at Echo Canyon River Expeditions. Situated just outside Cañon City, Colorado, we run some of the most fabled rapids in the American West, not least the spectacular whitewater of the Arkansas River’s Royal Gorge.
In this guide, we’ll spell out some of the pleasures of a two-day (or longer!) river package and detail what to pack for an overnight rafting trip.
Camping & Overnight White Water Rafting
Sometimes your schedule—or, of course, just your personal inclination—means that a whitewater rafting experience on the shorter side of things, a half-day or maybe a full-day adventure, makes the most sense. And, believe us, even just a few hours riding a gorgeous and wild river such as the Arkansas delivers big time in terms of excitement, scenery, wildlife-viewing potential, and all-around rejuvenating Mother Nature therapy.
But, if you can swing it, Colorado rafting and camping trips have the real potential to deepen your odyssey and its therapeutic effects. Rafting your way to a riverside campsite, reclining under the stars in the heart of a splendid canyon, then getting back on the flow the next day to cruise your way to a takeout spot: It’s a magical sort of immersion in “river time,” and the rewards—tangible and intangible, both—are very real.
On our Echo Canyon overnight and multi-day trips, which include a variety of options for lower- or higher-intensity adventures, we usually spend four to five hours per day on the river, with breakfast around 8 AM, a riverbank lunch at about 12:30 PM, and arrival at camp aimed for roughly 3:00 to 4:00 PM. That midafternoon campsite setup allows for some relaxation or activity time ahead of dinner.
As you might expect, overnighting it on the river demands a bit more in the packing department than a half-day outing. In the next section, we’ll detail what to pack for an overnight rafting trip.
Choosing the Right Gear
What to bring on an overnight raft trip? Remember, you can always touch base with the Echo Canyon River Expeditions team to learn exactly what you might want to tote for a given overnight rafting experience. But the following information provides a rough-and-ready version of a multi-day packing list.
Perhaps you’re wondering: “How do I pack efficiently for an overnight rafting trip?” Well, the trick is truly taking only what you need—clothing and other gear that you’ll actually use. One pair of pants, for example, is really all that’s typically needed on an overnighter (or even a three-day outing).
(For more details, take a gander at our Echo Canyon multi-day camping checklist!)
Clothing & Shoes
What types of clothing are most suitable for varying weather conditions and the demands of river running? When you’re actively rafting, you’ll want active/performance wear made from synthetic fibers, which provide the breathable, wicking, and quick-drying action you need for riding rapids. You can certainly bring along cotton clothing—but save it for the campsite!
Depending on the season and conditions, you’ll want shorts or a swimsuit and a shirt or sun hoodie for running the river, then insulating layers—including long pants, thick socks, and such outerwear as a warm jacket, rain jacket, and beanie—for camp. After all, it can get chilly at night in high-elevation Colorado, even in midsummer. Layers are important not only for basic insulation but also for being able to swap out wet clothes—you are running a river, after all!
In terms of footwear, water shoes, river shoes (which we provide complimentary), or strap-in sports sandals are ideal for rafting; you can bring comfortable camp shoes for when you’re off the water.
We also have wetsuits and splash jackets available if need be.
Don’t forget sunglasses with a strap!
Rafting Equipment
From the boats themselves to paddles/oars and life jackets, you can expect most river outfitters—and certainly Echo Canyon—to provide the basic rafting equipment you need.
Camping Gear
Here at Echo Canyon, we provide our overnight and multi-day rafting guests with tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads. If choosing another outfitter, be sure to check in beforehand to find out whether you need to bring any of these basic camping supplies yourself.
Food
Our Echo Canyon River Expeditions overnight experience gives you (delicious and hearty) dinner and breakfast, while we also provide lunches (including on the first and last days) on our multi-day/multi-night packages. (We ask that you give us at least a two-week heads-up about any particular dietary restrictions or food allergies.)
We also provide beverages such as water, lemonade, coffee, and tea. You’re welcome to bring other drinks such as beer, soda, or wine (don’t forget the bottle opener!); we’ll have a small cooler stocked with ice available.
Supplies
Standard camping supplies to bring along include a flashlight or headlamp, insect repellent, sunscreen, lip balm with sunscreen, and any necessary toiletries and medications. There’s plenty else you might want to pack as well, from games such as cards or a Frisbee to musical instruments, a waterproof camera (or waterproof phone pouch), fishing license and gear, or books (including a field guide or two!).
Safety Items
What safety equipment is typically provided by rafting companies? From PFDs to river helmets, we suit up all our guests in essential rafting safety gear and also have first-aid supplies along on every trip.
Reserve Your Spot Today
Double the pleasures of rafting the Arkansas River (or another grade-A Colorado flow) by making it an overnight odyssey with Echo Canyon River Expeditions!
At Echo Canyon, we specialize in unforgettable rafting and camping experiences. Discover some of the best overnight whitewater rafting that Colorado has to offer. Contact our enthusiastic team for more information about your next trip.
