Raft & Camp

Our review focuses on Raft & Camp, a guided overnight adventure in Arizona’s spectacular Salt River Canyon, featuring a full day of rafting combined with a night under the stars. Offered by Salt River Rafting, this trip is perfect for travelers seeking a balance between rugged outdoor challenge and comfortable guidance, making it a compelling choice for those eager to explore Arizona’s lesser-known wilderness. The package includes a drive-in campground just three miles off Hwy 60, where all camping amenities are set up and ready to go.

One possible consideration for travelers: the tour is limited to 15 participants, which ensures a personalized experience but might not suit those looking for larger, more bustling trips. Also, since all meals are included, you’ll want to be prepared for a full day of activity and outdoor dining. It’s a more relaxed pace than some heart-pounding, multi-day rafting adventures, but the focus remains on safety, scenery, and solitude.

What we love about this experience is the skill of the guides, who seem passionate about safety and fun, and the stunning natural scenery mostly untouched by crowds. The chance to fish, hike, and unwind around the campfire with delicious food makes this a memorable escape. But, as with all outdoor adventures, weather and water conditions can vary, so it’s worth factoring in a bit of flexibility for that.

Highlights

Full-day rafting adventure on the Salt River Canyon
Overnight camp under a star-lit sky with professional camping setup
All necessary rafting gear provided, including wetsuits and life jackets
Guided meals: breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by experienced guides
Small group size (maximum of 15) for a more personal quality experience
Opportunity to fish or hike at the camp site

An Overview of the Experience

Thinking of trying the Raft & Camp tour? Here’s what you can expect throughout the day and into the following night. The trip starts at Salt River Bridge near San Carlos, AZ at 10:00 am. You’ll meet your guides, who are trained professionals focused on your safety, those who also prioritize you having a good time.

Morning: Rafting Begins

After a quick safety briefing, you’ll gear up with provided wet suits, helmets, and life jackets — no need to worry if you’re not a water sports expert. You might find yourself in a swim suit, ready for whatever the Salt River throws at you. The full-day rafting trip offers scenic views and whitewater rapids in the Salt River Canyon—a less typical river experience compared to well-trodden national parks.

Multiple reviews align on the guides’ professionalism and good humor, noting that these knowledgeable leaders go above and beyond, building campfires, cooking meals, and keeping everyone safe. A lunch featuring grilled food by the river is included, giving you a break amidst the rapids and some well-deserved relaxing.

The Riverside Base Camp

After a day of paddling, you’ll arrive at a drive-in campsite located just 3 miles off Highway 60 at Second Campground. Operated similarly to a state park, this spot offers scenic beauty, along with options for fishing and short hikes before nightfall. The guides will set up your tents and build a campfire — a nice touch that turns roughing it into an easier outdoor adventure.

Evening: Campfire and Fatigue

In the evening, your guides will prepare a delicious dinner over the campfire, and afterwards, you’ll be able to relax, unobstructed by city lights, to watch the stars. If you’re lucky, clear desert skies will make for a stunning spectacle of constellations. You can also choose to extend your experience, camping again the next night or waking early for optional activities the following day.

The Next Morning

Breakfast is fired up early, with guides crafting a hearty meal to energize you for a morning fish or hike before packing up. The trip ends back at the meeting point once you’ve completed your adventure—a true taste of wilderness without the hassle of planning.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included are all the essentials: lunch, dinner, breakfast, wetsuits, life jackets, helmets, and professional guiding. This ensures a focus on fun rather than fuss. Dietary concerns are accommodated if requested.

However, gratuities are not included, so budget for tipping guides if you feel they’ve gone the extra mile — which they often do, according to reviews praising their knowledge and friendliness.

Paying attention to the price

At $340.20 per person, the cost is higher than some single-day rafting trips, but it reflects the all-inclusive nature — guiding, gear, accommodations, and meals. The value lies in the complete experience of combining whitewater rafting with comfortable camping, making it more than just a day on the water.

The Travelers’ Voice

Feedback from past participants gives this trip solid praise. One reviewer called it “the most amazing experience” they’ve had, emphasizing how everything exceeded expectations despite initial uncertainty. Another shared their love for the guides and the scenery, calling this a “favorite place on earth.” Visitors appreciate the small group size that creates an intimate vibe, especially evident in the consistent praise for the guides’ professionalism.

Groups of all kinds—families, Scouts, or adventure-seekers—feel comfortable on this trip, with one review highlighting the experience’s positive impact on boys and adults alike. The guides build a campfire and prepare meals, transforming what might be rough camping into a cozy, memorable experience.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The day kicks off with a 10:00 am meeting at the Salt River Bridge. From there, expect a quick gear fit and safety briefing before jumping into the raft. You’ll spend several hours paddling down part of Arizona’s scenic Salt River Canyon, which is known for exhilarating rapids and breathtaking rocky cliffs.

The lunch stop on the river is a highlight, with a riverside grilled meal that breaks up the adrenaline rush with relaxed camaraderie. The guides are attentive—they’ll help you navigate rapids and give insights into the canyon’s history, geology, and flora.

In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at the base camp, where trucks unload your camping gear if you’ve rented it, or guide you to your assigned site. The camp is a comfortable hub for hiking, fishing, or simply soaking in the atmosphere before evening. With guides building a campsite fire and cooking dinner, it’s about enjoying the wilderness without the hassle of setting up yourself.

The evening stars often outshine city lights, and many reviews mention how peaceful and special it is to sit around the campfire recounting the day’s adventures. The next morning, a hearty breakfast fuels you for further explorations or the journey home.

The Value of This Trip

While the cost of $340.20 might seem steep at first glance, think of what’s included: guided whitewater, all gear (including wetsuits for those chilly springs or fall trips), meals, and a chance to camp comfortably beside a river that few travelers get to experience. Opposed to renting equipment or booking separate accommodations and meals, this package bundles all essentials into a single, hassle-free adventure.

The small group limit of 15 ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere, which many reviewers appreciate. For families, small groups, or anyone wanting a genuine wilderness experience without roughing it completely, this trip strikes a nice balance.

Who’s It Best For?

This journey is ideal for adventurers wanting a day of whitewater combined with overnight camping, especially those new to rafting or outdoor camping but eager to learn. You’ll value the guided assistance, safety focus, and cooked meals, making this accessible to a wide range of ages and skill levels. If you relish stunning natural scenery—rock formations, starry nights, river vistas—this trip delivers those in spades.

It’s also perfect for group outings, from Scouts to family reunions, thanks to the many reviews praising its organization and friendly guides. However, those seeking multi-day wilderness adventures or highly intense rapids may want to explore other options, as this experience leans towards accessible fun over extreme challenge.

FAQ

How long is the entire experience?
The trip lasts approximately 1 day and 12 hours, starting at 10:00 am and concluding back at the meeting point later in the day.

What’s included in the price?
All rafting equipment, including wetsuits, life jackets, and helmets, plus guided meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast) are included. Camping gear is available to rent if needed, but guides will build the campfire and prepare the meals.

Is the tour suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, the experience is open to most travelers, and children as young as teens often participate comfortably. The reviews highlight family and scout groups enjoying the trip.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, dietary concerns are met upon request, ensuring everyone has suitable meals.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15, ensuring a personal and attentive atmosphere.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Salt River Bridge near San Carlos, AZ, and returns there at the end of the adventure.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included and is appreciated if you feel your guides did a great job.

What should I bring?
You should show up in a swimsuit, with a smile, and prepare for water and outdoor elements. Additional gear (if renting) will be provided.

Can I extend my stay or camp again?
Yes, you can choose to camp before or after the rafting trip, and the camp offers options for those wanting to extend their outdoor adventure.

Final Thoughts

The Raft & Camp experience offers a balanced, approachable way to explore Arizona’s Salt River Canyon. With impressive guides, comfortable camping, and a gorgeous natural setting, it delivers genuine value for those who want excitement without the scream-inducing intensity of more extreme guides. If you’re looking to connect with nature, enjoy scenic river views, and spend a night under the stars, this trip holds a lot of appeal.

It’s especially well-suited for families, small groups, or anyone new to outdoor adventure eager for a taste of wilderness with knowledgeable support. Between the guided meals, small group intimacy, and shutout from city life, this outing nicely combines exhilaration and tranquility in equal parts.