Frequently Asked Rafting Questions
GENERAL:
• Why raft with Rivers?
• How do I make a reservation?
• What should I wear?
• What will I need for camping?
• How close is the New River Gorge National Park?
• Will my raft trip be videoed or photographed?
• What other activities are available in the area?
• Do you sell gift certificates?
• Can I save money?
RIVER RELATED:
• Who can raft?
• What does a whitewater raft trip include?
• What do the rapid classifications mean?
• When is the best time to raft?
• Can you accommodate groups?
• Do you have group discounts?
• How long is the rafting trip?
• Will our raft trip be guided?
• Can I request a guide?
SAFETY ISSUES:
• Is rafting safe?
• Will we have to sign a waiver?
• Will you have on-river communication?
• What if I have a medical condition?
• What if I am pregnant?
• What if I can't swim?
• Are you licensed by the state of West Virginia?
General
Why raft with Rivers?
Over twenty years ago our founder, Eddie Lilly, observed: "Show folks a good time and they'll come back." That simple, direct philosophy has been the cornerstone of Rivers every season. Two components of Rivers reflect this Philosophy. First, our facility. Simply put the Rivers facility is the nicest, cleanest, most complete facility in the eastern U.S. It is also the biggest. And while being the biggest is not what makes us the best, being the best is what makes us the biggest. More so than any other outfitter, anywhere, Rivers has everything. Secondly, because whitewater rafting is the centerpiece of Rivers Whitewater Rafting Resort our River Manager and Expedition Crew are the best. To our guides this is not a job; it's a way of life. With winter on the challenging rivers of Costa Rica and ongoing training on technique and safety, our guides are just like the rivers we work on...first class. Finally the Rivers experience is comprehensive. From the river trips to our beautiful camping and lodging facilities, dinner or good times with friends at the Red Dog River Saloon find out why we've never lost sight of our original mission: Show people a good time and they'll come back. VISIT US SOON AND WE'LL PROVE IT!
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How do I make a reservation?
Simply give Rivers a call at 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) or make a reservation request online. The best time to make a reservation is as soon as you can get your group together and pick a date. Availability on select weekends and holidays can be a problem. The sooner you book a reservation, the better the chance is that your first choice dates will be available. Our Adventure Travel Specialists are all very familiar with the wonderful places that are to be found in West Virginia and are skilled at helping plan your vacation. We can combine any Rivers Whitewater Trip with camping, lodging and meals. There are many area attractions and activities that our reservationists can arrange at special prices and special times. Call now for more reservations information. See you on the River!
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What should I wear?
Flexible secure footwear is required (old sneakers or river sandals). We also have wet suit booties for rent. Comfortable swimwear, a ball cap or visor, sunglasses and sunscreen are optimum equipment. Running shorts worn over swimwear maximizes comfort for women. In spring and fall, wear wool or polypropylene and a windbreaker over swimwear, wool or Polartec socks under sneakers or wetsuit booties (available from rental center). DO NOT WEAR COTTON on the river. Cotton, when wet, is very uncomfortable. For cold and wet weather, wear a wetsuit and paddling jacket or polypropylene, pile fleece and a windbreaker. You may rent wetsuits, booties and jackets from Rivers Rental Center the morning of your trip. (Most folks allow themselves 30 minutes extra to rent and put on wetsuits, etc.)
Rental Costs per day:
• Farmer John Wetsuit - $20.00
• Wetsuit Booties - $5.00
• Paddling Jacket - $10.00
• Wetsuit Package Deal - $30.00
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What will I need for camping?
Rivers Adventure packages provide the campsite only. You will need to bring tents, sleeping bags and toiletries for our shower house. Camping Cabins, Tent Platforms and an RV Park are all available at Rivers. Rivers' New River Basecamp is probably the center of nightlife in the New River Gorge. Weekends and Holidays there is live music in the Red Dog River Saloon. Those folks looking for a quieter kind of camping, PLEASE REQUEST A QUIET AREA CAMPING EXPERIENCE. Rivers offers several "quiet area" options, but the best rule of thumb at any resort or activity destination, for quieter, cheaper and more relaxed outdoor adventure, Sundays through Thursdays are the best time to come if your schedule will allow.
Basecamp Camping
$10.00/night Sunday-Thursday
$15.00/night Friday, Saturday & Holidays
(New River Basecamp, Gauley River Basecamp or Extreme Expeditions Campground)
Bridge Day Weekend - $25 per night with 2 night minimum stay
RV Sites (water, electric, dump station)
$20.00/night Sunday-Thursday
$25.00/night Friday, Saturday & Holidays
Rivers Camping Cabins
$50.00/night Sunday-Thursday
$75.00/night Friday, Saturday & Holidays
Bridge Day Weekend - $100 per night with 2 night minimum stay
These rustic country bunkhouses sleep 1-6 guests comfortably and are equipped with bunks on two sides and a loft over the porch. Guests need to bring pillows, sleeping bags and blankets. A $50 damage deposit and a $10 key deposit per cabin are required.
River Safari Tent Platforms
$20.00/night Sunday-Thursday
$25.00/night Friday, Saturday & Holidays
Bridge Day Weekend - $45 per night with 2 night minimum stay
Nestled in a private setting, sleeps up to four guests. A $20 damage deposit is required.
REMINDER: Always request "quiet area" or "party area" when making camping reservations.
Call 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) to make lodging arrangements or for more information
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How close is the New River Gorge National Park?
On the north side of the New River Gorge Bridge, Rivers Reservations and Information Center is located directly across the street from the New River Gorge National Park Visitor Center and Bridge Overlook. On the south side of the New River Gorge Bridge, Rivers New River Basecamp is almost directly under the New River Gorge Bridge and immediately beside the National Park Service Boundary (60,000 acres of wilderness beauty). The Mary Engles Draper Trail has one of its trailheads right beside Rivers Welcome Center. Our Gauley River Outpost Camping is completely surrounded by the Gauley River National River Area. This is our most remote camping experience.
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Will my raft trip be videoed or photographed?
Rivers contracts its photography service. Every effort is made to photograph each rafting trip. 8x10s of your trip are available immediately after the trip at the Photographers stand on the deck at the Outfitters Store.
Souvenir Photo Prices:
First Sheet
1- 8 X 10, 2- 5 X 7's, or 4- 3.5 X 5's
(Same photo on multiple photo sheets.)
$19.95
Two Sheets
(Mixed photos or the same photo)
$18.95 ea. / $37.90 total
Three Sheets
(Mixed photos or the same photo. Plenty to Share!)
$16.95 ea. / $50.85 total
Four or more Sheets
(Mixed Photos or the Same Photo)
$14.95 ea. / $59.80 Total for 4
Complete Set of Photos on CD
Yours to do with as you want; Print at home or at a photo shop, email, wallpaper, screensaver, t-shirts, posters, show off to friends and family…You Name It!
Best Deal $50.00 (Wow!)
Rivers in house Video Program is the industry standard with cutting edge quality in high action videos of your raft trip. Shown daily after the rafting trip in the World Famous Red Dog River Saloon. High voltage graphics and slo-mo make the Rivers video the very best way to share your whitewater action with friends and family. Rivers video program's managers make every effort to schedule video kayakers for every trip. The guys who video your trips are talented boaters and videographers, but boating is definitely their first love. Often, due to major kayak rodeos or National Competitions, kayakers are scarce. Covering all trips is not always possible. To guarantee your trip is videotaped, pre-paid arrangements can be made while making your reservations.
Video Rafting Action Tapes:
DVD Format (Add $10 vor VHS format)
• New River or Lower Gauley - $39.95
• Upper Gauley River - $49.95
• Gauley River Overnighter - $200.00 (by reservation only)
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What other activities are available in the area?
In addition to rafting, Rivers has a full service campground. Our campground features a lighted volleyball court, horseshoe pits, game room, restaurant and saloon. We also offer climbing and rappelling classes. We have guided smallmouth and musky trips on the New and Gauley Rivers, as well as fly fishing for trout in many area streams. Our horseback riding is contracted by a horse outfitter approximately 10 minutes from our New and Gauley River Basecamps. We also contract our Mountain Biking and ATV Tours with independent outfitters that have excellent programs that are specialized to your interest and skill level. Both are less than 5 minutes from Rivers New River Basecamp. If golf is your thing, Southern West Virginia has 8 beautiful mountaintop golf courses 30-45 minutes from Rivers New River Resort Complex. Most are public and priced moderately. Some are semi-private with greens fees and cart rental can become a little pricier. Rivers Reservation Office can arrange admission and tee times at all local golf courses and country clubs. Weekend tee times fill up fast, so reserve your trip and tee time as soon as possible. For help in planning or reserving any of these activities call our Adventure Travel Specialists. They can give you current prices, availability, brochures and any other information to help make your raft trip an adventure holiday.
Call 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483). FUN IN THE MOUNTAINS!
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Do you sell gift certificates?
You bet we do! Rivers Gift certificates make a great gift for someone special. Gift certificates can be used for Whitewater Rafting vacations on the New River and Gauley River, Climbing and Rappelling Clinics, Fly fishing, smallmouth and musky float trips. Rivers gift certificates can also be used at the Red Dog River Saloon and of course, at the Outfitters Store for a great selection of the latest in river fashions and gear. Video gift certificates are also available. So make somebody happy twice! Once when you give it and once when they enjoy the thrills and fun of a Whitewater Adventure in West Virginia! Call today
1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) for Rivers Gift Certificates!
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Can I save money?
There are sure-fire ways to save money, and you'll never meet a hillbilly that didn't like to "dicker." Rivers Whitewater Resort's Calendar of Special Prices and Special Events are some of the best bang for your weekend bucks. Our Weekday trips are always the best bargain on both the New and Gauley River Trips. In addition, Rivers runs some mid-week specials that allow almost anyone to enjoy Whitewater Rafting. Trips cost less prior to Mid-May and after Mid-October. Groups receive discounts based on group size and anyone who rafts two consecutive days receives a discount. So don't let the price keep you from the fun, call today to take advantage of Whitewater Savings!
1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483)
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RIVER RELATED
Who can raft?
Almost anyone from 6 to 86 can find whitewater fun on both the New and Gauley Rivers. No experience is necessary on the milder sections of both rivers. Of course there are plenty of thrills for the "adrenalin junkies" in the wilder sections of the New and the World Famous Gauley River. For the most fun, start mild while building your skill level then try the bigger, wilder rapids. A multi-day trip lets you build your confidence and river ability each day. Although being able to swim is helpful, many non-swimmers raft with Rivers each year since each guest is given all necessary safety equipment: a Coast Guard approved Type V Life Jacket (designed to float an unconscious person upright) Paddle and Helmet. Handicapped folks often raft with Rivers. We love to share the beauty and excitement of Rivers and Southern West Virginia with as many people as possible. We do our best to accommodate everyone. Just call our Adventure Travel Specialists to help make arrangements for any special needs you may have.
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What does a whitewater raft trip include?
All Rivers Whitewater Resort One-Day trips include:
- Complimentary morning Coffee and Muffins.
- Delicious Riverside Lunch Buffet
- Each lunch is a feast of fresh breads, a variety of meats and cheeses, condiments and vegetable and an array of home made salads, fresh fruits, ample desserts, ice water and drink mixes.
- Complimentary Beverages
After your river trip, the videotape that was made by our professional video kayakers will be shown in the World Famous Red Dog River Saloon. Complimentary beverages are served while you are enjoying your Whitewater Rafting Adventure Video. We also supply transportation to and from Rivers Basecamp Complex, lifejacket, paddle and helmet
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What do the river classifications mean?
Rapids and rivers are subjectively rated Class I through Class VI. These ratings are dependent on volume of water, geography of the rapid and any downstream dangers and ease of recovery. In general the following classifications are appropriate:
• CLASS I-II: Mild/Easy
• CLASS III-IV: Very Major Rapid
• CLASS V-VI: Very Difficult
Rivers runs Whitewater Rafting Trips on CLASS I-V+ rated New and Gauley Rivers of South Central West Virginia. Call 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) and our Adventure Travel Specialists will help you determine the Whitewater Rafting Adventure that is just right for you.
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When is the best time to raft?
Every season brings its own special excitement to the rivers of West Virginia. Spring rains generally bring high water to the New and Gauley River Basins, which bring the ultimate in Big Water thrills and chills. The water and air temperature is usually lower and wetsuits are welcome apparel. Historical nature tours to the Old Coal Mining Ghost Towns are also more popular in the spring because of tremendous beauty of the blooming mountain foliage in the New River Gorge National Park. Summer brings sunny days and warm nights to spend on overnights along the river. Water levels are nearer normal and the water temperature is 70°. Summertime river trips are a great outing for the whole family. You can look forward to a fun-filled, non-stop weekend summer time adventure at Rivers Whitewater Resort. Fall brings some of the most exhilarating whitewater in the world with the release of the Summersville Lake and the World Class challenges of the Gauley River. As the beautiful fall foliage peaks with color raft trips on both the New and Gauley Rivers are not only exciting, but the mountains are breathtakingly beautiful. Not much can match the beauty of Southern West Virginia as seen from a raft on the New or Gauley River. It's a one-of-a-kind experience! Some of our best discounts can be taken advantage of during the early spring and late fall. Call 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) for more information.
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Can you accommodate groups?
The only thing more fun than whitewater rafting is whitewater rafting with your family and friends. We love big water, big fun and big groups. Rivers takes great pride in making group accommodations. We often make our river adventure trips classrooms for learning executive levels skills seminars or team-building retreats. Church and Youth Groups find weekdays at Rivers Whitewater Center the best time to enjoy the benefits of no crowds, less expensive trips and camping and GROUP DISCOUNTS TOO!
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Do you have group discounts?
Rivers Group Rates are based on group size, trip date and availability. Rivers has put together an Adventure Package especially for Scouts, Church and Youth Groups. This rafting/camping package is the best bargain in the Whitewater Industry. Call a Rivers Adventure Travel Specialist at 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483) and discuss your group's whitewater plans. Rivers will steer you to your best group prices and help you plan your trip from arrival to departure.
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How long is the rafting trip?
Most of Rivers Whitewater Rafting trips are about 6 1/2 to 8 hours round trip from the Rivers basecamp complex. Fishing trips and overnight excursions are the exception. These times are approximate and depend on water levels, weather conditions, other river trips and the pace you enjoy the most. SEE YOU ON THE RIVER!
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Will our raft be guided?
All Rivers trips are guided. Each of our rafts has a fully trained, professional guide. Fishing trips are guided with a 1 guide to 2 guest ratio. An independent kayaking safety and whitewater guide accompanies ducky trips on both the New and Gauley Rivers. All guides are qualified in First Aid and CPR. Many have advanced medical skills (EMT, Wilderness First Responder, etc.) All are extensively trained in rescue procedures from difficult terrain or rivers.
SAFETY IS OUR #1 PRIORITY!
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Can I request a guide?
Yes. We will do our best to accommodate your requests, but remember, your favorite Rivers guide may have already be requested or have other commitments that prevent us from making a guarantee. Call early to increase the chance that your favorite guide will be available for your trip.
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Safety Issues
Is rafting safe?
Rivers Whitewater Resort has an excellent safety record, but whitewater rafting does have inherent risk. Our guides meet, or exceed, all West Virginia Department of Natural Resources Safety Standards and specific First Aid and CPR Training. Many Rivers staff members have advanced Wilderness First Responder and River Rescue Training. We also have EMTs, LPNs, RNs and other individuals with advanced medical training on our staff. Our raft trips pack first aid kits, river rescue equipment and appropriate emergency communication devices. PFDs must be worn at all times on the river and helmets are required in advanced whitewater. You can help enhance your safety by being in good shape. Alcohol and controlled substances are not permitted on the river. Guests with medical conditions should alert the Trip Leader. Pregnant women should not go on the river unless your doctor approves. Guests suffering from asthma should be aware that cold water can be a severe hindrance to their breathing. Lunch spots occasionally draw bees and any who is allergic should bring their medication and inform the Trip Leader. Safety procedures are explained in detail in a video will be shown before departure and safe rafting guidelines are clarified before any serious whitewater is encountered. It is the responsibility of every rafter to adhere to these safety procedures. See West Virginia Whitewater Responsibility Act.
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Will we have to sign a waiver?
Yes. Every Rivers guest will be required to sign a waiver of liability before going on a raft trip. You can download a copy of the liability card or you can request a copy by calling Rivers at 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483). You should read the waiver carefully. The trip leader can explain any part you do not understand. Minors must sign their own waivers but will not be allowed to raft without the permission and signature of their parent/guardian. Please do not expect the church, youth group leader or Scout Master to sign in the parents' absence. A parent or legal guardian MUST sign the waiver or minors will not be permitted to raft. Waivers can be sent prior to your trip if you request them from your Rivers reservation specialist or you can download the liability card from our website. Have a FUN and SAFE Adventure!
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Will you have on-river communication?
Rivers' state of the art radio communications system keeps us in almost total contact with all our raft trips as well as all buses and shuttle vehicles. In spite of the fact that all our trips carry radios, there are some isolated sections of the river gorges we run that do not permit reliable communications. But this is seldom a problem since we are aware of these areas
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What if I have a medical condition?
When making your reservation, please be sure to inform the Rivers Adventure Travel Specialist of any medical condition, physical disability or allergy that may require special attention or accommodations. Obtain your physician's written approval to raft if you have special medical conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, pregnancy, epilepsy, heart condition, bee sting allergy, etc. While we can accommodate most conditions, it is always best to know prior to rafting and be prepared for any contingency. If you have questions about particular conditions please call a Rivers Adventure Travel Specialist at 1-800-TRY RIVERS (800-879-7483). See you on the river!
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What if I am pregnant?
We have, and can take pregnant women on the river, but only under advice from your doctor. The milder sections of the river should not be a problem for women in the early stages of their pregnancy. Women in the advanced stages of pregnancy should not even consider whitewater rafting. Consider that you won't always be pregnant, but the river will always be there. At Rivers we think moms are special!
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What if I can't swim?
While it is helpful to be able to swim, it is not required. Many of Rivers guest can't swim, but everyone on a whitewater trip is required to wear a Type V Personal Floatation Device (PFD). These US Coast Guard approved PFDs are designed to be able to float an unconscious person upright. The only folks who should not come are those people with an inherent fear of water. A whitewater raft trip is no place to face your fear of water. Everyone else will love it! Everybody gets wet & wild at Rivers!
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Are you licensed by the state of West Virginia?
Yes. Rivers has multiple licenses from the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources for our river activities, including rafting on all West Virginia rivers, as well as, fishing and hunting outfitters licenses. The State of West Virginia also licenses our Welcome Center, Campstore, and of course the World Famous Red Dog River Saloon. Fayette County inspects and licenses our kitchens and food preparation facilities and all our showerhouse and restroom facilities. The National Park Service also issues permits for our climbing, rappelling, horseback and mountain biking programs.
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