Kids Summer Rafting in Bend, Oregon

Experience the excitement of summer rafting for kids in Bend, Oregon with Bend Backcountry! Our full- or half-day guided trips on the McKenzie or Deschutes Rivers are designed specifically for families and children. With gentle rapids, calm river stretches, and expert guides trained in child safety, kids can enjoy adventure, learn river skills, and explore Oregon’s stunning rivers in a safe and fun environment.

Summer is the perfect season for kids rafting, with warm weather, longer daylight hours, and fully accessible river conditions. Whether it’s your child’s first time on a raft or your family wants a memorable outdoor adventure together, our trips provide excitement, safety, and lasting memories.

The Experience

Kids summer rafting is all about balancing fun and safety while introducing children to river adventure. Guided trips include floating calm sections, navigating gentle rapids, and learning basic paddling and teamwork skills.

Highlights of the summer rafting experience for kids include:

• Gentle river rapids: Exciting enough to thrill children without being intimidating

• Calm stretches: Perfect for sightseeing, spotting wildlife, and learning about the river

• Scenic views: Forested riverbanks, waterfalls, and wildlife provide a natural classroom

• Guided instruction: Certified guides teach paddling techniques, river safety, and teamwork

Our guides create engaging trips for children, encouraging exploration, curiosity, and enjoyment while prioritizing safety. Parents can relax knowing their kids are in capable hands, with trips designed to be educational, adventurous, and unforgettable.

Who It’s For

Kids summer rafting trips are ideal for:

• Children of all ages (with age-appropriate routes and supervision)

• Families looking for safe and fun outdoor activities

• Beginners or first-time rafters

• Groups celebrating birthdays, school outings, or family adventures

Each trip is tailored to the group’s ages, abilities, and preferences. Guides adjust pacing and provide personal attention to ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for all participants. Summer rafting is an ideal way for children to build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy Oregon’s rivers in a safe setting.

Safety & Guides

Safety is the highest priority on all kids summer rafting trips. Each trip includes:

• Life vests and helmets for all participants

• Safety briefings covering proper seating, paddling techniques, and emergency procedures

• Certified guides trained in river safety, child supervision, and first aid

• Route selection tailored to age, ability, and comfort level

Guides continuously monitor river conditions and adjust the trip’s pace to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Small group sizes allow for individual attention, giving parents peace of mind while kids experience adventure safely.

Rivers & Options

Bend Backcountry offers trips on two of Central Oregon’s most family-friendly rivers:

McKenzie River:

• Calm sections and gentle rapids perfect for younger children

• Scenic forested banks with opportunities to spot wildlife

• Half-day and full-day options for flexibility

Deschutes River:

• Slightly more adventurous sections for older kids or families seeking a bit more excitement

• Scenic canyon views and natural overlooks

• Half-day and full-day options with flexible routes

Half-day trips provide a fun and manageable introduction to rafting for younger children or families with limited time. Full-day trips include extra river exploration, sightseeing, and lunch breaks, giving kids a complete summer river experience. Guides design each route to maximize safety, fun, and memorable experiences for children and families.

Seasonal Tips for Summer Rafting

Summer is the prime season for kids rafting in Bend:

• Warm temperatures: Comfortable conditions for floating, paddling, and exploring

• Long daylight hours: Allows for longer trips and flexible scheduling

• Fully accessible rivers: Calm stretches and gentle rapids make it ideal for kids and beginners

• Scenic summer landscapes: Pine forests, flowing rivers, and wildlife sightings create a beautiful backdrop for adventure

Summer rafting trips are also excellent for introducing children to outdoor skills, teamwork, and environmental appreciation. Guides incorporate educational elements about the river, wildlife, and nature while keeping the adventure fun and engaging.

What to Bring

To ensure a safe and enjoyable kids rafting adventure, bring:

• Quick-dry clothing suitable for river activities

• Closed-toe shoes that can get wet

• Sunscreen and a hat for sun protection

• Towel and a change of clothes for after rafting

• Water and snacks for energy during the trip

All necessary safety gear, including life vests and helmets, is provided by Bend Backcountry. Parents and children can focus entirely on the adventure, knowing that guides are managing safety, logistics, and route planning.

FAQs

Q: What ages can participate?
A: Trips are designed for children as young as 4 years old, with specific routes chosen for age and ability.

Q: Do kids need prior rafting experience?
A: No prior experience is required. Guides provide instruction and supervision for beginners.

Q: Can we book private trips?
A: Yes! Private trips are available for families, groups, or special occasions like birthdays.

Q: How long is a full-day kids rafting trip?
A: Full-day trips usually last 5–6 hours, including lunch and river breaks.

Q: What if it rains or the river is cold?
A: Trips run in light rain. Guides provide clothing recommendations and may reschedule for severe weather to ensure safety.

Q: Are guides certified?
A: Yes! All guides are trained and certified in river safety, first aid, and child supervision.

Book Your Kids Summer Rafting Adventure Today

Bring your family to Bend for a safe, fun, and unforgettable summer rafting experience. Choose a full-day or half-day trip on the McKenzie or Deschutes Rivers and let Bend Backcountry’s certified guides lead your children on an adventure they’ll never forget.

Learn more on our FAQ page and book your kids summer rafting trip today—summer fun, adventure, and safety await on Bend’s rivers!