Kernville Rapid Run

Class II & III+ fun on this famous Kern River rafting trip

YOUR Kernville RAFTING EXPERIENCE

The Kern River Classic rafting trip

At just over three hours long, this affordable and famous trip is a quick way to experience the Kern River. This is one of the most popular river trips on the Kern as you get to experience the rapids and you’re close to town.

An inside look:

Kernville Rapid Run Photo Gallery

Photos of this river rafting experience.

Quick Facts

Trip Meeting Place:
6602 Wofford Blvd, Wofford Heights, CA 93285.

Trip meeting time: 10:00 AM

Minimum Age: 10 years old until July 15, then 8 years old.


Trip Cost

$99 / person

Does not include 6% government and service fee

View cancellation policy


At a Glance

Approximately 4 miles of rafting.

Rapids are Class I, II & III.

Lunch is not included.

This trip is perfect for those brand new to rafting.


2023 Kernville rapid run

A sample of what the Kern River has to offer

River Rafting Itinerary

The Kernville Rapid Run rafting trip starts just north of Kernville and winds its way through town, ending in downtown Kernville. We’ll tackle rapids such as Little Momma, Big Daddy, Straight Shot, Freight Train and end with the famous Ewing’s Rapid right before takeout. At normal flows, we’ll then load up back on the shuttle vehicle and do the section again giving us a total of nearly four river miles. At higher flows, we’ll continue the trip and end in Lake Isabella.

Kernville Rapid Run FAQs

With the historic rainfall we have experienced in California this season, we are implementing our Big Water Protocol, which is designed to help us prioritize safety when we experience periods of exceptionally high water. For the Kernville Rapid Run, we are raising the minimum age to 10 years old on all new reservations until July 15. After July 15, the minimum age will return to 8 years old.

Is your party size fewer than 4? Please call us and we will assist you with your reservation: 760-376-3370. Or send a message with your preferred date and group size.

This trip is well-matched for those that have never been rafting before. If you are nervous about high water, then we suggest looking later in the season after the high water peak, in July or August.

There are many Kern river camping options. The Lake Isabella KOA, Rivernook, Camp James, and Camp Frandy are popular campgrounds for families.

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