Upper Klamath Multiday Day Camp

Raft through the “West’s Best” Whitewater

We are very excited about this trip!  Without the dams, we can move further downriver and make the logistics work in an incredible 2 and 3 day river trip.  This will require smaller, lighter boats with 4 paddlers maximum.  We have a seasonal camp set up and there will be lots to do there so trips will try to get in early for appetizers and relaxation.

The Upper Klamath River area is full of history of our forefathers and the native Indigenous peoples. Many log structures and artifacts are still present. There is an abundance of wildlife with frequent sightings of the majestic bald eagle, flocks of wild geese, and deer foraging the hillsides. Add to this the paralleling Oregon/California wagon and stagecoach trail, the hot spring resort ghost town of Beswick, riverside caves, high-rising multi-colored bluffs, and groves of pine, cedar, and juniper, laced together with occasional meadows shaded by tan oak and alder trees. This 26-33 mile stretch of the Upper Klamath River is, without a doubt, the “WEST’S BEST” whitewater adventure from March through October.

Camping options on the Upper Klamath:

2 Days/1 Night

Day 1 will be from Spring Island downriver to Frain Ranch where we will have lunch.  After lunch, the bigger whitewater starts and camp will be the next stop.  Our seasonal camp is already up and very extravagant.  Lots of activities, hammocks, shady beach, and gourmet meals.  Large tents with cots and 3 inch sleeping pads along with linen and pillows!  Hors d’oeuvres and games will be set up with ice cold beverages.  A locally sourced, “foodie” dinner that night followed by a large filling breakfast the next morning.  Day 2 will start early to finish the Hell’s Corner section and move into the old Copco Reservoir footprint now called Kikaceki Valley where we will have lunch.  This will be an opportunity to see the river heal itself year after year.  We will finish the day through the class 4+ Kikaceki Canyon.  54 Rapids total!  An unforgettable experience.

3 Days/2 Nights

Our three day trip will include all of the Hells Corner gorge putting in at Spring Island, the newly uncovered class 4 stretch Kikaceki Canyon, and a beautiful class 2-3 stretch through the former Iron gate reservoir now called the Kucascas Valley.  This trip you will get to experience everything!  The first night is a stay at our seasonal camp described in the 2 day trip.  Night two will be at the Quail House at the top of Kikaceki Valley.  Day three is 15 miles through the dam removal footprint including Kikaceki Valley, Kikaceki Canyon and Kucascas Valley.  Locally sourced, gourmet meals throughout.  Inflatable kayaking available when the water and rapids allow on the last day. Guaranteed smiles for days!

Details:

• Ages 12+, all must be in reasonable good health, able to paddle, smile and get some major splashes to the face!
• All meals provided
• 4-6 people per boat depending on water level
• Water temp 65-74 degrees F.
• All transportation provided, we pick up and drop off in Ashland.
• 1 hour 20 minute drive from Ashland (multiple pick up locations available; North, South and and Downtown)
• Pick up time: 9am
• Drop off time: 5pm

IN RECENT YEARS, the Upper Klamath has been applauded by several national magazines and tour guides as “one of the ultimate whitewater trips in the country today — a must do for all whitewater enthusiasts.”

For some more information on the Upper Klamath and dam removal process take a look at some recent coverage:
– JPR interview with owner Bart
– NPR interviews
– Statesman Journal Podcast.
– News 10
– Last Ride in Hells Corner: Rafters savor final season on Upper Klamath before dam removal

*** Warning: The Upper Klamath has been known to cause serious whitewater addiction.