Lower Kern River Whitewater Rafting

Guided

Duration: 2 hours

Los Angeles • Bakersfield

Features

Beginner Friendly

Kid Friendly

Shuttle Included

Instant Book

Locally Owned

$65 Rafter | Saturday + Sunday

(Ages 8 and up)

$60 Group Price (12-29 Rafters)

(This group price applies to groups of 12 or more rafters. Entire group of 12+ must be under one reservation. No split payments.)

$55 Group Price (30+ Rafters)

(This group price applies to groups of 30 or more rafters. Entire group of 30+ must be under one reservation. No split payments.)

Description

"The Blaster" Signature Kern River Beginner Rafting Trip

Get ready for an unforgettable ride on the Kern River’s most playful and scenic stretch! This 3.5-mile river rafting trip kicks off at the mouth of the Kern Canyon, where the river winds its way through rock formations and rolling foothills before reaching Lake Ming in Bakersfield, CA. This is a perfect first-time whitewater rafting trip near Los Angeles!

Perfect for families, first-timers, and thrill-seekers alike, this trip delivers the perfect balance of fun and relaxation. You'll take on splashy Class II-III rapids that provide just the right amount of excitement, followed by refreshing swimming holes where you can float, swim, and soak in the scenery. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll enjoy stress-free rafting at its finest—just pure fun, great company, and nonstop smiles.

No need to hesitate—this is the perfect adventure for everyone! Whether you're looking for a quick adrenaline rush or just a fun way to cool off, this trip is guaranteed to be a highlight of your summer.

Duration

2 Hours (trip duration may vary due to river flow)

Departures:

Monday - Friday: 10am & 1pm
Saturdays: 10am, 1pm & 3:30pm

Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your trip departure time to give yourself time to check in and get settled before hopping on the bus.

Location / Where to Meet

River's End Rafting & Adventure Co

15701 HWY 178
Bakersfield, CA 93306

Average Travel Times

15 minutes- Downtown Bakersfield
1.5 Hours- Antelope Valley
2 hours- Los Angeles
2 hours- Fresno
2.5 hours- Santa Barbara
4 hours- San Diego

Ages & Requirements

Ages 8+ (May increase to 12 during high water season)

What's Included

All equipment, safety gear, and transportation to and from our rafting center is included in your rafting price. No hidden fees.

Not Included

Photos
Gratuity

We have awesome souvenir photos available for purchase, as well as lots of fun things to buy in our retail shop. Tips for your guide are also always appreciated!

What to Bring / Wear

Towel for drying off
Dry change of clothes
Plastic bag for wet clothes
A water bottle
Sunscreen
Swimsuit, Shorts, Tanks, T-shirts (non-cotton)
Water Shoes (or shoes that will not fall off)
Sunglasses with retaining strap
Adventure Hats, ideally with a tether

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY River's End Rafting & Adventure Company

FAQs

Do I need to wear a helmet?

We do not require helmets for rafting but they are available upon request at no charge.

Can I bring my own Life Jacket?

No, you must wear the PFD we provide.

Do you have a weight limit?

We do not have a weight limit. As long as you fit into our life jacket then you will be fine. We have never had to turn anyone away for weight issues.

Do I need a reservation?

Yes. Our trips fill up quickly, and most of our weekends completely sell out.

What is the cheapest day to raft?

Tuesdays-Thursdays are the cheapest days to raft and the least busy!

Do you take photos of our trip?

We have a professional photographer on site who will take photos of your adventure. They will be available to view and purchase immediately after your rafting trip and come on a USB that looks just like your raft!

What should I do with my car keys during the trip?

Never take your car keys on the river. They will get lost. We provide and safe and secure location for your car keys at check-in.

Is there a minimum number of guests?

Our policy requires a minimum of 6 riders per trip. While we allow fewer riders to book a specific trip and hope that we will reach our minimum of 6 riders, there is no guarantee. In the event that a trip does not meet the required minimum of 6 riders, RER will contact you 24 hours before your reservation with the option to reschedule or receive a refund for your trip.

What if it's raining?

We raft rain or shine! We do not issue refunds in the case of inclement weather (warm summer rain is super fun!)

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made more than 15 days prior to the trip date will be refunded less a 20% service charge. Cancellations made within 15 or fewer days of the trip date will not be refunded.

Changes to Reservations

Changes can not be made to a reservation within 48 hours of trip departure. A $10 per person fee will be applied to reservation date changes made less than 15 days prior to the trip date. Reservation changes will not be made to trips departing within 48 hours. Date changes must be within the current rafting season.

Late Arrivals

RER attempts to leave as on time as possible to stay on schedule for the day, as well as to accommodate our guests who do arrive on time. RER does not issue refunds for guests who miss their trip departure.

Availability

May 2025

Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa

Reviews

Location

Address

15701 HWY 178

Bakersfield, CA, 93306

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