Junior Guides Raft Camp

Junior Guides Raft Camp offers rafting programs for children and teens, including Ducks for ages 6-9 and Otters for ages 10-16. Ducks includes learning about moving water, the environment and conservation, singing songs, and practicing teamwork. Otters includes learning to negotiate class III rapids, guide the boat, and use their voice as leaders.

Programs

• Ducks — 6-9 · $550 · For the youngest campers; learn about moving water, environment and conservation, sing songs, and practice teamwork.
• Otters — 10-16 · $550 · Older, more experienced campers; learn to negotiate class III rapids, guide the boat, and use their voice as leaders.
• Ospreys — 15-18 · $1,500 · Advanced program for experienced junior rafters; application and teacher recommendation required.
• Junior Kayakers — 10-18 · Junior Kayaker Camp designed for beginner to intermediate paddlers; the source text is truncated before details are complete.
• Camp Counselors — 15-20
• Internships 'Assistant AB Boatman' — 17-20

At a glance

• Ages: 6–18 years old
• Price range: $550–$1,500
• General schedule: Junior Guides is a three-day day camp for kids ages 6-16. Programs typically run from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM each day, though this may vary depending on the camper's age and group. The formal on-river program is about 8 hours. Overnight camping is optional. For Ospreys, camp is six days in length total, with at least five days rafting and some travel time.

About the provider

Junior Guides launched in 2010 and is in its 16th year in operation. The source states that it is a nonprofit and a California 501c3 non-profit. Its mission statement is adventure, teamwork, and leadership.

Parents do not need to accompany campers in Ospreys, though a limited number of vetted parent chaperones are included. Ospreys requires an application and a teacher recommendation. Earthtrek does not allow bikes, scooters, or pets. Payment for overnight camping is not included in tuition/rafting fees.

Last updated September 27, 2026.