Adventure Collective
null - Glenwood Springs

Guided Colorado River Overnight Rafting Adventure - Rancho Camping

Bondmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–3 days

Fitness Level

Participants should have moderate fitness levels capable of paddling and camping without issue.

Overview

Discover the thrill of whitewater rafting combined with overnight camping on the Colorado River. This guided adventure in Bond offers stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and a peaceful night under the stars.

Silverthorne, Colorado

Guided Colorado River Overnight Rafting Adventure - Rancho Camping

A 2 day & 1 night river trip utilizing a more established style of campground

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Guided Colorado River Overnight Rafting Adventure  -  Rancho Camping photo 1

About This Adventure

Saturday trips are only $450 per person!##

Singles and small groups can enjoy the lowest per-person price of $450 on Saturday/Sunday trips, but we need to collect at least 5 participants to run the trip. Sign up and tell your friends, or make new ones!

This overnight rafting experience utilizes a more established campground at a riverside community called Rancho del Rio. For those looking for a bit of extra comfort and additional amenities, Rancho Del Rio offers a small general store and a port-a-potty. It’s also a great choice for those who might not be quite ready for backcountry style camping, or if you prefer your vehicle and extra gear nearby. This riverside campground retreat is the perfect way to end a day of exploration and adventure.**

There’s nothing quite like spending time with friends and family on the river—it's our all-time favorite way to enjoy the great outdoors. Our fully-guided, all-inclusive rafting and camping adventure takes you on the scenic Upper Colorado River, between Pumphouse and State Bridge. This unforgettable trip includes two full days of rafting and exploration, followed by an unforgettable night of camping at the picturesque Rancho Del Rio Campground. All meals will be prepared by your expert river guides, so you can focus on enjoying every moment.

As you raft through this stunning section of the Colorado River, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of meadows, valleys, sprawling ranch lands, and towering canyon walls. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like bald eagles, deer, beavers, and bighorn sheep—there’s always something new to discover.

The Upper Colorado River offers a thrilling but gentle rafting experience, with mild Class I-II rapids and occasional Class III rapids during higher water flows. This adventure is perfect for families, as there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Camping at Rancho Del Rio After a day of paddling, you'll return to the rustic charm of Rancho Del Rio Campground, a hidden gem nestled along the river's edge. Tucked into a peaceful valley near our boathouse, this laid-back spot is the ideal place to relax and unwind after a day of adventure. Set up camp, enjoy a cozy campfire, and enjoy a delicious meal as the river flows nearby.

Includes: guide, river shuttle, campsite in the campgrounds, and four tasty riverbank meals

Two-Day Itinerary


Day 1

  • Meet at the Rancho del Rio boathouse
  • Gear up & meet your guide
  • Shuttle ride to Pumphouse on the Upper Colorado River
  • River time and Rapids
  • Tasty river bank lunch served by your guide
  • More river time
  • Arrive at your camp at the Rancho Del Rio Campground
  • Free time for reading, fishing, games, and more
  • Riverside dinner prepared by your guides
  • Camp under the stars by the Wild and Scenic Colorado River

Day 2

  • Rise & shine to a hot, gourmet breakfast
  • River time & a visit to the endearing Rancho Del Rio
  • Tasty river bank lunch served by your guides
  • River time & rapids
  • Take out at State Bridge
  • Shuttle back to the Boathouse

Trip Package Includes

  • CRC professional rafting guides
  • All safety and rafting equipment and camping gear
  • Transportation from designated meeting place to the put-in and from take-out
  • A safe, fun, and educational experience.
  • Camp based lodging
  • Four tasty riverbank meals

Trip Package Does Not Include

  • Clothing (See recommended gear below)
  • Insurance (Trip or Rescue)
  • Guide Gratuity

Area Info


Upper Colorado River, Grand County, Colorado

This section of the Colorado River offers scenic views including meadows, valleys, rolling ranch lands, steep canyon walls, and lots of wildlife. Upper Colorado River Rafting provides mild Class I-II rapids and occasional Class III rapids at higher water flow. The Colorado River is our favorite family friendly rafting trip.

Beginning as snowmelt high in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Colorado Rockies give birth to the legendary Colorado River. Downstream of the national park, the river character begins to intensify through the famed and Class 5 “Gore Canyon,” and then below, the river gentles. This is where our Colorado River Rafting experiences begin, with a mild introduction to white water rafting for families with kids and grandparents, and anyone looking for a true Colorado vacation.

About Your Guides

Colorado Adventure Guides and Colorado Rafting Company, based in Silverthorne, CO, deliver four-seasons of outdoor adventure and education. With operations in seven USFS and BLM ranger districts, we serve a dynamic and growing population of outdoor enthusiasts spanning Summit and Eagle Counties to the Denver Front Range. Our all-season, guided operations include:

  • Rock Climbing
  • Mountaineering
  • Hiking/Peak Accents
  • Mountain Biking
  • Whitewater Rafting/SUPing
  • Backcountry Skiing
  • Backcountry Splitboarding
  • Snowshoeing
  • Ice Climbing
  • AIARE Snow Safety

We have been providing incredible experiences to visitors of Summit County and surrounding areas for over 20 years. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned expert, let us take you on your next unforgettable outdoor adventure!

FAQs


Do I need any prior training to participate in this course?

No prior training or experience is necessary to sign up for this trip.

Should We Tip Our Guide?

Your guide/instructors work hard before, during, and after your course to provide you with a great experience, and while not expected, gratuities are always highly appreciated. If you had a safe, educational, and fun experience, gratuities typically range from 15-20%.

When Do White Water Trips Start in Colorado?

This depends on what you’re interested in. If big, exciting water is what your group is looking for, then high-water season is the best time. Mid-June to early July is traditionally the high-water season. When rivers run at their peak, it can make for a big ride. Keep in mind some sections may close due to high water conditions. Most people enjoy the normal runs in May then late July through September. Water levels and weather are very unpredictable, so book a date that best suits the group and be prepared for the unexpected. There really is no bad time to go white water rafting in Colorado.

What To Wear Rafting/SUPing/Kayaking in Colorado?

Avoid cotton clothing, as it tends to get wet and stay wet – not to mention taking valuable warmth from your body’s surface. For rafting and other activities your best bet would be materials such as wool, polypro, fleece, micro fleece, polyester, waterproof jackets, and any other outdoor material that dries fast. Secure footwear such as a strap sandals, water shoes, or tennis shoes. NO CROCS or FLIP FLOPS. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are included with all rafting adventures. Additional sun protection such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also highly recommended. If you have any questions please give us a call and we can give you information so that you know what to expect and can plan accordingly.

What Should We Bring on a Rafting/SUPing/Kayaking Trip?

Please see our equipment lists for activity specific gear. For the overnight river camping trips the camping gear is included but make sure to bring your personal toiletry and clothes to wear at camp. Bring a change of dry clothes to leave in your car. Our basecamps offer changing rooms so you can be comfortable after your Colorado raft adventure. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sunglasses straps, and hats that protect from the sun. Bring water. Remember, you’re in the Colorado Rockies, and it’s important to stay hydrated!

Is Whitewater Rafting/SUPing/Kayaking Dangerous?

All our guides go through extensive training, basic first aid, CPR, and all river guides are certified by the state of Colorado. Rafting is an adventure sport and involves a degree of risk on the part of the participant. Although we take precautions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip, we cannot be responsible for lost or damaged articles and/or personal injury. It is important for the group to choose a trip within their entire group’s limits. Colorado Rafting Company/Colorado Adventure Guides is committed to the safety of our guests. Due to the inherently dangerous nature of some outdoor recreation activities in the backcountry, all participants are required to acknowledge these risks by reading and signing a liability waiver prior to trip departure and making sure your guides are aware of any pertinent medical information. All participants under the age of 18 must have a liability waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Is there a minimum age required for this trip?

We typically accept participants 5 years or older, if they are accompanied by a legal guardian. You must be 18 years or older to attend a trip on your own.

Adventure Tips

Wear quick-drying clothing

Opt for moisture-wicking gear to stay comfortable during both rafting and camping activities.

Bring waterproof essentials

Ensure your camera, phone, and valuables are protected in waterproof cases or bags.

Pack layered clothing

Temperatures can vary; bringing layers ensures you're prepared for warm days and cooler nights.

Respect wildlife and environment

Maintain a safe distance from animals and follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the area.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • River otters

History

The Colorado River has been a vital waterway for centuries, shaping the landscape and supporting Native American communities.

Conservation

The trip emphasizes Leave No Trace principles, and guides work to minimize environmental impact and preserve the area's beauty.

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Adventure Hotspots in Glenwood Springs

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Personal Waterproof Dry Bag

Essential

Keeps your personal items dry during river sections and outdoor pursuits.

Layered Clothing System

Essential

Allows you to adapt to changing temperatures both on the river and at camp.

spring|summer|fall|winter specific

Sturdy Water Shoes

Essential

Provides grip and protection during rafting and exploring rocky riverbanks.

Headlamp or Flashlight

Essential

Ensures visibility at night during camp setup or night-time activities.