Three days of supervised whitewater learning for kids ages 8–13, based at Lion's Park in Red Lodge. Paddle Camp 2026 blends paddling technique, rescue basics, games and nature lessons for a practical summer introduction to river skills.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable being active outdoors, able to swim or enter water, and ready for several hours of movement each day.
Wildlife
History
Red Lodge sits beneath the Beartooth Mountains, a granite-dominated range accessed by the scenic Beartooth Highway completed in the 1930s, and the town has a history as a regional mining and rail service center.
Conservation
The program emphasizes Leave No Trace river etiquette and minimizes bank impact; guides manage group size and routes to protect riparian habitat and spawning areas.
Wild River Expeditions
Wild River Expeditions is an outfitter based in Roberts, Montana, specializing in day rafting trips on the Yellowstone River near Red Lodge. The company offers the Yellowstone River Raft Tour, a full-day rafting experience that departs from the Holmgren fishing access and runs through scenic sections of the Yellowstone River. The tour is described as suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, and includes stretches of river with engaging rapids and wide mountain views.
Wild River Expeditions focuses on providing a memorable outdoor adventure that showcases the natural landscape around Red Lodge and Roberts, Montana. The Yellowstone River Raft Tour accommodates participants looking for a single-day outdoor activity that combines scenic float sections and action where rapids occur. Meeting and launch take place at Holmgren fishing access, a local access point on the river used for river trips in the area.
The business was featured on The Adventure Collective, which lists regional outfitters and experiences. That feature supports visibility for Wild River Expeditions among travelers seeking Yellowstone River rafting near Red Lodge.
Interested guests should verify trip details, availability, and any required reservations or gear before booking. Trip timing, age guidelines, and recommended equipment are listed with the Adventure Collective listing or available by contacting the outfitter directly for current information. Advance reservations are advised during peak season.
Location
Roberts, Montana
Based in Roberts, Montana
Trip Length
Day trips
Single-day Yellowstone rafting trips
Launch Site
Holmgren access
Launches at Holmgren fishing access
Skill Level
All levels
Beginners and experienced rafters welcome
Choose Wild River Expeditions for a day trip launching from Holmgren fishing access — check availability and reserve a spot for a Yellowstone River adventure.
Bring a swim kit
Pack swimwear, a quick-dry shirt and a small towel—the days involve repeated paddling and likely swims.
Label personal items
Mark sunscreen, water bottle and clothing; simple lost-and-found makes days easier for kids.
Expect variable flow
River levels can change; dress in layers and be ready for cool mornings by the water.
Teach basic swim comfort beforehand
Children who can enter and move in water confidently adapt to paddling instruction faster.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Even if provided, a well fitted PFD is the core safety item and some kids prefer their own for comfort.
Quick-dry layers and swimwear
Layers let kids warm up between river sessions and dry quickly after getting wet.
summer
Water shoes with toe protection
Secure footwear protects feet on gravel launches and provides traction in boats.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sun hoodie)
Midday sun and reflective water increase UV exposure; long sleeves and SPF are a must.
summer