Wow! What an amazing find. This place totally exceeded my expectations. From the moment we walked in, the staff was super friendly and attentive. read more

So this trip was definitely a spontaneous one - we planned it on Monday to go Saturday (today) and I am saying "spontaneous" because its the summer time and usually these kind of activities are full. Well that was the case for many of these tours. However, I stumbled across Kern River Tours and decided to give them a call. Luckily, they had open spots for us and even gave us a discount for being a first timer! We all saved almost $10!!! The lady over the phone for reservations was super friendly and nice. Since it was our first time, I had a lot, I mean A LOT of questions and she was just so helpful and patient throughout the whole reservation process. It was a quick over the phone reservation and the confirmation email came right away after I booked it. The email is very detailed with the trip and my order but also a list of items I should bring to the trip. It was very informative! Now to the activity. We came and we were instantly greeted by the friendly staff and even if we were a group of 7, after determining that it was safe for all of us on one raft, they let us all be in one which was awesome! Our leader Matt was very experienced and provided us the most smooth yet exciting experience during our II & III Express trip. We had a few fun splashes and Matt did a phenomenal job leading the group. They also had soft drinks ready for us at the bus and also watermelons at the shop upon our return! Awesome customer service! We definitely remembered to tip our team leader. And the best part was that I did not feel pressured to do so which a-lot of these activity places do - pressure you to tip but Kern River Tour did not. That was also awesome. I also bought the pictures during the trip which is pretty cool since you can't really take a selfie when you're on the raft paddling away! They were $50 plus tax - a little over $53 total for 25 images. It may seem overpriced but also who can stand and take all these action photos for you while you paddle away. Overall, the experience was great and I definitely recommend others to try! read more

We went on the Gusto trip on 8/4/18 and it was incredible. The staff here are the most down to earth people I've met in a long time. We were the first people to get to the meeting location that day and it was like we arrived at a friends house. Everyone is super friendly, helpful, and your safety and rafting experience are their #1 priority. We did not get one negative vide the entire day. Kyle, our guide definitely was a huge part of why we all had a fantastic day, #SendIt. He was incredibly patient and calm throughout the day. He was always reassuring in what to do to get through each rapid. The directions given were very clear to all the rafters, but never over pressuring. All around a perfect summer day, we will 100% be back and with more people. Thank you again Kern River Tours!!!! read more

Kern River Tours - "look Mom, No Hands!!!" - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

I was part of a large group that went for a friend's birthday and we went on a Class 2-3. It was fun, exhilirating, relaxing, a great workout! They have loaner water shoes for those who don't have any. Of course those things were used by others before so use at your own risk but at least youwon't be barefoot over rocks. Our guide was cool. He kept sticking his oar in at whitewater spots in order to turn our raft randomly to give us extra workouts and extra thrills. He was awesome. * The trip was VERY affordable. * Kern River is only about 2 hours from Los Angeles. * Great bachelor or bachelorette party alternative. * They have half day and full day events at variouss kill levels. * Snack was provided at our half day trip. read more

One of the best trips I have done with my daughter (age 11) and friends. From the first person I spoke with to everyone in between, the customer service was excellent. Super helpful and down to earth. They worked with me on excellent pricing for our large group (15). And made sure everyone in our party felt safe and happy with their experience. Our guide Sheldon made our trip exciting and fun. He was great with the three kids on our boat, building their confidence and pushing them out of their comfort zone, all while making them feel safe and secure. He was knowledgeable of the river and the stories of the area. We were so lucky to get matched with him!!!! Thank you Sheldon and the entire staff at Kern River Tours. Shout out to Geneva and J as well. They helped with booking and things to do in the area. read more

I had a great experience here. I had a group of 6, a full boat on a lower kern full day trip. We had a level four trip. My river guide was Scott. I highly recommend him and suggest you ask for him by name. He had a great knowledge of the river, raised on the Kern, and he was great with people. He was able to have fun and went entertain us, but most importantly, he was a great leader and was able to get us to work together as a team and have fun. Be sure to ask about the water flows for the upper and lower kern. It varies in the temperature and water flows being released from the dam. I would high recommend this group! read more

Kern River Tours - Great day with our guide Scott on the Gusto trip Lower Kern - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

Great day! The Kern River is running the best it's been in 10 years! They operate in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service (Sequoia Forest) and Bureau of Land Management. Our River Guide, Mark, really knows the river well. His professionalism, foresight, and emphasis on safety was ever present! The entire crew had our safety and enjoyment in mind. (Especially Mark, Susie Q., and a big shout out to "Flip Drill".) If you raft the Kern; "Kern River Tours" are the outfit to go with!! read more

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Went on the gusto all day tour.our guide was Jimmy I think, he was awesome super down to earth me & my mom were late but they drove us to the first stop to meet up with our group. We had a blast it was definitely an adventure during our tour we did flip and all of our group went under which is really scary but everyone survived so it just made the rest of the day more fun to stay in the raft during a rapid. Our lunch was in our raft and we flipped before lunch but they sealed & tied everything so that nothing got wet and we had a pretty tasty lunch. The one day was perfect I personally am glad we didn't do a two day because my entire body hurt the next day, probably because it was a all day workout & partly because of being thrown in the water because the flip I would definitely do another tour with this company they were very nice& friendly & the experience was worth the price read more

Kern River Tours - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

My 15 year old son and I just completed an overnight on the Lower Kern, where on day one you go through Class II & III rapids, and on day 2 it's Class III & IV rapids. This was our second year doing this; last year was our first time doing white water river rafting so we elected to go with the one day Class II & III. At the end, we had had so much fun, we wished we had gone with the overnight, so that's what we decided to do this year. It was honestly one of the best times I have ever had. Each time, we have gone with some friends of ours: a dad with two boys ages 15 and 13, and it's just been fantastic. One of the things that makes Kern River Tours so great is they put in at a higher location so you get more time on the river; additionally, the camp is perfectly located, farther downstream and right after an adventure swim, which for us is one of the best parts. You can hike up a short distance and do the adventure swim over and over while the guides prepare appetizers and dinner. The next morning, they make breakfast. The food was delicious; and a word about our guides: we had Jeff and Scooter. They were absolutely fantastic. Extremely knowledgeable, experienced, encouraging and fun. They seriously could not have been better. Bottom line is I would highly recommend this to anyone. Excellent value for the money - it seems odd but I cannot think of any one thing they could do differently to improve the experience. My son and I will certainly be back next year! read more

7-1-2018 My wife and I had a great time. The staff was well organized, a lot of fun and could not have been nicer. The trip was a lot of fun. We floated between lazy river and white water for a couple of hours then they pulled the boats out and made a great buffet lunch of cold cuts, lemonade, water, and cookies. Then we did another couple of hours with a stop-off for a swim in the river and jumping off a diving rock. Photo opps along the way so be sure to look up with the pics are being taken. All in All an awesome day! read more

Kern River Tours - rafting on the Kern River - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

What an amazing time on the 2-day lower Kern river trip. The two guides Jeff and Scooter were truly outstanding and I can't say enough good things about these two guides or the entire crew at KRT. These guys have the total rafting experience down...great gear, awesome employees, amazing food and the best camp site of the outfitters. Jeff and Scooter were really engaging with everyone including the kids and always looking for opportunities to point things out, make more time for rock jumping or hop out of the boat for an 'adventure swim'. Also, these guys keep you well fed...grilled salmon, trip-tip and chicken for dinner with sides, homemade ice-cream and brownies! The lunches were very good too and even food waiting when we got back to the shop in the afternoon. The campsite was EXTREMELY clean, organized and they have thought of everything. Sleeping pads, covered panic tables, lots of lounge chairs, top notch fire pit, corn hole, horse shoes and even volley ball. The campsite is a huge beach area naturally formed by the river. I really wish every vacation could be this fun and the staff be so enthusiastic about what they do and focused on everyone having a great time. Kudos to you guys at KRT...we will be back next year! Thanks! read more

Such a great rafting experience, especially for my first time. We were a group at the novice level, which ultimately created issues. However, the guide Taya was extremely understanding & patient even though she could have easily been annoyed with our group. I recommend the double split (class 2 or 3) for first timers. It was extremely fun and the customer service was very helpful. The employees always called or e-mailed back within 24 hours. Tips: Do not bring any belongings beside your keys, there are no lockers. If your coming from LA from the 178 East, the entrance will be on the right side with the stairs and you can park across the street. read more

Legit. If you're thinking of rafting the Kern these guys should be your absolute go to. The two day trip breaks down as follows: the first day on the water was pretty uneventful. However, when you get to camp its about as first class as it gets - the food is amazing and included hand churned ice cream topping dutch oven brownies. The camp site is clean and safe and really well kept. Day two is FAR more exciting so get ready for that. That being said, I never felt like I was in any undue danger and safety is by far their greatest concern. Pack light - you really only need 1-2 shirts, a bathing suit, toiletries and a camera. Noone had cell service and that's just fine. You wont want it! read more

This trip was all we had hoped it to be and more. While my wife and I had been rafting several times before but we finally decided to take our kids ages 11, 13 & 16 on a trip to introduce them to the sport. Our Guide Tayah was nothing short or amazing at making the younger one and her friend feel very comfortable in the raft. The office staff, driver and guides were friendly and fun from check in to check out. The trip was a huge success and left our kids wanting to come back for more. We will definitely be booking a second trip with these guys. read more

Kern River Tours - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

These guys were really great and they salvaged what otherwise would have been a disastrous day. On our way to the river, a jackknifed truck started a fire and closed the 5, which made us have to go around the back way, adding a couple hours to get there which made us late 2 hrs. They radioed the boats who waited at the first camp. Can't say enough good things about their efforts and staff. Water was great as we're both the weather and rapids. My only complaint trip wise is on the lower Kern was that you have to stop a lot(for other boats) and to carry the boats around fast rapids and problems. Two suggestions. Have an emergency number somewhere on your website. I tried calling at 7 am and could reach anyone until 9. Second, it would be nice to have music on the trip, especially while waiting. I know this suggestion is going to go over like a fart in church to the nature lovers but it would be nice when you're waiting around. read more

Our family tried to join a group of familes for this "exciting" experience. We called for a few weeks ahead of time and left tons of messgaes but NO ONE retured out calls. Finally, we got in touch with them one day before the Memorial day and they told us that they did not have any space left. Thank you for ruining my weekend!!!!!!!!!! I should have given you an no star. If you want to be a good company, return your customers' phone call. Who do you think you are? read more

This was my second trip with Kern River Tours and it was a blast. Perry was our guide and I was impressed with his ability to read the water and make sure we were safe and had fun. I will be going back!!! read more

We got to Kern Tours at 8 because they suggested we get there 30 mins early. They debriefed us on rules videos and safety. Then they suited us up in helmets and vest and got us on a "short" bus. The crew was awesome! Cody, Ray, Steven, Gravy, Chris, and Jeff. Played Horse Shoe, Had some lemonade, as the guys set us up for our 10-hour journey. The ride was fun, with just the right amount of danger to make it a helluva adventure. The crew even had us stop 3 hours down the river to go cliff jumping which I was surprised I did it! They even had a camera crew to capture some awesome photos of our adventure. Their equipment was up to date, clean and felt safe. I'd totally recommend this place and I would definitely return for another adventure. This is a very late review. I went rafting with this company in July 2012 read more

My husband and I did the Picto 1 day rafting trip with this company, and it was great! The guides are very experienced and provide great instruction. It was my first time rafting and I was a bit nervous, but we had a great trip and didn't flip over or fall overboard. They even bring lunch and prepare it all for you mid-trip. We had a lot of fun and will definitely be returning for the 2 day trip. Cost wise, I'm not sure how expensive or inexpensive it is, because it's the only one I've done. But regardless, we had a great day, and I would highly recommend this company for any rafting in the Kernville area . read more

What a great experience! We had a wonderful time! All the guides were very nice and courteous. I liked the fact that they take safety very serious. The adrenaline rush that you get during those rapids is awesome! We also got to see some water buffalo along the river. Oh, and the food was awesome! All you can eat!! Thank You for making it fun for the entire family! We hope to return again before the end of summer! read more

Kern River Tours - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

Had an awesome time rafting with this group! If you wanna raft with the pros, go with these guys. Made a bomb lunch as well

If you are looking for a group with good customer service, a strong history on the river, and guides who focus on tailoring the trip based on the group they have on a given day, Kern River Tours is it. Leading up to our visit to the Kern, KRT had very clear communication, and sent a reminder the day prior to our reservation with a reminder of what to bring. Our guide, Scooter, has over 17 years of experience rafting the Kern, so not only was able to navigate the river to give us the fun experience we were looking for, he was also able to provide a lot of history and context for different rapids, landmarks and other. We had a group of 7, and they split us into 2 groups with 2 guides. It was so nice to not be all crammed into one boat, and it was also great to have a trip size that was more manageable. We saw another outfit on the river with over 20 people - my husband and I were so thankful to be part of a smaller trip where we didn't have to waste as much time waiting for a bunch of other boats. Food was great - make your own sandwiches for lunch (with freshly made guac). I hear their 2-day trip is even better. We were glad we did the Lower Kern day trip rather than the Upper, but it depends on what you are looking for. read more

We did the one day, class IV lower Kern river rafting trip. We've never done class IV and have never rafted an entire day. We had a wonderful time! We were trained on paddling and safety before we put in the river. (I don't think I ever quite got the hang of back paddling) It was a great day, lots of exciting white water, floating in the calm sections river, and fantastic guides! Our guide was Scooter (Scott) and he was the best. Patient, knew the river, and great conversationalist. I highly recommend KRT for your rafting group, they'll take care of you from start to finish! read more

Had the absolute best time possible. Booked 2 weeks in advance did the one day upper cause we were all beginners, i totally recommend the one day upper if you haven't been it is perfect ranging from class 1-4 which is plenty. A shout out to BP and Scott they were awesome guides ill definitely be back to tackle the thunder run next with my little crew of thrill seekers. These guys are awesome i didn't have a y problems everyone was chill and laid back plus lunch was effing amazing! read more

Kern River Tours - Start of the day - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

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We went on an all day rafting trip with a large group! The run we did was called the gusto! All of us had a fabulous time! Our three guides on the trip were great, safe, and attentive! I would suggest requesting Scooter, Scott, and Dillon! The lunch was so much better then expected! The trip was the perfect amount of thrill, excitement, and fun! read more

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Fantastic experience with friendly, fun, engaging staff. They cater to your needs and wishes for experience. We were 2 adults 12,17 and 18 and did 2 hours tour. I wish we would have done longer trip with a little more action but for our first time on river got to experience some level 3's and it was fine. Chris and Ace were the bomb. Thanks for making the drive worth while. Loved experience. I would definitely choose Kern Tours when going out again. read more

Best time ever!! Christopher and his crew were amazing. Such an adrenaline rush and always felt safe. The crew made us the most delicious lunch. It was nice to have handsome men make us lunch without complaining :) We will be back to do the 2 day tour. read more

Kern River Tours - "Funner" Crew with Christopher :) - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Lake Isabella, California

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THE MOST FUN I HAVE EVER HAD! Seriously, was the most exhilarating experience I think I will EVER have. We had such a blast!! My family of 7 went during the end of July on the overnight tour (2 days). I was completely blown away by the talent these guides have... ESPECIALLY WITH COOKING! Some of the most amazing food I have ever had, hands down. Kyle and Chris are superb! I would suggest this experience to EVERYONE! It is TOTALLY worth the money. We'll be coming back soon! Such a perfect time! read more

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We went on an all day rafting trip. The run we did was called the gusto. Our guides on the trip were great, safe, and very attentive. The lunch was excellent and tasty. The whole trip was the perfect amount of thrill, excitement, and fun. All of us had a fabulous time. read more

Had such a great time on Saturday with Kern River Tours! It was my first time rafting and it will definitely not be my last! We did the lower river and it did not disappoint! The water was amazing and the rapids were a perfect mix of fun with an adrenaline rush! Our guide was Scooter and he was absolutely awesome! Super safe, very knowledgeable and encouraging! I started the trip off in the back of the raft since I was a little nervous at first. When we got to the third quarter of the trip he wanted me try out being in the front and by the fourth quarter I didn't relinquish my spot in the front! So much fun! We pulled over halfway on the trip at a nice spot on the river where we could relax and enjoy a sandwich spread put together by the guides.. very delicious! Everything was so fresh and tasty! If you are looking to book a rafting trip, look no further! Kern River Tours is the company to use!! All the staff members were friendly and helpful! They offer a two day rafting trip and I can't wait to do that in the future! read more

Kern River Tours was best choice for our trip.. It was our first time to go River Rafting and our guides "Drew and Sean" were exceptionally the best. Very knowledgable and very experienced. We went through level llls and lVs and because of their expertise we went thru those with no problem. The runs were perfect!! We did "THE SAMPLER" considering it was our first time, going thru level llls and lVs was a challenge since the current was strong and fast, yet it was extremely fun!! The location of Kern River Tours is perfect. It was located right in front where most of the other river raft companies starts off and ends off. We didnt have to walk far to get to starting point like others did. It was in front of us. We also had an excellent photographer who took amazing pictures while we were rafting. We weren't aware of anyone taking photos but at the end when we saw them.. It was worth purchasing!! read more

Tour: The Sampler Pros : Guide was very cool and made the trip enjoyable Equipment was in good condition. Sampler gives a good mix of class levels. Cons: Felt classification of sections was off. PRICE!! Way to high for what you get. $550 for approximately 4 hours, some of that waiting, riding on the bus and carry equipment. That will keep us from returning again. PRICE!! Picture package $80.!! Sorry but I'm a professional photographer and that price for the number of pics and quality of the shots is ridiculous ! Bend over on this one because your definitely taking it in the rear. Clearly taking advantage of the guest just accepting the price because they do not have their own pictures. Even though we had decided to take the pictures and split the cost amongst our group the photos were not available. We left to eat and came back and still no picture package available. They offered to ship them to us but this is a digital world and there was no excuse of the images to not be ready immediately.... especially at $80. read more

I originally booked this trip as a Bachelor party for my best friend and his groomsmen. After one of the guys went down with shoulder surgery, I had to re-book, which the company made very easy. Finally we ended up doing the trip after the wedding with him, his new wife, my wife and another friend. The first day was a sampler/training run, which was really fun, and our guide made sure to put us through our paces, anticipating the next days activities. The second day was the 'black diamond' run of the Upper Kern, known as the 'Thunder Run', which is a long course of class +4 and 5 rapids. The guides, and the safety Kayakers, and the additional safety people in each of the two boats on the trip couldn't have been more focussed and determined to see us through safely and to bring us a great time. The River was flowing very high, and none of the guides allowed us to feel complacent at anytime, we knew we were in for a serious adventure, and they made sure we understood the risk potential. That said, the day was amazing, we tackled some of the hairiest stuff on the river, and kicked butt. Not once did we feel unsafe. Well, not anymore than perhaps you should on the amazing whitewater up on the Kern!! I cannot recommend this company enough, they went so far beyond the norm to make sure we had the time of our lives. Professional, experienced guides, helped us feel safe, and the feel of the community within the entire company, from bus driver to desk clerk was terrific. Cannot recommend highly enough. read more

We went rafting with Berg, James and Scooter this weekend and it was fabulous! We were supposed to do the one day upper, which is the above the damn, but because of water pressure it was dangerous, instead we did the stretch below the damn. Before leaving they gave us the whole safety and attire schpeil. They provide vests and helmets, and offer wetsuits, wet shirts and swimshoes for rent. My husband and I were the only two who got the whole outfit, and felt like total city slicker tourists. It was the best $16 I ever spent. We were the only two people without sunburned knees, and gave us that extra confidence of being protected. Our guide "The Berg" was extremely knowledgable, and intense when needed. He is has been a medic, we all felt very secure with him. The guides made a suprisingly yummy healthy lunch, and there is defintely something sexy about a guy who just saved your life fixing you food. I fell out of the boat and it was the most fun I've had in a long time. There were no kids in our group, but I can say I rafted when I was seven and lived to raft again. read more

KTR Thank you for the generous support to the Kern Valley High School Prom 2017!! You support of the Kern Valley Youth is outstanding. Thank you for being a steadfast community minded business!! read more

AMAZING!!!!!!! Jay helped a party of 27 for 2 days of rafting. Our guides were very involved and helpful. They made us all feel welcome and comfortable. Great attitudes. Good lunches too - there was something for everyone to eat. There was lots of laughter and new memories to be made. Great trip! Great Company to book with. read more

Had a great rafting trip with our guide Shawn. We had 7 (8 counting Shawn) on the lower Kern River, hitting 9 3-4 rated white water rapids. He kept us safe, while giving us a great ride. Lunch was simple, but ample with fresh fruit, sandwiches and plenty of lemonade and water. Well worth the 8 hour drive up from Phoenix - and would love to come again. We originally booked the upper river, but were switched to the lower river due to the water levels. We were notified of the change well in advance, so no surprises. They offered a cd with pics of us on the rapids - and t-shirts were only $5. They even had hot dogs and watermelon to go when we got back. Highly recommended! read more

These outfitters are the best! I have booked with this group 4 times and each experience has been excellent. The guides are knowledgeable and very good at instructing. They are also pleasant and you can tell they enjoy their work. I recommend this company without hesitation. read more

We were a group of four girls of assorted ages, 50 year old mom with 24 and 19 year old daughters and 15 year old niece, and we had the best time! Our raft guide was Carl Naylor and the trip leader was Jimmy. First, Carl was a very low-key, easy to get along with guide, who made us feel very safe in the raft. He was clearly a very experienced rafting guide and made us feel confident on our two-day rafting trip. He and Jimmy were funny and easy to get along with. We loved them both! Second, camp was clean and comfortable, with plenty of shade. There were lots of comfortable sleeping pads to sleep on out under the open night sky. You can see so many more stars at night away from the city! The food was AMAZING! Dinner was tri tip, salmon and chicken, plus stir fry vegetables, cheesy mashed potatoes, salad, and most importantly, delicious brownies made in a dutch oven at camp and home-made ice cream. Breakfast was scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, fruit salad, potatoes and cinnamon apple muffins. Amazing! Third, the rafting was a LOT of fun! The class 4 rapids were very exciting, but Carl kept us in the raft and feeling safe. During some of the calm stretches, we jumped into the river to cool off. The scenery was amazing and we all loved it. We are definitely considering doing this again next year. read more

We did the gusto today. Tired and a bit sore,but wow what a great time! The guides are all great, they know their stuff and provide a great time. We had a rookie, Kent he was awesome! We hit all the hot stuff & he knew how to handle the raft. The guys love the river and their jobs. Lots of fun and excitement.we were the only raft that didn't capsize or lose rafters a combination of a great guide and our hard work. The lunch was top notch. The gift shop was great the prices so very reasonable. The ladies who handled the phone are the best. So very helpful and pleasant. Their recommendations for rooms and restaurants were spot on. All in All great trip and group of people! read more