Equipment:
- Raft that is able to handle the waters you plan to be on
- Enough oars for everyone and one spare
- Enough lifejackets for everyone (it is the law)
- Repair kit (optional)
- Pump (optional)
- Rope (optional)
- Drinking water
- Snacks
- Sunscreen
- Clothes good for the weather
Popular Locations:
For the swiftest water put in at Barton Park . If you put it at Barton the three most popular places to take out are Carver Park , Riverside Park , and Clackamette Park . People also put it at Carver Park and Riverside Park . I do not recommend putting in at Clackamette. To venture onto most of the upper Clackamas past Barton you need a permit and a guide or a lot of experience.
Cost:
- If you have all of the equipment then the trip is basically free other than gas, snack, and drinks.
- With out equipment you can purchase a basic rafting set for about $60.00 or $70.00 dollars. This would include the raft, two paddles, some rope, and maybe a pump. If you still need to purchase lifejackets you can get them for around $20.00.
Safety:
- Be sure all members of your party know how to swim.
- Never go rafting alone.
- Do not overload your raft with gear.
- Know the weather forecast of the day.
- Always be looking downriver so you know what is ahead.
- Know what direction you need to be going (know what side you should take on a fork)
- Do not swim in the swift waters.
- If the waters are very rough wear your life jacket.
- Make sure you tell your family where you will be.
For reliable safety information on rafting and other activities please visit The Susquehanna Valley Red Cross
Recommendations:
- It is good for you to know that all of the forks on the Clackamas after Barton Park will not lead you away from the main river. However some of them may be very shallow.
- Stay hydrated. It is very easy to get dehydrated.
- Wear sun block. You burn much faster on the water.
- I recommend putting in at Barton because that portion of the river is most fun.
- Don't drink and raft.
- Make sure someone knows where you are.