Remember that this is a water rafting trip, so everything you wear will probably be wet by the end of the trip. This means taking jeans, shoes, or any clothing apparel that can’t get wet is a bad idea. Also it is a good idea to bring sunglasses, a hat, and shoes that can get wet but that will stay on your feet if you fall out of the boat.
This is the Central Valley, and in the summer time temperatures around 100 degrees are not uncommon. While the temperature around the river is cooler (because of the water) be prepared for being in the sun! Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen! DO NOT bring a Styrofoam ice chest; they will disintegrate. Do not bring glass bottles. Do not bring any pets (unless OK’d by the office staff). Don’t bring an expensive pair of sunglass, an expensive watch, or an expensive cell phone onto the boat. A good guideline is: if you can’t stand losing it, don’t bring it.
While we realize it can be hard to get a group onto the water at the designated time, we also need to stress the importance of being on time. The time that your reservation is at is important, and in reality you should plan on getting to the river 10 minutes ahead of time so you can get organized. If you show up too late, under some circumstances, your trip can be delayed or possibly canceled. Make sure you know EXACTLY how to get to our location the day before your trip (RaftAdventure.com/directions), and if you have any questions call our office at 209-848-4800.
Drinking alcohol on the Stanislaus River is (for now) legal. That being said, you are on a river. You could end up in the water. We at Sunshine would prefer our guests to not drink.
Most of our trips start in the historic town of Knights Ferry, which is about an hour and a half to two hours east of the Bay Area. Map Quest Map | Printable Area Map
What are Your Prices? Prices for trips do vary on a number of factors such as date of the trip, number of people in your party, the type of trip you want to book, etc. To get the lowest quote for your group, give us a call at 209-848-4800 or 800-829-7238. Otherwise, assume most trips are going to cost between $20-$24 per person for each day of rafting. Group discounts are available!
YES-DO IT NOW! Most weekends are booked up in advance. Last minute reservations are accepted if space permits. A 50% deposit will hold your reservation date. The full balance is due fourteen days prior to your trip. As soon as you've made your reservations, we'll send you a "Trip Packet" that includes info on logistics, things to bring, and other details.
Call 1-209-848-4800 to book today
Group leader goes free for groups of ten or more guests on guided trips. Special quotes are available for very large groups. Also we guarantee the lowest rate on all our trips. We'll beat any legitimate competitor's rate. Also, you can visit our Discounts page to see any new specials we may have.
You can also join our Sunshine Newsletter (at the top right of the page) which will let you know of upcoming specials and events, including half price and free trip days!
While not expected, tips are a nice way to show your appreciation for exceptional guide service. Our guides take great pride in making your day special.
Please understand that when we accept your reservation that we are planning for staff and provisions and are holding a space on your trip, often turning away others. Cancellations inside 30 days are not refundable and will result in full forfeiture of your deposit with no exceptions. Full refunds result if Sunshine Adventures, Inc. deems it necessary to cancel a trip due to unforeseen hazards, insufficient bookings, etc. Trips usually run rain or shine.
Outdoor activities such as rafting, hiking, and caving and their associated transportation include a certain element of risk and hazards, therefore, each guest will be asked to sign a "Release of Liability" form which shows your willingness to accept personal responsibility for risks involved in your adventure tour.
While there is no formal policy against bringing alcoholic beverages to the Stanislaus River, we personally discourage the use of alcohol in any sort of water-sport setting. Any consumption done on the Stanislaus while on Sunshine Rafting Adventure equipment should be done in moderation.
Raft and water sport adventures make a great gift for any birthday, anniversary, or other special occasion. We take great pride in our ability to customize our services to your special needs.....weddings, handicapped trips, and multi-day vacation packages. Give us a call for details.
Sunshine trips are run by permission of US Army Corps of Engineers - Sacramento District, US Bureau of Reclamation - Tracy, USDA.
If you have an interest in joining the Sunshine Rafting Adventures staff you can fill out a general application at our Online Employment Application or you can call our office at 1-800-829-7238.