How To Float The Clackamas River This Summer

What Do I Pack For My River Float?

• A life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD) is required by Oregon law for all people 12 and under as well as paddle boarders, kayakers and boaters. (Remember that the term “boat” extends to tying tubes together.) Don’t have your own PFD? Check online ahead of time to see which areas offer life jacket loaner stations along the Clackamas River.
• A whistle is recommended and required by law under the same guidelines as PFDs when it comes to the term “boat.” 
• Sunscreen
• Water (check FAQ section for allowed drinks)
• Hat
• Sunglasses 
• Water shoes (flip flops are a recipe for lost footwear!)
• Dry bag for your phone, keys etc. is a game-changer, especially if it floats.

For a more detailed gear checklist, visit the Clackamas Water Trail Gear Checklist.

Where To Get Float Gear

In addition to outdoor recreation places like REI and Next Adventure, some other places closer to the Clackamas River (depending on where you’re starting) are Clackamas River Outfitters in Estacada and the Barton Convenience Store near Barton Park.

Where Should I Go To Float The Clackamas River?

It bears repeating that floating the Clackamas River can get busy, especially on weekends and from Barton to Carver. Avoid crowds and consider a midweek float or explore alternative routes like Upper Milo McIver to Feldheimer, Carver to Riverside, or Upper to Lower McIver. Find more details on these hidden gems here.

What Are My Float Trip Transportation Options?

Decide on your transportation. Will you use two cars, public transport or a shuttle? Most routes require a shuttle car left at your take-out point, but eNRG Kayak offers tube rentals and shuttles from Dahl Beach to Cross Park, accessible by public transport.

Floating Etiquette

Don’t be “that person” on the river. We all love the outdoors here in our little slice of PNW heaven, so let’s keep it that way by adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Check out this river etiquette checklist to become a beacon of inspiration to others while on the river.

Can I bring alcohol on the river?

No, alcohol is not allowed on the river and can come with some hefty fines.

How warm is the Clackamas River?

The better question is “How cold does the Clackamas River get?” This river comes from snow melt far upstream and can be dangerously cold in the spring (50 degrees) and can still remain comparatively chilly in the summer (60 degrees). Just because it may be 100 degrees outside doesn’t mean the river mimics swimming pool temperatures.

Are there park entrance fees?

The short answer is “yes”, depending on where you go. Visit our Lower Clackamas page under Alternative Float Options to see which are free and which have day-use fees.

What happens if I fall out of my tube?

Your natural instinct is going to be to stand up, however in many parts of the river there is a current and your feet can easily get stuck in the rocks below. Stay feet first down the river until you find very slow and/or shallow water. (This is where having a dry bag can come in handy!).

Where can I find more information about floating the Clackamas River?

Find suggestions for alternative floats on Mt. Hood Territory’s Clackamas River page. Another good resource for general information and a great map of the Lower Clackamas is the Clackamas Water Trail page.