2 Day Lower Kern

Pre – Trip Considerations 

Where to Park?
Frandy Campground offers secure parking for 8 dollars a day. Free parking is available along the street, but we cannot assure the safety of your vehicle. The parking area in Frandy is also where the trip meets in the morning, making it an easy place to organize your gear, meet the guide team, and have additional questions answered!

Lodging and Camping
Numerous camping and lodging options exist within the Kern River Valley. 

Food and Beverages
Sierra South has you covered in the food department! Expect abundant and delicious food throughout the two days. Any special diets should be shared prior to the trip to ensure those options. If you have specialty snacks you want in camp, bring them – in moderation of course. Sierra South will provide ample drinking water on the river and at camp. If you would like additional soda or alcohol in camp we can pack it in a cooler full of ice and have it ready for you when we hit the beach! As per regulations by Sequoia National Forest, glass containers are prohibited. Consumption of alcohol should be done in moderation after rafting is finished for the day, and only on the beach. Never before, or during rafting. 

Physical Ability
Two full days of rafting on the Kern is an exceptional experience. One that is enhanced by participants who are in good health. Paddling, swimming, pulling people into the raft, and walking on uneven terrain are all part of the adventure. Please reach out to us if you have any medical conditions that might affect or prevent you from participating in these activities. We carry a full first aid kit with us on the raft and are happy to bring any medication! 

Responsibility/Liability
All participants are required to sign a waiver of liability before joining the trip. You’ll find the waiver link in your confirmation email. This is standard for rafting trips across the world. The Kern River is a dynamic environment that has inherent risks, both known and unknown. Sierra South assumes no responsibility for injuries, death, or loss/damage of clients property while on the river. 

Participation Ages
12 years old is the minimum age for our Two Day Lower Kern Trips. This age minimum is based on our experience and judgement regarding the safety of our younger participants. During seasons with highwater, our protocols may change to an age minimum of 16. We do not have an age maximum, but please refer to our ‘Physical Ability’ paragraph for an idea of what is expected. As always, please reach out to us with any and all questions!

Trip Insurance
Personal Trip insurance can protect you against an unforeseen cancellation on your part that can result in loss of fees. 

On the Water!

Guides
Sierra South employees are a professional guide team that is skilled on the water and eager to entertain our participants! We are knowledgeable about the sections of the river you will be running; ready to anticipate, mitigate, and respond to any challenges that arise along the way. This includes river rescues, First Aid, and CPR.

Clothing
The Kern River Valley hosts some of the best weather Southern California can offer. Light clothing suitable for swimming and sun protection is perfect. Hats and sunglasses are encouraged, footwear is required and any sandals should have a strap on the heel. 

Gear We Supply
Sierra South provides high-quality river gear for your trip. This includes a helmet, life jacket, and paddle. In early Spring, wetsuits are available to rent. 

Photography
We have photographers positioned at exciting points along the river. Your guide will give you a heads up when a photo is coming so we can capture big smiles and strong paddling! Photos are available for purchase when you return to Sierra South.

Tipping
Gratuities are appropriate when participants feel compelled to give them! If the trip and guides met or exceeded your expectations, a 15-20% tip is typical. 

Permits
Sierra South operates trips under a permit issued by the United States Forest Service, Sequoia National Forest. Only permitted companies are allowed to operate commercial trips on the Lower Kern. 

Your Packing List

Camp

• Sleeping bag, pillow, bedding
• Headlamp or flashlight
• Toiletries
• Warm layer for the evening 
• OPTIONAL
  • Tent
  • Book or any board games
  • Sports Ball

River

• Light clothing for swimming and sun protection
• Sunglasses 
• Hat
• Sunblock, chapstick
• Water Bottle 

We Provide

• Sleeping Pad
• Camp Chairs
• Games
• Food

Leave it Behind!

• Any and all valuable you can’t afford to lose
• Firearms, firecrackers, 
• Pets