Oregon’s Owyhee River runs through some of the most dramatic canyon country in the Pacific Northwest, with over 50 miles of sheer red rock walls, desert solitude, and class III-IV whitewater.

While we run trips throughout the spring season, targeting the earliest launch dates gives you the best chance at high-water flows. Because the river is fed by high-desert snowpack, early spring trips typically provide the most volume that lends to creating an incredible ride through the canyon.

Tall basalt canyon walls on a Owyhee rafting trip

The Canyon Experience

Whitewater rafting on the Owyhee River takes you deep into an isolated wilderness with no roads or cell service. Days are spent running desert rapids, floating through quiet reflective pools, and taking in 1,000-foot basalt walls. The river canyon offers an array of unique experiences and fun activities in addition to the beautiful and fun whitewater we travel through each day.

Side Hikes & Hot Springs

We pull the rafts over to hike narrow slot canyons, scout ridge tops with expansive desert views, and soak in natural riverside hot springs near camp.

Desert side hikes on a river trip
Side hikes on a rafting trip down the Owyhee river

Wildlife Watching

Spring brings active wildlife to the canyon corridor. It’s common to spot bighorn sheep on the steep cliff faces, golden eagles, and falcons on the thermal updrafts, along with river otters along the banks.

Birds on the Owyhee River
Person viewing wildlife from a raft on the Owyhee River

Desert Camps

Nights belong to sandy riverbanks, warm camp meals, and stargazing under desert skies. Campsites on the Owyhee river stretch are remote, private, and provide ample space for exploring and enjoying the true peace of the desert wilderness.

Riverside camp on the Owyhee River
Enjoying a warm fire at the riverside camp

Get on the Owyhee River!

Ready to find out for yourself what the true beauty the Owyhee River offers? Don’t miss your chance to experience this unique and incredible river stretch. 5 days of making memories with friends and family that you will talk about for a lifetime.

2027 Owyhee River 5-Day Rafting Trip Launch Dates:

  • April 6 (4-day Rowing School as part of our 8-day Rowing & Paddling Guide School)
  • April 13 – 17 (Best bet for higher water)
  • April 20-24
  • April 27 – May 1
  • May 4 – 8
  • May 11 – 15

Wondering about what kind of food we serve on our Owyhee trips? You’ll be amazed. It’s not ‘dried camp food’. Check out a previous post about what type of food you get to enjoy on our multi-day trips!

Check out the full itinerary and reserve your spot on the river below. Maximum group size is 15, so dates fill up fast.

View Trips & Reserve

We hope to share a stretch of canyon with you this spring,

The Wet Planet Whitewater Crew