Camping on the Middle Fork: The Easy Way!

On a Middle Fork Salmon River rafting trip, a large sweep boat is used to carry camping gear, food and supplies ahead of the main group. This allows the smaller rafts to be lighter and more maneuverable, which makes for a safer ride with more bounce and splash.

Once you arrive into camp, your tents are set up and your guides are preparing the appetizers for your delicious dinner to follow.

All you have to do is carry your personal gear to the tent of your choice and roll out your sleeping bag, flannel liner and thick, self-inflating foam sleeping pad (all of which is provided by the tour operator and stored in a waterproof bag).

To give you the opportunity to go hiking, fishing, read a book, etc., we generally arrive in camp no later than 4:00pm. Around 5:30, we serve hors d'oeuvres with dinner following around 7:00 pm.

Sleeping Bag

Freshly laundered sleeping bags and sheets provide warmth on cool evenings. You'll receive your personal sleeping bag upon arrival to the river.

Comfortable Pads

Paco pads are self-inflatable and make sleeping and relaxing on the river easy.

Roomy Tents

Tents are always available and on most trips, will be set up for you. You may be like many of our river guests who prefer to sleep under the vast canopy of stars.

Water-Resistant Bag

Your personal water-resistant dry bag will protect your duffel bag, sleeping bag and other personal items from exposure to sand and water.

Day-Use Bag

A smaller, personal day-use bag keeps important items handy during the day. This offers a convenient place to store rain gear, sunscreen, medication, etc.

Camp Chairs

Camp chairs offer comfortable seating along the river's edge. Camp chairs are stowed away while on the river and available while in camp.

Ground Cloth

A ground cloth keeps your gear and camping areas clean. This can be placed under your tent or Paco pad at night.

Toilet Facilities

A portable toilet and hand wash system is set up each day in camp in a secluded location that assures privacy.

Toilet Facilities on the River

The portable toilet system we use in camp (as shown in the video) is NOT available during the day while rafting. During the day your guides will take “pit stops” (also known as “smile breaks”) where boats pull ashore allowing guests to access the river’s edge and… smile... while discreetly relieving liquid waste (#1) directly in the river’s naturally flushing current, according to regulations. This is generally done by wading into the water in a calm location or by finding a more private location at the water’s edge.

While we won't have the toilet system available during a portion of each day, if you need to go #2 during one of our pit stops, we will provide directions to a private location and supplies for a clean and convenient way to collect and dispose of things.

Dining on the River

“The food was fantastic! It was amazing how the Western River guides transformed the campsites into a kitchen for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The meals were very well balanced. Dinners were gourmet.”

Kathy, Connecticut

Breakfast

Steaming coffee and tea provide welcome warmth to counter the cool sand between your toes. You might think you're still dreaming when you see plates of steaming flapjacks, fresh fruit and scrambled eggs, but it's the way every morning on the river begins. Your guides are not only trained river professionals, they're talented campfire cooks as well. Hand selected fresh fruit and vegetables are carefully packed for meals throughout each day. Ice coolers will carry fresh dairy products and meats. From these ingredients, you will have hearty, healthy meals prepared.

Lunch

A wonderful selection of fresh meats and cheeses, delicious bread, along with crisp vegetables and a variety of spreads satisfy hearty lunchtime appetites after a morning in the canyon. Tasty chicken and veggie wraps or perhaps chicken salad pitas may also be part of your mid-day buffet. At all times, unlimited quantities of fresh water and lemonade mix are available to quench your thirst.

Dinner

While you enjoy delectable appetizers and relax at the river's edge, the guides prepare a dinner that is sure to surprise and please. Every night is different, but the menu will likely include Alaskan Salmon, Prime Rib, lasagna, Idaho mashed potatoes, tossed green salad with your choice of dressing, vegetables, and side dishes. Dutch-oven cake and cobblers or other scrumptious desserts deliciously top off the evening meal. A moderate amount of wine is served at dinner. You will also be provided two beers, two sodas or juice per person per day. You are welcome to bring your own beverages as well.