Arkansas River Rafting for Beginners: Family Float

Two hours on the water without the intensity

Family Float is a beginner rafting adventure on Arkansas River's Class I & II rapids, designed for first-time rafters and families with young children. The 2-hour float includes a certified professional guide, full wetsuit package, and all required safety equipment. Children from age 5 are welcome. Check in 45 minutes before departure.

The experience

This is a gentle excursion built around Class I and II rapids: the kind that let you paddle and take in the river without fighting the current. You'll float the Arkansas River with a certified guide who handles the technical calls while you get the feel of the paddle and the water. The whole trip runs two hours, so it fits into a morning or afternoon without eating the rest of your day.

You get a full wetsuit package (wetsuit, splash jacket and river shoes), a PFD, helmet and paddle. Everything you need to stay warm and safe. The guide is there the whole time, and the trip operates in any weather, so you just dress for the conditions and go. Check in 45 minutes before departure. The operator notes that public transportation options are nearby if you're not driving.

What’s included

• Certified professional guide leading the float.
• full wetsuit package (wetsuit, splash jacket, river shoes).
• personal flotation device (PFD), helmet and paddle.
• all required safety equipment.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 19 May 2027

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 5 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by American Adventure Expeditions

Is this one for you?The 2-hour float leaves your morning or afternoon open for other activities, so it works as a single piece of your day rather than a full commitment. If you want something longer or more intense, look for a full-day trip on steeper rapids.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What do I wear and bring for the float?

The operator provides a full wetsuit package, splash jacket, river shoes, PFD and helmet. Bring a change of clothes and a towel. Wear something you don't mind getting wet underneath the wetsuit. Public transportation is available nearby if you need it.

How long does the whole experience take?

The float itself is 2 hours on the water. Plan to arrive 45 minutes early for check-in, so set aside about 3.5 hours total from start to finish.

What makes Class I and II rapids different from harder rapids?

Class I and II rapids are beginner-friendly: small waves and gentle currents that let you paddle and steer without fighting dangerous whitewater. You'll feel the river moving but stay in control the whole time.

Can I book this if I've never rafted before?

Yes. The Family Float is built for first-timers. A certified guide leads the whole trip, and the gentle rapids let you learn as you go without needing any prior experience.