Whitewater rafting fun in Alberta
Photo by: Jeff Mackay (Stock Exchange)

Last time on AllCampgrounds, we got started looking at the thrilling and often challenging world of river rafting. Now that we know the basics of finding a river and a raft – and that you don’t have to bring Jean-Claude Van Damme along to safely work your way through a beginner river – it’s time to look at some basic techniques for navigating that current.

Tips and Tricks for Your First Rafting Trip

Get informed before you go: Not all campsites are right for rafting, but there are thousands of camp grounds around the U.S. and Canada that offer guided trips downriver. For your very first trip out without a guide, you definitely want to select a camp that focuses on its rafting as a main feature, even if only to find out from experienced rafters what kind of challenges you might face around the bend. In many places, you can get handy river guidebooks to study, too.

Make sure everyone is comfortable: When it comes to rafting, there’s safety in numbers, even in well-developed camp grounds. To get the most out of your trip, you’ll need at least a small crew of friends. Make sure everyone is “on the same page” and understands the river, the currents you’ll be up against, and procedures in case of emergency. We’ve all seen the cartoon where one guy on the boat is facing the wrong way – don’t let this be YOUR team on your first time out!

Always start on Class II rivers: It’s a good idea to get some professional instruction in water rescue and emergency response before moving on to Class III river rafting. Besides that, a few good trips on Class II rivers will teach you the vital skills to keep an eye out on what’s ahead and anticipate any trouble, without losing the concentration you need to keep your raft on track. There’s no stop, slow, or reverse on a raft, and even for the best, the decision-making skills take a while to cultivate.

Take things head on: It may seem counterintuitive at first, but the main thing to remember in rafting is that you can’t fight the current. If, in spite of everything, you’re going to hit an obstacle, it’s almost always better to hit it square-on. This reduces the odds that your raft is going to tear, turn, or flip over. And speaking of which, be prepared to (safely!) “abandon ship” if need be, floating downstream with the current to a safe exit point. The best way to do this is on your back, with your legs out in front of you.

Pine Creek Gorge - Photo by S. Webster

Deep in the woods of Northeastern Pennsylvania, near the small town of Wellsboro, you will find some of the most beautiful camping and hiking spots anywhere. This is the location of the Pennsylvania “Grand Canyon,” also known of as Pine Creek Gorge. If you are looking for peace and quiet, or you prefer hiking, rafting, fishing or photography you will find it all and more.

State Parks Near the Canyon

Leonard Harrison State Park is located on the east rim of the canyon. This is where you will find the most famous scenic views of the Pine Creek Gorge. Leonard Harrison also is the more modern of the two state parks surrounding the canyon and includes flush toilet, hot showers, a playground for the kids and a sanitary dump station. Some sites have electricity.

Leonard Harrison is also home to the famous “Turkey Path Trail.” Along the two miles trail down, you will find beautiful waterfalls and scenic views. Wildlife and wild flowers are abundant, and the fall foliage is breathtaking.

Colton Point State Park is located on the west rim of the canyon. It is a much more rustic facility if you really want to experience the outdoors. Hiking trails are abundant and fishing is great if you don’t mind carrying the equipment down the trail and the catch back up! There are no facilities for kids on this side, so unless your kids really like camping and hiking, it probably isn’t the best option.

Hills Creek State Park is located about 20 miles from the actual canyon. It does, however, have boating and swimming facilities, a snack bar, and modern facilities.

Army Corp of Engineer Parks

Ives Run Camp Ground, also known as Tioga Hammond Lake, is another great place to camp that is near the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. It is a great facility for kids. There are RV sites with full hook-ups down to tent sites in a primitive area. There are playgrounds, a beach for swimming along with swimming from campsites in certain areas, boating, water-skiing and other water sports, hiking trails and gardens, and just a whole lot to do.

Ives run is also located close to the New York State Border and the Corning Glass Museum as well as other attractions for rainy days.

Wynken, Blynken, & Nod Statue - Photo by S. Webster

What Else is There to Do?

If you are tired of camping, fishing and hiking, or it’s raining, there are several other options.

Animaland Zoological Park is right near Leonard Harrison State Park. It has over 200 exotic, wild, and domestic animals housed in a 12 acre landscaped exhibit. There is a snack bar and gift shop.

Wellsboro is located about 12 miles from the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon. This picturesque town has gift shops, antique stores, and great restaurants. Don’t forget to visit “The Green,” located across from the Tioga County Court House, and view the famous Wynken, Blynken and Nod sculpture and fountain inspired by the poem of the same name by Eugene Field.

Wellsboro, PA - Photo by S. Webster

If you still need more to do, stop at the visitors center and learn about Pennsylvania’s scenic Route 6 and all it has to offer.