Family Reunion Idea: Take the Whole Crew Whitewater Rafting
You’ve got the group text going. Cousins are flying in. Grandpa’s bringing the bean dip. Now all you need? A family reunion activity that doesn’t involve sitting in lawn chairs making small talk about the weather.
Enter: whitewater rafting on the Arkansas River. It’s exciting, scenic, actually fun for all ages—and way more memorable than your average picnic-in-the-park situation.
Why Rafting Works for a Family Reunion
Here’s the pitch:
- It’s interactive (everyone’s in the boat, literally)
- It’s scenic (mountains, canyons, wildlife—check)
- It’s customizable (mild to wild, depending on your crowd)
- And it requires zero group planning from you—just book, show up, and paddle.
Everyone from your youngest niece to your thrill-seeking cousin can get in on the action. And unlike renting a bounce house or trying to coordinate a group hike, rafting keeps the entire crew together and entertained.
Where to Go: The Arkansas River
The Arkansas River near Cañon City, Colorado is one of the best family rafting spots in the country. It offers several trip options, depending on how splashy your family’s feeling:
- Bighorn Sheep Canyon – Class II–III rapids = bouncy, fun, and great for first-timers, grandparents, and kids (ages 6+).
- Royal Gorge – Class III–IV for the “bring it on” members of the family. Includes big water, big views, and bragging rights.
- The Numbers – Class IV–V, best saved for next year’s kid-free cousin trip.
If you want to take a look, here’s the Arkansas River whitewater rafting map with all the rapids noted as well as a few restaurants and accommodations in the area.
When to Go (aka: What’s This CFS Thing?)
CFS = Cubic Feet per Second, or how fast the river’s moving.
- May–June = fast water, big rapids, lots of adrenaline
- July = still exciting, but more manageable for mixed-age groups
- August–September = lower water, warmer temps, great for younger kids and chill vibes
In short:
- Want a thrill? Go early.
- Want balance? Go mid-summer.
- Want mellow and scenic? Go later.
Where to Stay: Glamping. Obviously.
Camping sounds nice… until someone forgets the tent poles. Save yourself the stress and book glamping tents near the river.
Places like Echo Canyon’s glamping grounds have:
- Real beds (you’re welcome, lower backs)
- Private decks
- Firepits for s’mores and cousin storytelling
- Running water (yes, flushing toilets)
You get the outdoor feel, the Instagram moments, and zero air mattress inflation required.
Bonus: many glamping setups offer multiple tents in one location, so everyone gets their own space without being miles apart.
What to Bring (and What Not to Worry About)
No need to overpack or overthink. Most rafting outfitters provide:
- Rafting gear (paddle, helmet, life jacket)
- Safety instructions
- Dry storage for valuables
You bring:
- Swimsuit or quick-dry clothes
- Secure water shoes (no flip-flops!)
- Sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap
- Change of clothes (you’ll want it)
- Snacks and drinks for post-river refueling
Add-On Adventures
Make it a full weekend. Cañon City has plenty to keep the family busy:
- Royal Gorge Bridge & Park – giant suspension bridge with gondolas, zip lines, and mountain views
- The Dinosaur Experience – interactive museum that’ll wow the younger crowd
- Jeep tours, hiking trails, wineries – take your pick, depending on the crowd’s energy level
Final Take
Planning a reunion is tough. Rafting isn’t.
You don’t have to organize 12 different activity options. You don’t need to cook for 30 people. You just get on the river, paddle together, and end the day laughing around a fire.
Book the rafts. Reserve the glamping tents. Let the river do the rest.
