NORTH CREEK RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Two Days Through the Hudson River Gorge: Class III–IV Rapids, Remote DEC Campsites, and Open‑Fire Meals
A 2-day, 16–17 mile guided rafting overnight from North Creek that runs Class III–IV rapids and combines riverside camping, fishing, hiking, and meals cooked over an open fire.
Two Days Through the Hudson River Gorge: Class III–IV Rapids, Remote DEC Campsites, and Open‑Fire Meals.
A compact wilderness expedition that threads the Hudson River Gorge: this two‑day guided trip launches on the Indian River, negotiates a sequence of Class III–IV rapids, and follows the Hudson past a string of largely river‑access DEC campsites where guides set up camp and cook over open flame.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Indian River Entrance and Class III–IV Whitewater
The 17‑mile overnight begins on the Indian River with roughly three miles of sustained Class III rapids before the trip reaches the Hudson; the route also passes a calmer stretch known as Cedar Ledges Rapid as paddlers move downstream.
Secluded New York State DEC River Campsites
For about ten miles of the descent the river is flanked by New York State DEC campsites scattered along the shoreline; most are accessible only from the water and see little use, offering time for fishing, hiking, and solitude.
Guided Camp Life, Open-Fire Cooking and Dutch‑Oven Desserts
Guides handle camp chores and cook over open fires, tailoring menus to group needs and finishing nights with dutch‑oven desserts—a practical, communal end to each day on the river.
What the day feels like
What the Two‑Day Flow Feels Like
The trip alternates energetic stretches of whitewater with long, reflective river miles and quiet evenings at campsite. After an adrenaline‑charged opening on the Indian River, the pace eases as you work downstream past Cedar Ledges and into a corridor of rarely used DEC sites where fishing, short hikes to ponds or overlooks, and simple camp rhythms define the overnight.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip matches—straight facts to assess fit.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 2‑day overnight rafting itinerary; operators run several different itineraries depending on river level and group needs. Pack seasonally (see What to Bring).
Spring and cooler fall days: wool or synthetic top and bottom, wool or synthetic socks, and a wool or synthetic hat. Warmer summer months: shorts and T‑shirt or bathing suit plus water shoes or sandals (no flip‑flops, Crocs, or bare feet).
Operator provides full wetsuit and jacket, splash jacket, PFD, helmet, paddle, and a healthy lunch on the river; trips are led by New York State licensed guides with high‑quality equipment.
Guides take care of cooking and camp chores; menus can be adjusted to meet group needs and the operator specializes in open‑fire cooking and dutch‑oven desserts.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip?
The trip is a 2‑day overnight.
What level of whitewater can I expect?
The itinerary includes Class III–IV rapids and covers roughly 16 or 17 miles depending on the chosen route.
What gear is provided by the operator?
The operator provides a full wetsuit and jacket, splash jacket, PFD, helmet, paddle, a healthy lunch on the river, and licensed guides with high‑quality equipment.
What should I bring?
For cool spring/fall days bring wool or synthetic top and bottom, wool/synthetic socks, and a warm hat; in summer bring shorts and a T‑shirt or bathing suit plus water shoes or sandals (no flip‑flops, Crocs, or bare feet).
Are meals provided and who cooks?
Guides handle camp chores and cooking; menus can be adjusted and the operator specializes in cooking over open fire with dutch‑oven desserts.
Where do we camp on the river?
Camping is at New York State DEC campsites scattered along about ten miles of the river; most are accessible only from the water and many have trails to remote ponds or scenic overlooks.