Private Boater Guide School Inquiry

This inquiry form is for private boaters who want to learn paddle guiding or rowing and build the skills to run rivers on their own. The Private Boater Guide School focuses on the fundamentals of paddle guiding and rowing, reading water, maneuvering a raft through rapids, and developing the judgment needed to plan and run successful river trips.

At A Glance

Session Length: 3 days
2026 Course Dates: Friday - Sunday, September 18–20
Location: Lotus, CA
Rivers: South Fork American, Middle Fork American
Cost: $1,446

Course Details

2 instructors, 6 students max
Plenty of hands-on instruction with time to practice
More individual attention than our Professional Guide School

Who Should Attend

Those passionate about the outdoors
Whitewater enthusiasts
Anyone looking to build or refine whitewater skills
First-time rafters wanting more than an average rafting trip

What Is Included

Meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on the final day
Raft, paddles, oars/frames, and safety equipment
PFD and helmet
Experienced professional instructional staff
Curriculum developed over 60+ years of California river operations
Connection with like-minded members of the river community

What to Expect

Full, action-packed days on the river
Learn to navigate whitewater confidently
Rowing and paddle guiding techniques
Rescue and recovery skills
Crisis management and communication
Trip planning and logistics
Basic hydrology
Mechanical advantage and rope systems
Equipment care and maintenance
Build connections with fellow participants
Outdoor kitchen and camp management

Off the Water

Group camping at Camp Lotus
Meals prepared together
Morning classroom sessions
Evening debriefs and lectures
Open Q&A sessions

Please share with us the following information. One of our operations managers will be in contact with you soon.

First name

Last name

Cell phone

Address

Address (cont'd)

City

State/province

Zip/postal code

Country

Emergency Contact (Full name, Phone number, and Relationship to you)

How did you hear about All-Outdoors?

Will you be at least 18 years old at the start of Guide School?

Rate your level of physical fitness on a scale of 1 to 10.

Rate your ability to swim on a scale of 1 to 10.

List any relevant medical conditions.

List any injuries in the last five years.

Describe your outdoor experience.

Describe your rafting experience.

Explain what you hope to get out of guide school.

Thank you for taking the time to fill out this inquiry form.

We will use the information submitted above to provide you relevant information about the services and activities we offer. Your personal details are protected by our privacy policy.