Family Friendly Rafting on the Payette River

If you're searching for the ultimate family adventure in Idaho, look no further than the Payette River in southwest Idaho. Just a short drive from Boise, this gem of a river offers thrilling yet safe whitewater rafting experiences for families. Whether you're planning a half-day outing or a full-day whitewater experience, the Payette River is the perfect destination for family rafting in Idaho.

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Overview of the Payette River

Nestled in the heart of Idaho’s wilderness near Boise Idaho, the Payette River offers a wide variety of rafting opportunities for all ages and skill levels. Known for its accessibility and natural beauty, the Payette River is a favorite among families looking for an outdoor adventure.


From gentle rapids to scenic floats, this iconic river has something for everyone. Explore why rafting vacations for families in Idaho are the perfect way to connect with nature, connect with each other, and do less to experience more.

Why families love it:




The river’s diverse sections offer everything from calm, scenic floats to more exciting rapids.


Proximity to Boise makes it convenient for locals and visitors alike, only 1 hour from the Boise airport.


A focus on safety and beginner-friendly rafting ensures kids and first-timers feel at ease. Our kid-friendly rafting can help families build confidence as they face challenges and overcome them together. Success on the water reinforces a sense of accomplishment.

I'll guide you to amazing places

Why Choose the Payette River for Family Rafting?


Proximity to Boise

Planning a whitewater rafting trip near Boise, Idaho is easy thanks to the Payette River’s close location. Within an hour’s drive, families can escape city life and immerse themselves in a world of outdoor whitewater fun.


Scenic Beauty of the Region

The Payette River flows through some of the most spectacular landscapes in Idaho. Families can enjoy panoramic views of forested mountains, rugged canyons, and tranquil meadows. Wildlife enthusiasts often spot deer, eagles, and other native species during their trips. Our highly rated guides at Cascade Raft and Kayak share knowledge about the local history and geology of the river area.



Beginner-Friendly Sections

For those new to rafting, sections like the SPLASH Main Payette provide mild rapids that are perfect for kids and first-time paddlers. The river’s clear waters and calm stretches make it ideal for a fun and relaxing family rafting adventure near Boise. With proper equipment and instruction, families can focus on having fun without worrying.  We take care of everything, you just show up for your trip and enjoy!

Planning Your Family Rafting Trip

Best Seasons for Rafting with Kids

July and August is the best time for Idaho rafting trips for families, offering warm weather and manageable river flows. May, June and early September also provide excellent conditions for rafting, with fewer crowds and stunning seasonal scenery.


Selecting the Right Rafting Company

Choose a reputable outfitter like Cascade Raft & Kayak, which specializes in family-friendly rafting trips on the Payette River. Safety as the #1 priority, experienced guides, kid-sized safety gear, and a focus on fun make for a memorable adventure.  We take care of all of the details, provide all the needed equipment (including wetsuits and splash jackets if its cold) so your family can enjoy your time whitewater rafting in Idaho.


Key Considerations for Safe Adventures

  • Ask our friendly reservationist about the difficulty level.  Opt for beginner-friendly trips appropriate for your group’s ages and skill levels, like SPLASH Main Payette family rafting trips. 
  • Always wear properly fitted US Coast Guard-approved life jackets. Ensure it fits snugly and is worn correctly through your trip.  Our amazing guides will ensure your life jacket is properly fitted and worn at all times.
  • All of our guides are trained professionals who prioritize your safety, are certified in whitewater rescue and CPR with standards that far surpass the licensing requirement.



Top Family-Friendly Rafting Sections


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SPLASH Main Payette River half-day trip


  • Features and Highlights: Calm waters between Class II-III rapids, perfect for kids as young as five, but exciting enough for the whole group. Swimming, “riding the bull”, and other mischief await your group on our most popular trip!
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Ideal for: Half-day outings and families seeking a mix of fun and relaxation.

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ESCAPE North Fork Payette River full day trip


  • Unique Attractions: Full day experience with challenging rapids for older kids and teens, warm water for swimming, and amazing scenery for everyone.  Enjoy a riverside lunch prepared for you by our guide staff and enjoy your family adventure.
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Best for: Adventurous families looking for a day of nature and whitewater fun.

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Rafting near McCall Idaho

McCall and Cascade areas

  • Explore rafting with kids near McCall, Idaho, and family-friendly options near Cascade Idaho. Our full day “Escape” North Fork Cabarton rafting trip has a convenient meeting place in Smith’s Ferry for those coming down from Cascade or McCall Idaho for a whitewater rafting adventure!  Chat with one of our reservationists to confirm your meeting place at the historical Cougar Mountain Lodge in Smith’s Ferry where you park your vehicle and hope on the bus for your full day family-friendly rafting adventure.


Garden Valley and Banks areas

Explore rafting with kids near Banks, Idaho, and family-friendly options in Garden Valley. Cascade Raft and Kayak is conveniently located to Garden Valley, with the distance of about 15 miles. Both our half and full day trips depart from our river center which has ample parking, clean restrooms, and an amazing riverside patio, grass, and decks!  If you are coming from Banks Idaho we are located 8 miles south easly accessible from the highway. 

"What an awesome experience! We had the best Family rafting trip down the river with Cascade Raft!!"

From the excitement of riding rapids to the joy of spotting wildlife, family rafting trips on the Payette River offer an unforgettable way to experience Idaho’s natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or a full-fledged rafting vacation for families in Idaho, the Payette River is ready to welcome you.


Ready to embark on a family-friendly rafting adventure near Boise? Let Cascade Raft and Kayak  help you create lifelong memories on the water.

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