Warrior Impact
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Veteran Services in Central Oregon and Beyond

Recreational trips to foster healing and unity

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Support

We Thank you for your service

Each year, Warrior Impact provides veterans and first responders opportunities to unplug from the day-to-day trials of coping with post-traumatic stress (PTS).

As a way to say thanks and to support you in your healing journey, we offer a couple of different rafting trip options that are sure to engage you with a community of others just like you.

We put on free rafting trips geared toward building community, sorting through the pain of PTS, and finding new ways to heal both mentally and physically.

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Plan a trip

Be prepared for an exciting experience

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We are currently working on scheduling the next trips. Please follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay in touch in the meantime!

Frequently Asked Question

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly.

Can’t find the answer you’re looking for? Send us a message and we’ll get back to you shortly.

Do you provide camping gear?

A recommended gear list is provided in the trip details, however, if you are short on some gear, contact us and we will get you set up.

Why can’t we have non-locking carabiners for our water bottles?

A non-locking carabiner is an entrapment hazard on rafting trips.

How can I bathe or wash my hair?

On our summer trips, we usually bathe in the river. Biodegradable soap and shampoo are best for the river, so bring that if you can. We can also heat up some water for you, and you can use a soapy washcloth to wash yourself or bring wet wipes. You can also bring a sun shower if you’d like.

What about bathrooms?

Some campsites on the Rogue have outhouses, but we do not frequent them often. At campsites without an outhouse, the guides will set up a “groover”, which is a portable toilet, away from the campsite. The guides will also set up a handwashing station near the groover.

Should we tip the guides?

No need to tip! We are a nonprofit and these trips are free, because we truly believe in the impact of these trips and our mission. 

What is the age limit?

The minimum age limit is 18. If you can self-rescue, i.e. swim to shore and crawl out of the river if need be, you are good to go. We've even had a 73 year old Vietnam veteran that had a great time!

Do the rafts flip?

Our guides make every effort to not flip the rafts, but it can happen on occasion. You will be instructed before getting in a boat on what to do if this occurs. Inflatable kayaks can and do flip more frequently. For this reason, helmets are required while in the inflatable kayaks.

Can people reach me on my river trip?

It is often a challenge to get messages to you while you’re on the river, because there is very limited cell service. We carry Garmin inreach devices in case of an emergency. Arrangements can be made to share the number if need be, however, depending where we are on the river, extraction is difficult if there is not an emergency. 

What if there’s an emergency?

Our trips carry satellite communication devices known as Garmin inreach, but it’s important to know that they are strictly for emergency evacuation situations and not 100% reliable since our trips flow through vast wilderness areas. 

The guides are well-versed in evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency and how they handle the situation will depend on the severity of the situation and where your trip is located on the river.

Is alcohol provided?

No.  Also, no alcohol or mind-altering substances may be consumed while on the river. This is for your safety and for our insurance. As we all know, not all of us do well with alcohol, so our motto is “in moderation”.  If you want to bring a fifth of your favorite spirit you may, however, please put it in a non-breakable container. Only one please! 

You may bring up to one case of your favorite beverage, however, it may not be able to be placed in a cooler as space is limited. If we run out of space in the coolers, we do what’s called a “drag bag” where we hang a bag in the water off the boats in order to get drinks as cold as the water allows. 

As for marijuana, we are a Green Cross friendly group, but recall our motto. You may bring your favorite herb for the camp, but be advised it is not allowed while on the water, nor is it legal on Idaho trips. Remember, some of us may be dealing with substance issues, and may be in recovery, so please keep it low key.

Should I bring a camera?

There is always a chance that whatever you bring along rafting could be lost to the river. However, bringing a camera can capture special trip moments. We recommend that you store your camera in a case, in a Ziploc bag, inside your dry bag. Pelican boxes provide the best waterproof protection, and you could also use a disposable waterproof camera.

Warrior Impact guides also bring a camera on each trip to take pictures for the group. After the trip, these photos are uploaded to a special section of our website for you to view. Guests can view these photos, upload their own photos, and download any of the photos for free. Only guests on your trip will have access to these photos.

Do I need rain gear?

For Rogue River trips, always bring good sturdy rain gear, as they are during the spring and fall and we do get rain.  For the Lower Salmon trips, even if the forecast is for sun, we recommend at the very least, bringing a waterproof jacket in case of showers. Conditions can change rapidly on the river and being prepared can make your trip more comfortable.

Do you provide wetsuits?

On the Rogue River we provide splash gear– fancy rain gear with closures on the wrists and ankles. We are in the process of acquiring dry suits for these trips. On the lower Salmon, it's usually hot so they are not needed.  

Are there a lot of bugs?

The cooler evening temperatures and rushing water keep mosquitoes from being a huge problem, but during the hot months and at the lower elevations, there may be bugs. If you are sensitive to mosquitoes, you may want to bring repellant.

Is rafting safe?

As with any outdoor sport or adventure activity, rafting has the potential for risks. Your safety is our number one priority both on & off the river. All members of our staff are experienced and competent boaters, so you can rest easy knowing you are in good hands.

Will I fall out of the raft?

That is very unlikely on our Rogue River trips, as it's cold and we run very conservative to keep you dry and warm. On our Lower Salmon River trips, depending on which boat you are on there is a potential if you are interested in hitting the rapids hard. This is not required, but as it’s so hot sometimes we may have a little fun and games when conditions allow. We also sometimes do white-water Olympics or flip drills if you are interested. 

In the event that you do fall out of the raft, our highly experienced guides will direct you to the safest path and get you back in the boat rapidly.

How are your guides trained?

All our guides are very experienced, but we are not a commercial outfit. Several of our guides are full time professionals who run the Rogue all year long. Others are former guides who still do recreational boating and raft all year long. Most of us are prior military, firefighter medics, and former Search and Rescue, so you are in really good hands. 

What is your gear like?

We believe you are worth the best we can provide. This is why our gear is not only new, but top of the line. We provide you a helmet, personal floatation device (PFD), and splash gear.

Can I bring my own gear?

Most helmets and home PFDs do not fit our stringent regulations for safety. If you have questions about certain types of whitewater-specific apparel, please contact us prior to your trip.

What size are the rafts?

Most of our rafts are 16ft oar rigs. We do have a few 14ft boats and sometimes we will have a paddle boat for the lower salmon river when the weather is hot. We call it the “splash and giggle boat”.

How many people fit in one raft?

Usually, 1 to 2 per boat if we are not running a paddle raft for the lower salmon river.

What are the physical limitations of rafting?

We take people of all shapes, sizes, and abilities. We simply ask that you inform us of any medical conditions, physical disabilities, or allergies that may require special attention or accommodations when making a reservation. We have had guests who use a wheelchair, but are able to move themselves in the river should they fall out. 

Can I go rafting if I'm pregnant, have a back problem, or a preexisting health condition?

The best person to advise you on this is your doctor and your body. We are comfortable taking you on any river trip as long as you are comfortable with it yourself and can move yourself in the river if need be to avoid hazards should you find yourself experiencing an out of boat experience. 

How deep is the water?

The rivers we raft on are all natural riverbeds, Thus, the river depth varies from 2" deep to upwards of 30' deep depending on nature's placement of rocks and the distance from the shore. Rest assured, your PFDs will always raise you to the surface of the water and your guides will instruct you on how to be safe in the water.

Does the river go in a circle?

No. Transportation to the meeting point is up to you. Once we have you with us, we will store your vehicle in a safe place and a shuttle service will run our guide vehicles to the take out. From there we will get you back to your vehicle or hotel depending on the trips. 

What if I can't swim?

Swimming is not a prerequisite. We ask that all guests are comfortable in water. Your PFDs will provide you the flotation you need. We do ask that you are able to move yourself in the water to avoid hazards and reach the boat or shore, whichever is closest or as directed by your guide. On the lower Salmon trips, guests may go swimming while on the river with your guide's approval. Some places are not safe for swimming. 

What should I wear while rafting and what can I bring on the raft?

A recommended gear list is provided in the trip details, and you will receive follow-up emails leading up to the trip which also contain that information.

Are helmets required?

Helmets are mandatory on any rapids listed as class IV and above. While helmets are not mandated for class III and below, they are always provided and up to you to decide if you want to wear one.  However, below are some things to consider. 

  1. If your guide puts one on, put it on.
  2. White water rapids are made by rocks.
  3. You only get one noggin.
Do I have to sign a waiver?

Yes, we require each participant joining us on the river to sign a waiver. 

What do you do with my information?

We promise to never sell, share, or otherwise distribute your personal information to others. We hate junk mail and violations of our personal privacy just as much as you do. Most of the information is deleted after the trip. We do keep a log of participants so we can track numbers and to verify if a participant has already been on a trip that year. 

What if I'm running late?

If you believe you are going to be late, please call us as soon as possible. We will try to be accommodating, however, we have to leave by a certain time in order to get to camp before dinner. 

Can I bring my dog?

No. However, if you have a service dog please contact us and we will make accommodations. 

Can you customize a trip for my group?

We do VIP trips for groups so long as they are military Veterans or first responders. 

Where can I find a copy of your waiver?

For a copy of the waiver, please email us

Warrior Impact bracelet

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Take the pledge to help veterans and first responders. A limited edition Warrior Impact bracelet will be sent to you.