River Riders
River Riders
4.5
River Rafting & TubingZipline & Aerial Adventure ParksKayaking & Canoeing
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Monday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 6:00 PM
Full view

About
West Virginia whitewater rafting, tubing, zip line canopy tour, kayaking, canoeing, biking, climbing, team building, and outdoor adventure summer camps in Harpers Ferry and C and O Canal National Parks on the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. We are the closest outfitter to the Washington, DC, Baltimore, MD and Northern Virginia metro areas.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Travelers talk about



Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,225 reviews
Excellent
896
Very good
149
Average
57
Poor
51
Terrible
72
Quinton R
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
We arrived an hour early for our 2pm guided white water rafting trip. Our group consisted of me, my girlfriend and my mom. The facilities were clean and the staff was friendly. After a short safety video, which started at 2pm, we suited up and hopped onto a bus for a short ride to the launch site. Camille was our guide. She was pleasant, knowledgeable and experienced. She gave calm, clear instructions, effortlessly navigated the rocks and rapids and kept us from falling from the raft. Her love for adventure and knowledge of the birds on the river added a unique flavor to our experience. The views on the river are incredible. I would absolutely go again. Thank you Camille and River Riders for an amazing day on the Shenandoah!
Written August 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael C
Owings, MD296 contributions
Jul 2023
Fantastic experience for a first time white water rafter. This had always been on my bucket list but I didn't want to do it the first time in class IV or V rapids, so I chose to do it in the rivers around the Harper's Ferry area. River Riders got really good reviews from the majority of previous customers, so I chose to go with this company.
The entire operation, from check-in to finish, was very well run; the employees were very efficient and competent; the instructions they gave were very really good; and, our guide. Miranda, was great. She was very personable, knowledgeable, and funny which made the whole experience great. She is not that big physically, but she really earned her pay the day we went, getting us stuck off of all of the rocks we got stuck on (not her fault, every raft got stuck several times because the water level was so low). She was physically exhausted by the end of our trip because this was her second one of the day. But, she kept her spirits up and didn't let it get her down.
My wife has been white water rafting twice, on higher class rapids, but she had a really good time and was impressed with the company and Miranda.
After seeing the whitewater kayakers, we want to do this next and will definitely do it with River Riders.
The entire operation, from check-in to finish, was very well run; the employees were very efficient and competent; the instructions they gave were very really good; and, our guide. Miranda, was great. She was very personable, knowledgeable, and funny which made the whole experience great. She is not that big physically, but she really earned her pay the day we went, getting us stuck off of all of the rocks we got stuck on (not her fault, every raft got stuck several times because the water level was so low). She was physically exhausted by the end of our trip because this was her second one of the day. But, she kept her spirits up and didn't let it get her down.
My wife has been white water rafting twice, on higher class rapids, but she had a really good time and was impressed with the company and Miranda.
After seeing the whitewater kayakers, we want to do this next and will definitely do it with River Riders.
Written July 30, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank You Michael! Miranda is a great guide and we are happy to hear you enjoyed your trip with her. Please visit again and thank you for the review.
Written August 7, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
CoasterNerdett
Belfast, UK583 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
We got to the building early and were informed that due to a road closure and low water the whitewater tubing would be a bit more difficult, still doable but could be lengthy waits.
They offered to exchange this to the flat water tubing, which we accepted.
As our first time tubing on a river it was fantastic, gorgeous views, very relaxing. Glad we started on this one. Really hope to get back someday for the white water tubing.
All the staff were friendly and extremely helpful.
We got the red tracker tubes with paddle and I would recommend it for ease of movement.
They offered to exchange this to the flat water tubing, which we accepted.
As our first time tubing on a river it was fantastic, gorgeous views, very relaxing. Glad we started on this one. Really hope to get back someday for the white water tubing.
All the staff were friendly and extremely helpful.
We got the red tracker tubes with paddle and I would recommend it for ease of movement.
Written October 16, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank You! We appreciate the 5-Star review and are happy to hear you had a great trip.
Written June 13, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kate P
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Friends
This review is for the campground. I'm giving an extra star because we were able to check in early due to an emergency. We paid extra for a clifftop tent site with view of the river - there was no view, only trees. The tent sites were not level. Our neighbors were extremely noisy both during the day and throughout the night. They were up blasting music and talking very loudly until 4am; no exaggeration! The restrooms needed more cooling and ventilation for the hot, humid summertime. You can hear cars honking incessantly because of the nearby single-lane tunnel. The train, which is very close by and runs frequently, is loud 24/7. The campground store was in a semi-truck's metal trailer, but it did sell ice and expensive firewood. Overall, we were very unimpressed and will not be returning.
Written August 12, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jenna S
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
My family and I had an absolute blast throughout our experience. The rapids provided the perfect balance of fun, excitement, and peace. We spent about 2 hours on the water and were met with a few strides of calm waters, allowing us to take in all of the beauty. We also very much enjoyed the portions of the excursion that consisted of higher level rapids - a little splash of water didn't hurt! Our wonderful Guide, Sarah, enhanced the experience with her amazing navigation skills, clear direction, and seamlessly joined in on our family banter. We would pick her to be our guide any day! The views were amazing, we saw a few Herons and even an Eagle. This is not an overwhelming workout where you are constantly paddling non stop; You have plenty of chances to rest.
PS. You will be required to watched a safety documentary; Pay attention! One of our neighboring rafts had a child fall out and we we're able to quickly assist in returning him to this raft safely.
PS. You will be required to watched a safety documentary; Pay attention! One of our neighboring rafts had a child fall out and we we're able to quickly assist in returning him to this raft safely.
Written August 23, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin W
Mount Laurel, New Jersey, United States11 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
For $100 a night we expected a well maintained campground with sites that were either paved or had enough rock that covered the mud. Instead we found a campground with random piles of discarded junk, old rotting structures from a no longer used zip line course, and a narrow area with stone for RVs. Picnic tables were on a wet muddy area that would still have been dirty even without recent rain. Also the location of the firepit makes it difficult to use if you have a rear slideout. The view of the lake was wonderful and the staff were very friendly. Also the proximity to lower Harpers Ferry was great. A 1.5 mile hike through the woods takes you right into the town.
Written May 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey Robin,
Thanks for staying with us and providing your feedback. Thanks for your compliments of the view and our staff! We completed an upgrade of electric and sewer to many of our waterfront sites over the winter and some of the grass hasn't come in yet. We are working diligently to finish all the upgrades, and the material will all be moved in the next few weeks. I'm sorry that it took away from your experience with us. Thanks again for your stay.
Written May 25, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
MomProfessional
Chevy Chase, MD4 contributions
Aug 2021
We enjoyed the flat water tubing on the Shenandoah. It is relaxing and we saw many water birds. On the river itself, River Riders offers essentially the same flat water tubing experience as its competitors on the Shenandoah at Harpers Ferry. But I would not recommend choosing River Riders, for a few reasons:
(1) every other river outfitter I have ever used for tubing (including other outfitters on the Shenandoah) provide a courtesy rope for tying your inner tubes to others in your group. But River Riders did not provide any rope, and instead said our only option was to buy connecting ropes from them for $6.99 apiece. We needed multiple ropes to keep our group together. What a money grab! Because we were with kids, we felt no choice but to pay the price, but I would never go to this company again after this. They should at least tell people clearly on their website that they do not provide courtesy ropes for tying inner tubes together, so you can bring your own.
(2) River Riders said the trip would take 2.5 to 3 hours. Our time on the river was only hour and 45 minutes. The rest of the time was spent signing waivers and waiting for transportation. After all the fees and extras we paid (roughly $50 per person), it was overpriced for what we received, just one short trip down the Shenandoah.
(3) River Riders is located away from the river access point. So when you get out of the river you have to wait for a ride back to your car in one of their buses. The other outfitters allow you to park at the river access point, which is far more convenient. We waited 20 minutes for a ride at the end.
(4) we purchased a floating cooler from River Riders to hold our lunch. They gave it to us partially deflated and said they would inflate it the rest of the way at the riverside. We had to flag the bus driver down as he was leaving, and talk him into inflating our cooler after he initially said he didn't know what we were talking about and claimed he had no way to inflate the cooler. He ultimately did inflate it but we had to press the issue.
(1) every other river outfitter I have ever used for tubing (including other outfitters on the Shenandoah) provide a courtesy rope for tying your inner tubes to others in your group. But River Riders did not provide any rope, and instead said our only option was to buy connecting ropes from them for $6.99 apiece. We needed multiple ropes to keep our group together. What a money grab! Because we were with kids, we felt no choice but to pay the price, but I would never go to this company again after this. They should at least tell people clearly on their website that they do not provide courtesy ropes for tying inner tubes together, so you can bring your own.
(2) River Riders said the trip would take 2.5 to 3 hours. Our time on the river was only hour and 45 minutes. The rest of the time was spent signing waivers and waiting for transportation. After all the fees and extras we paid (roughly $50 per person), it was overpriced for what we received, just one short trip down the Shenandoah.
(3) River Riders is located away from the river access point. So when you get out of the river you have to wait for a ride back to your car in one of their buses. The other outfitters allow you to park at the river access point, which is far more convenient. We waited 20 minutes for a ride at the end.
(4) we purchased a floating cooler from River Riders to hold our lunch. They gave it to us partially deflated and said they would inflate it the rest of the way at the riverside. We had to flag the bus driver down as he was leaving, and talk him into inflating our cooler after he initially said he didn't know what we were talking about and claimed he had no way to inflate the cooler. He ultimately did inflate it but we had to press the issue.
Written August 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi MomProfessional, we are sorry for any confusion regarding inflating your cooler. We do have inflators on most of our buses and will help to get tube inflated when we can. While we are not located by the water our main base does have a complimentary rinse station, a retail store, indoor bathrooms, lockers and expanded parking areas. We hope you visit again.
Written September 5, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marietta F
Bartlett, IL38 contributions
Sep 2021 • Friends
Ryan was a great guide on our rafting adventure. The downside was that he was responsible for kayakers going down the rapids at the same time. Multiple times he had to stop the raft to wait for them or give them instructions. He did a great job but suggest the company send another guide for the kayakers because it definitely impacted our ride. With that said there were other employees on kayaks but he said he was the only paid guide so ultimately they were his responsibility.
Written September 14, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank You Dakota! Please visit in the spring time when the water is typically higher with bigger rapids. We will be sure to share your review with Ryan.
Written September 21, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Bob H
5 contributions
Jul 2022
Friendly staff, good bus drivers to and from the tubing launch and pick-up sites. I felt that for the price, the tubing itself ended too quickly. We were on the water at most for an hour and 10 minutes. While River Riders can't control the river, I felt like I spent more time signing in, watching the safety video and riding on or waiting for the transport bus. Having said that, the river was fun while it lasted. I don't think I'd go out of my way to do this again here.
Written July 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vzz2
Lewisburg, WV23 contributions
Jul 2021
This was a fun floating experience, however there are some improvements that need to be made.
Two of our 4 life vests smelled like they hadn’t been washed in years. We had to exchange them before we left the parking lot. They were vile.
Once we arrived at the drop off point there were not enough of the type of rafts reserved for at least half of the bus load of people. We waited in the lot for over 20 min for someone to get bolt cutters to open a truck that had more rafts. However once opened most of the rafts were deflated and unusable. We ended up having to take whatever tubes were available even though we paid for the more expensive tubes.
The young man helping us with the tubes couldn’t have been nicer though. Not much he could do other than call up at the main building.
The porta John’s were filthy and most were lacking in TP.
Two of our 4 life vests smelled like they hadn’t been washed in years. We had to exchange them before we left the parking lot. They were vile.
Once we arrived at the drop off point there were not enough of the type of rafts reserved for at least half of the bus load of people. We waited in the lot for over 20 min for someone to get bolt cutters to open a truck that had more rafts. However once opened most of the rafts were deflated and unusable. We ended up having to take whatever tubes were available even though we paid for the more expensive tubes.
The young man helping us with the tubes couldn’t have been nicer though. Not much he could do other than call up at the main building.
The porta John’s were filthy and most were lacking in TP.
Written July 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are sorry we did not meet your expectations and appreciate your feedback. We have taken the steps to correct the issues you mentioned. We hope you visit with us again.
Written August 23, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I'm bringing a group of teens from Denmark to Harpers Ferry this October. Is this something they'd like? What does it cost?
Written July 18, 2024
Is there a bicycle trail around the campgrounds or from the campground to Harper's Ferry National historic area? Looking for something relatively flat as we have a 5 year old bike rider with us. Trying to decide if bringing our bikes is worth it. Thanks!
Written August 28, 2022
I did not stay at River Riders campground. I stayed at Koa Battlefield which is 10 minutes away from River riders. I know there is a walking trail but probably not good for bikes.
Written August 30, 2022
How deep is the water for flat water tubing. Is it easy to get to the exit point? Is it obvious or is there a chance to miss it and get lost?
Written August 27, 2021
The depth of the water is constantly changing based on rainfall upstream.
The exit points are clear and they make sure you understand this prior to drop off.
Written August 28, 2021
Going white water rafting for the first tine at end of August. Wondering what clothes/shoes are appropriate? Is there a kicker to store things and change clothes/shoes after? Thanks!
Written August 21, 2020
I love river riders but I was amazed at all the friggin trash all over the banks of the rivers from all those families partying there. Loud club music had us shook. This is a nature area. Who is in charge of regulating the area. It would be nice to have some trash pick ups or more trash bins around for the riders. The other people need dumpsters. In a few years it will really put a hurting on your businesses. Just one persons observance. I think we will look at other areas for tubing in the future because of the trash and MIAMI like club atmosphere.
Written July 20, 2020
Hello, I'd like to know how cold can we expect the water to be in late September 2019? We're thinking about wearing wet suits. This would be for white water rafting. We're all adult beginners and everyone can swim. Thanks!
Written September 12, 2019
You'll only need a shirt and swim suit that time of year...the air can be colder than the water at times.
Written September 22, 2019
How cold can we expect the water to be in late September 2019? We're thinking about wearing wet suits.
Written September 12, 2019
My son and I only did the zipline. Not the water sports.
Written September 16, 2019
Is there a combo pack for guided whitewater raft & zipline done in one day?
Written July 31, 2018
You do get a small discount for booking both - $5 per person.
Written July 31, 2018
Showing results 1-10 of 22
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.