If you go out to Shady Cove there are some great inexpensive options for floating down the river with a group of friends. If you go out to Grants Pass or Gold Hill you definitely want a guide and possibly a helmet. Depending on the time of year the water can be very high and freezing. You'll want to have a 4 person raft minimum for any of the sections of the river and be ready for some beautiful views with lots of nature.