Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear out on the River?

We recommend wearing clothes and shoes that you are ok getting wet. Moisture wicking fabrics are best as they dry quickly. Avoid cotton clothing as it takes a long time to dry and can keep you cold.

Do you provide life jackets?

We do provide life jackets at no additional cost for all of our rentals, tours and classes. We have a variety of sizes to fit many body types.

Are there rapids?

Unless a trip is a whitewater specific trip you will not have to go through any rapids.

Do you provide lunch?

We do provide a sack lunch for all of our full day tours. You can choose your sandwich preference at the same time you make your reservation, vegetarian options are available.

Are dogs allowed on tours?

Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on any of our tours or classes.

Can we do a custom trip?

We can do custom trips and tours. These can be contingent upon availability of our guides and vehicles. Please email [email protected] for more information and pricing.

Can I bring my own gear?

If you have your own gear and or boat you are more than welcome to bring your gear to the classes. It is always good to practice in the same equipment you will use after the class.

Can kids come to these lessons?

We have a strict age requirement of 15 for standard lessons. If you have a child younger than 15 please check out our offerings for Tumalo Kids or email [email protected] to get information on private classes.

Do I have to get on the water?

If you are taking a class we do require you to come out on the water and practice the techniques we are covering. Though we start on land most of our instruction is on the water so students can try the new skill in real time.

Do I have to participate in the self rescue?

It is entirely optional but highly recommended that you try your hand at a self rescue during class. Practice makes perfect and what better way to practice than by having a certified instructor right there with you.

Will I fall in?

It is entirely possible that you will fall in the water. We will always suit you up with all of the necessary safety gear for the discipline you are participating in, and our certified instructors are well versed in water rescues. But still, be prepared to swim.

How big are the camps?

Our kids' camps have a 6 to 1 ratio for kids and instructors with a maximum occupancy of 12 kids per camp.

Are lunches included?

We do not provide lunches for our kids' camps. Please pack your child their lunch and enough snacks to get them through the day.

What should my kid wear?

Please pay attention to the weather and make sure your child is wearing the appropriate clothing to be comfortable for the entire day. Plan for cooler mornings and warmer afternoons. There is also a strong likelihood that your child will go swimming; swimwear, sun protection, sunglasses and water shoes that won't accidentally fall off should be considered.

Is my kid old enough?

Our kids adventure camp is designed for 8–15-year-olds; our whitewater camps are for children 10-16.

What should I wear out on the River?

We recommend wearing clothes and shoes that you are ok getting wet. Moisture wicking fabrics are best as they dry quickly. Avoid cotton clothing as it takes a long time to dry and can keep you cold.

How do I transport my rental boat?

You can transport our hardshell rental boats and paddle boards with a truck or any vehicle that has secure cross bars. We do offer inflatable options in both kayaks and paddleboards if you do not have a vehicle with the above requirements or if you are uncomfortable strapping your rental equipment to your car.

Do you have waterproof cell phone cases?

We do have waterproof cell phone cases and other dry accessories for purchase at both our primary retail location and our Park and Float location.

Do you rent water shoes?

We do rent adult size wetsuit booties from our primary retail location at 805 SW Industrial Way in Bend Oregon for $10 a day.

Can I wear my flip flops?

We highly recommend that you wear shoes that can not accidentally fall off. There are many hazards in the river, such as rocks, mud, tree roots and seaweed, that could cause you to trip or injure yourself.

Where do I park my car?

We have lots of parking at all of our locations. Our primary retail location is in the Old Mill District and has a large parking area in front of the shop that you can utilize when renting. Park and Float location, is located in a large parking area. We will transport you to the river and back to your car from that location for our river tube float operation. River Bend Park offers a large number of public parking spots. Though these can fill up quickly on weekends and during events.

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome however we do reserve the right to refuse dogs at the discretion of Tumalo Creek’s staff. There is a $15 nonrefundable dog deposit for Paddleboards, Kayaks, and Canoes. WE DO NOT ALLOW DOGS ON TUBES OR OTHER INFLATABLES.

Do I have to paddle up the river?

If you are renting either a kayak, paddleboard, or canoe you will need to paddle up river at some point during your tour. The river is slow moving and relatively easy to paddle against but can be challenging for children.

How can I try before I buy?

Our location in Bend is right on the river in the Old Mill District. We have our own private dock that we can use to get you out on the water to try any product before purchase. Please note that we are slower during the week and can offer you a much better demo experience during those days. However, we are here for you! So if weekends work best then do not hesitate to come and demo.

What is your return policy?

We of course accept returns with any unused product, with receipt, within 30 days of purchase. You are welcome to create a profile with us so that we can keep track of your receipts for you.

Can I place a special order through you?

We can absolutely place a special order with any brand we are open with. Ordering through a store can help with shipping logistics (no wandering packages off your front porch), product questions, and in some cases can expedite shipping. All special orders do require full payment at the time of request which will include shipping.