The Rio Chama flows through 35 miles of remote river wilderness below El Vado reservoir near Chama, New Mexico. The Chama has been protected as a Wild and Scenic River since 1988. The moderate Class II-III whitewater flows through an exquisite and pristine river environment distinguished by sage-covered hillsides, heavily-forested canyons, and red sandstone cliffs. A two or three day trip provides the leisurely pace to soak in the sun and solitude, explore side canyons or learn to paddle inflatable kayaks or canoes in the swift-moving but very reasonable rapids. These trips run from May to late August.. Special recreational water releases also make boating possible on weekends through August. Our launches are exclusive and guarantee a wilderness experience. Choose this southwestern jewel for a retreat with a small group of friends and family for a weekend of relaxation and fun.
- MINIMUM AGE: 8
- GROUP SIZE: 16
- CLASS: II and easy III rapids
- BOAT TYPE: Oar boats, paddle boats on request
- COST: 3 Day trip: Adult – $ 495, Youth 8-12 yrs. – $ 345. A $ 4.10 per person per day BLM Use Fee must be added to above rates. These rates apply to open dates only. See trip pages for details for the Music, Plein Air or Geology trip for pricing.
- 2012 LAUNCH DATES:
- April 27-29 - Plein Air Painting with Cody DeLong
- May 26-28, Memorial Day Music trip with Chuck Pyle
- August 10-12 – Geology with Dr. Kate Ziegler
- May 9, May 11, July13, July 20. August 24. These open launch dates may be a 2 or 3 day trip for your group. Other dates may be available for groups of 10+.
Click here to make a reservation.












