For 50 years, the Ottawa River’s Rocher Fendu section—nicknamed “Split Rock”—has captivated adventurers with its fierce, whitewater rapids and scenic beauty. Known for its deep, wave-filled currents, this stretch of the river has become one of the world’s premier whitewater rafting destinations. But it wasn’t always this way. In 1975, Wilderness Tours pioneered rafting on the Ottawa River, making its mark on the outdoor adventure scene and creating the first-ever adventure resort in North America. Today, Wilderness Tours remains the region’s premier resort, offering a unique blend of thrilling outdoor adventure and mindful environmental stewardship.
Over its half-century of operation, Wilderness Tours has protected more than 4,000 acres of pristine waterfront, helping preserve the wild beauty of one of the last untouched sections of the Ottawa River. This commitment to conservation isn’t just talk—it’s a way of life here.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Wilderness Tours has you covered. From the highest water levels to the biggest rapids, their High Adventure and Sport Rafting trips provide heart-pounding excitement that will test even the most seasoned paddlers. Add to that the downhill mountain biking park, featuring over 300 feet of vertical drop, and you’ve got a full-on adrenaline playground. And when the day’s over, head to Rafter’s Pavilion, the resort’s fully licensed restaurant and bar, where you can unwind with live music, lawn games, and plenty of food and drinks to refuel.
But Wilderness Tours isn’t just about big thrills—it’s also the perfect family getaway.
For families looking to introduce their kids to whitewater rafting, Wilderness Tours offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Kids as young as five can take on the Ottawa River’s middle channel in rafts designed for all skill levels. After a day of fun-filled rapids, body surfing, and riverside snacks, families paddle back to the resort, located just at the end of the river’s whitewater section—think of it like the base village of a ski hill but on water. This means we’re not burning daylight with our trips, there are no long bus or boat rides back to the resort, tand he fun continues immediately as you touch down on the shore.
The resort boasts the only inflatable water park on the Ottawa River, along with sit-on-top kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. For those wanting to explore more land-based activities, there’s a mountain biking park with trails suitable for all skill levels, including a pump track and green and blue trails.
If whitewater rafting isn’t your thing but you still crave adventure, Wilderness Tours offers a more relaxed experience. Their beginner rafting trips down the middle channel of the Ottawa River are perfect for adults who want to enjoy the river at a more leisurely pace. Regardless of your chosen experience, you’ll still have full access to the resort’s amenities—from the inflatable water park to the mountain biking trails and Lazy River tubing, where you can float through the scenic, wild beauty of the Ottawa River.
And speaking of the Lazy River, it’s one of the resort’s hidden gems. This gentle, guided tubing experience is available to guests ages 3 and up, and it’s the perfect way to enjoy the river’s beauty without breaking a sweat. Pro tip: Later in the season, large sandbars emerge, creating perfect spots to kick back and soak up some sun.
Wilderness Tours offers a full spectrum of rafting experiences, from day trips to multi-day adventures. Guests can stay in a variety of accommodations, including tent campsites, RV sites, glamping tents, hostel units, cabins, and cottages that sleep anywhere from 8 to 12 people. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple, or a family looking for a unique vacation, Wilderness Tours has you covered.
Wilderness Tours is also home to the world-renowned Ottawa Kayak School, established in 1980. The only full-service kayak school resort on the Ottawa River, it attracts paddlers from across the globe. The school offers specialized programs for adults, teens, and kids, all designed to enhance personal development through whitewater kayaking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, the expert instructors here tailor each lesson to your intensity level and goals.
This summer, Wilderness Tours is bringing even more excitement to family getaways with the launch of their highly anticipated Kids Day Camp for 2025. Tailored for children ages 3 and up, this camp blends adventure, education, and fun in the heart of nature. Young adventurers will embark on exciting outdoor activities, discover the wonders of the natural world, and gain new skills—all while creating memories that will last a lifetime.
What sets this camp apart is its unique bilingual experience. Led by a passionate team, including a French Educational Assistant, kids will engage in lessons and activities in both English and French, giving them the opportunity to immerse themselves in a second language while enjoying all the fun.
And while the kids are busy exploring, parents can take the opportunity to up the ante and tackle bigger whitewater rapids—perfect for those looking to push their limits. With a minimum age of 13 and a weight requirement of 90 pounds, it’s the ideal chance to experience the thrill of rafting while your little ones are safely at play.
There’s a reason why 4 out of 5 whitewater rafters on the Ottawa River choose Wilderness Tours. With its breathtaking location, unparalleled adventure opportunities, and commitment to sustainability, Wilderness Tours is more than just a place to play—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the river’s last wave.
Ready to see for yourself? Come discover why Wilderness Tours is the premier whitewater rafting and resort destination on the Ottawa River.
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