Adventure is in our roots
Our Story
OARS was founded in 1969 by river running pioneer George Wendt. By 1974 the company found its permanent home in Angels Camp, California where George and his wife Pam turned a fledgling rafting company into one of the most respected outfitting companies in the world. Today, their sons, Tyler and Clavey Wendt, are at the helm of the company.
The OARS Difference
Our mission is to have a positive impact on people’s lives and our natural world by providing outstanding river trips and other outdoor adventure experiences.
We’ve Got Talent
The OARS team includes more than 400 talented guides and employees, some of whom have been with us for decades. Get to know some of these esteemed professionals, their interests and what they love most about their job.
Responsible Travel
As stewards of more than 35 rivers and shorelines, our goal isn’t simply to be one of the most environmentally responsible tour operators in the world, but to continually raise the bar and challenge other companies to raise their standards as well.
Our Partners
OARS partners with the USFS, NPS, BLM and other agencies to provide unparalleled access to some of the last truly wild landscapes in the West and beyond. We are honored to work with these organizations, as well as our many sponsors, suppliers and trade organizations.
Follow us in the news
“Best River Trip,” “Best Guide,” & “Best Outfitter” by Outside
“Best River & Sea Outfitter
on Earth” by National
Geographic Adventure
“Best Guided Outdoor Trip” by Sunset
Pam & George Wendt Foundation
The Pam & George Wendt Foundation was created by veteran outfitter, OARS, with the vision to connect young people to one of the world’s greatest resources—our wild places.
The guides, the office staff, the pilots, the bus drivers, the food packers etc. were professional, courteous, and willing to go the extra mile no matter what it took! We have been on numerous rafting trips, but this was our first with OARS, I can guarantee it won’t be our last! Thank you to you all for running a first rate trip and making our river time special.
Hiker Girl Peoria, AZ
FIND YOUR PERFECT ADVENTURE
