Be a River Hero: 10 Simple Ways to Protect California's Rivers This Summer

A simple guide to keeping California's rivers fun, safe, and beautiful for everyone. 

South Fork Yuba River

There are few things better than a California river in the summertime. Cold water on a hot day. Sunlight dancing across the current. Kids laughing from the shoreline. Friends floating downstream. Eagles overhead and granite boulders warmed by the afternoon sun. 

Our rivers give us unforgettable adventures, but they need our help in return. Whether you're rafting, swimming, fishing, hiking, or simply soaking up the scenery, these ten simple habits help protect the places we all love. 

1. Park Like a Good Neighbor

If the parking lot is full, don't invent a new parking spot. Stay out of ditches, avoid blocking gates, and leave room for emergency vehicles. Sometimes the best adventure starts by discovering a different river access point. 

2. Leave Nothing Behind

If you brought it with you, take it home. That includes snack wrappers, cans...and yes, even banana peels. Every piece of trash removed is one less thing that ends up in our rivers. Leave memories, not litter.

3. Scoop the Poop

We love river dogs. Just remember to pack waste bags and carry them out. Nobody wants an unexpected surprise on the trail or in the river. 

4. Skip the Campfire

Summer and wildfire don't mix. Many California rivers prohibit fires during fire season, and for good reason. Check local restrictions before your trip and help keep our forests, and nearby communities, safe. 

5. Wear Your Life Jacket 

Rivers are beautiful and powerful. If you're boating or rafting, wear a properly fitted life jacket and bring the right safety gear. The best river trip is the one everyone comes home from. 

6. Glass Belongs at Home 

Broken glass and bare feet are a terrible combination. Choose reusable bottles, aluminum cans, or other safer alternatives to protect people, pets, and wildlife. 

7. Let Nature Stay Wild

Take photos—not wildflowers. Stay on established trails, leave rocks where they are, and give wildlife plenty of space. Every visitor has a chance to help protect these fragile places. 

8. Share the River

California's rivers belong to all of us. Give paddlers room to pass, keep music at a respectful volume, and offer a friendly smile. A little kindness makes every river day better. 

9. Love the River Towns Too 

The communities that welcome river visitors help make these adventures possible. Grab lunch at a local café, rent gear from a nearby outfitter, or browse a local shop. Supporting small businesses helps keep river communities thriving. 

10. Know Before You Go 

Every river changes. Check water levels, weather, fire restrictions, and local regulations before heading out. A few minutes of planning can make the difference between a stressful day and an unforgettable one. 

Every Visitor Makes a Difference

The choices we make on the river matter. When thousands of people each do a little—pack out trash, respect wildlife, wear life jackets, support local communities—it adds up to healthier rivers and better experiences for everyone. 

This summer, be more than a visitor. Be a river hero. Because the best way to thank a river for an amazing day...is to leave it just as beautiful as you found it.  

Dive In with Us!

Protecting California's rivers doesn't end when your river trip is over. Whether you give, volunteer, or raise your voice, you can help ensure these incredible places remain healthy and accessible for future generations. 

• Donate to support the year-round work of protecting and restoring California's rivers.  

• Become a Member and join a community of river advocates making a difference across the state.  

• Subscribe to The River Advocate to receive river news, conservation victories, action alerts, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming events delivered to your inbox.  

• Join the River Activist Network and turn your passion into action through advocacy, community outreach, and opportunities to speak up for California's rivers.  

Together, we can keep California's rivers flowing free—for people, fish, and future generations.