Climbing and rafting on the Kern...

A handful of us were suppose to sign up for an overnight rafting trip but not all of us were able to get in together. My question is this, are there decent sections of the river we can do our own rafting on with cheap inflatables? Are there any permits needed to do personal rafting? I'd like to be near Kern Slabs to get some climbing in. How about the name of a reservable campsite near the slabs or some short hike in sites?
I'll do some self research later but wanted to know what others thought and perhaps hear of your experiences. Thank you.

Do you have any experience rafting on your own? A lot of people have lost their lives in the Kern, aka: The River of Death (that was meant to be overly dramatic)

After some research I realize rafting may not be for us. I'm thinking that tubing would be more ideal for our group if there's an area around that would be gentle and more ideal.

Erskine Fire

George Wu wrote:Erskine Fire

JoeGaribay wrote: Gahh dammit! I was planning on going north of kernville. Smoke must be bad up there though. Bummer.