Hazard Warning: Hazard information may be user-submitted and unverified. Conditions change frequently. Always scout rapids and obstacles yourself.

Rapid CA Class III

Oscar's Nightmare

American Whitewater 35.5998, -118.5020

Save this feature with the run it belongs to.

Gauge Conditions

Kern River near Democrat Springs(river Only) CA Downstream Primary

Runnable: ? – ? CFS

Approximate - nearest available gauge. Use as general reference only.

Data from American Whitewater & USGS

Photo

Photo courtesy of American Whitewater

Description

Oscar's Nightmare is a technical Class III rapid featuring a challenging entry with a tight, rocky start that demands precise boat positioning and quick maneuvering. The rapid contains several powerful hydraulic features and a series of large, irregularly spaced boulders that create unpredictable cross-currents, requiring paddlers to maintain constant situational awareness and execute precise boat control to successfully navigate the line. Swimmers should be prepared for potential pin hazards and aggressive water movement, particularly during higher flow conditions.