In the 1970s in Ensenada there was a street that crossed a low river in the
middle of town, and the locals simply drove their cars or trucks across the
50 or 60 foot passage, which was maybe a foot deep at center. Of course I
had to try it--in my 1976 Dodge Colt, loaded with four college kids, a two
year old, and an acoustic guitar. It pushed its way through the river just
fine. Some water leaked through the doors but that was all. I wouldn't
hesitate to do the same crossing in a Vanagon, but anything with a stronger
current would make me hesitate. I'd also do it minus the children this time.