Food & Drink

White Water Rafting

Half-Day Whitewater Adventure – South Fork American River

Splash through Gold Country on this scenic, family-friendly rafting experience.



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Coloma

,

California

$

109

109 $

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what our clients say

Donna Pike

27 days ago on Google

★★★★★

My husband and I were downtown yesterday to provision more food for our boat trip, but decided we had to have a little treat before heading out, and the staff was super friendly and quick.

Amit Kumar

2 months ago

★★★★★

Great experience overall. The service was smooth, the ambience was nice, and the food quality was better than expected. Will visit again with family.

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Overview

Tucked into the Sierra Nevada foothills, the South Fork of the American River offers an exciting yet approachable rafting experience ideal for beginners, families, and thrill-seekers alike.

With over 20 exhilarating Class III rapids and a backdrop of Gold Rush history, this half-day trip is the perfect introduction to whitewater rafting. Paddle through calm pools and boulder-choked rapids alike, finishing with the adrenaline-pumping finale through “The Gorge.” Just east of Sacramento, this river run is packed with adventure, scenery, and stories of California’s past.

Duration: ~3.5 hours total (2 hours on river)
Minimum age: 9–12 (main season); 7+ in late season (depending on water levels)
Physical level: Moderate; no previous rafting experience required
Distance covered: ~10 miles of Class III rapids
Meals: Lunch not included; local eateries available nearby
What to bring: Swimsuit/quick-dry clothes, secure footwear, sunscreen, sunglasses with a strap
Provided gear: Helmets, life jackets, paddles, and wet suits if needed
Photography: On-river action shots available for purchase post-trip
Campground: Optional riverside tent cabins available at base camp
Restrooms and changing areas available on-site
Gratuity: Tips for guides are always appreciated

Full Description

Arrival and Check-In

Arrive at our riverside camp near Coloma, CA
Check in with your guides and complete a safety briefing

Orientation and Gear Up

Suit up with the provided wetsuits, life jackets, and helmets
Get a quick lesson in paddling techniques and river safety

Warm-Up Rapids and Scenic Float

Begin your half-day journey down the river
Enjoy a mix of calm stretches and beginner-friendly Class III rapids

The Gorge

Wrap up with a thrilling descent through “The Gorge” — the most exciting part of the river
Professional photos are taken along the way and are available for purchase afterward

End of Trip and Shuttle

Return to camp via shuttle
Enjoy post-trip beverages, change clothes, and browse your rafting photos

Availability

Important Information

What’s Included

Half-day guided rafting trip on the South Fork American River
Safety gear: helmets, PFDs, paddles
Free wetsuits and paddle jackets (when needed)
Professional river guides
Beverages at the end of the trip
Parking and shuttle transportation to/from the river

What to Bring

Swimsuit or quick-dry shorts
Secure water shoes or old tennis shoes (no flip-flops)
Sunscreen and sunglasses with a strap
Change of clothes for after the trip
Optional: hat (can be worn under helmet), windbreaker (early season)

Location & Meeting Point

The meeting point is near Coloma, CA, about an hour east of Sacramento
Specific location and directions provided in the confirmation email

Group Size

Small group experience for safety and fun
Great for families, friend groups, or first-time rafters

Age & Safety Requirements

Must meet age minimums based on season and river conditions
Participants should be able to swim and be in good physical condition

Weather and Cancellations

Trips run rain or shine; wetsuits provided for chilly weather
Water levels affect age minimums and trip availability
Cancellation policies are provided upon booking

Additional Policies

All participants must sign a waiver
Alcohol is prohibited before and during the trip
Pets and drones are not allowed on the river

Location

This experience does not have a physical location and can be attended online.

This experience will be held at a location of your choice within the service area.