california rafting trips & vacations

South Fork American 1/2 Day PM Gorge Run

North Fork American River is a GO this Spring

Plan Your 2024 Vacation

RAFTING NEAR:

San Francisco Bay Area

Whitewater rafting trips near San Francisco and the Bay Area are as close as 2.5-3 hours away. The American Rivers provides the closest rafting trips. These are available April-September even in a drought!

Our American River trips have something for everyone. There are mild class 2 trips for kids from 4 yrs old. Exciting Class 2-3+ trips for beginners and return rafters. As well as some of the toughest whitewater for adventure seekers.

Come escape the city for a 1/2 day, 1 day trip, or overnight trip. River trip locations feature small town charm rich with gold mining history. There are a variety of accommodations, cuisine, and entertainment close to the rafting trips. Come for the day or make it a vacation. Families and groups will be sure to find the perfect itinerary. Overnight rafting trips include riverside camping and meals. Longer trips give you an opportunity to come spend a couple days on the water, sit back at our Riverside camp, and let us do the cooking for you!

Heading to Lake Tahoe? Our American River trips are convenient from I-80 and Highway 50!

Planning a rafting trip near San Francisco:

Whitewater rafting trips are convenient to the Bay Area. American River trips are the most popular from San Francisco. Your rafting adventure can be combined with several other opportunities. There are many outdoor activities including hiking, biking and horseback riding. For foodies there is an abundance of unique dining experiences. Wine and beer trials are a great addition to whitewater rafting for couples, bachelor and bachelorette parties…after your rafting trip! The area information page for each of the rivers provides links to visitor information for accommodations, restaurants and other places of interest.

Consider a San Francisco rafting trip for the following:

  • A family vacation with plenty of kid friendly sites including sporting events, trolley rides, zoos, and fun museums.
  • A sightseer / photographers paradise, points of interest include Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Pier 39.
  • Adventure seekers can enjoy rafting, wineries, group events, galleries, nightlife and endless possibilities when it comes to lodging and dining.
LOCAL LODGING PARTNERS
  • Groveland Hotel: (209) 962-4000 or (800) 273-3314
  • Hotel Charlotte: (209) 962-6455
  • All Seasons Groveland Inn: (800) 595-9993
  • Yosemite Rose: (866) 962-6548

For Vacation rentals in Truckee, CA and other Lake Tahoe Locations check with Vacasa Rentals first!