Great option for rafting near Lake Tahoe, Sacramento & the Bay Area!
There are many memorable rapids as the South Fork American river winds its way through the scenic green and gold foothills of California’s Gold Rush Country. It passes through the historic town of Coloma and the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park.
When other California rafting trips have dried up, the South Fork American River is still providing an exciting and fun time. Great water releases are guaranteed past Labor Day weekend.
All South Fork American River rafting trips meet at our camp in the Coloma-Lotus area. Each rafting trip starts with an orientation and a safety talk. Personal flotation devices are fitted and paddling instruction is given. A professional, skilled river guide is on board every raft to help steer you safely down the river, as you power the raft with your paddle.
Camping can be arranged before or after any of our South Fork American River trips. Multi-day trip options include 1-2 nights camping.
Professional photography companies shoot at the major rapids on the river. You can view your photos online after your trip.
NOTICE: Water flows in the South Fork American River result from releases from hydroelectric facilities located upstream. Such water releases are not subject to the control of El Dorado County or commercial rafting companies operating under permit from the County of El Dorado.
Coloma/Lotus Area: Closest to rafting trip location.
Cameron Park: 25 minutes South of the rafting location, off Highway 50 and easy for those coming from the Bay Area.
Placerville: 20 minutes South of our rafting location, off Highway 50.
Coloma/Lotus Area: Closest to rafting trip location.
Camping available with Raft California at our South Fork American Riverside Campground!
Our camp features views of the river, facilities, Canvas Tent Rentals & a fun environment for families and groups.
Coloma/Lotus Area: Closest to rafting trip location.
Coloma/Lotus Area:
These are our staff favorites!
There is no local transportation to or around this rafting location as it is quite remote. Uber and Lyft do not exist here either.
With over 25 years of running the highest quality rafting trips and river tours, Raft California invites you to join us on one of our spectacular rafting adventures!
We have whitewater rafting trips on over 12 rivers in Northern California, Oregon, and into Nevada! Rivers include the South Fork American, Middle Fork American, North Fork American, North Yuba, Truckee, Tuolumne, Kaweah and more!.
Air Quality & Rafting Trips There are many fires raging in Northern California and the smoke is affecting the Sacramento & Lake Tahoe Areas. Most
Forest Service Closures halt rafting trips on theMiddle Fork American River Commercial rafting outfitters who hold permits on the Middle Fork American River were handed
