We rate the California’s South Fork of the American River as the best river in California for both first-time and more experienced rafters. As the most popular river in California, California’s South Fork of the American River is a consistent Class II-III+, beginning-level whitewater river.
California’s South Fork of the American River has become the most popular river in California for individuals, families, groups of friends and company recreation trips, available daily from April through September. The river offers a wide range of adventures, with over 50 exciting rapids interspersed with calm, slower stretches where we can enjoy the beauty of the river canyon.
Buccaneer’s Bay is an incredibly beautiful beach area in a section of the river reachable only by boat. The land is administered by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management), and we have obtained a permit to use it. The BLM provides porta-toilets. Camping is on the beach; about 100 feet from the beach is a thick forest of cottonwood and pine trees.
There is opportunity to explore the area by foot. Sunday morning, while we are waiting for the dam-released water to reach us, we will have ample opportunity to relax, swim, and explore the area. You will feel like you truly are on an isolated river.
The South Fork is the most popular river in California for everyone to enjoy beautiful wilderness, comfortable river-front camping, nutritious and hearty meals, and fun, exciting, and safe rafting.
Evening before your trip: June 8, Camping at the Mariah’s South Fork of the American River Campground this night is included in the price of your trip. We request that you come anytime after 5-6 PM. Our Camp Hostess will greet you, give you any rentals you have reserved, and show you where you may camp. We have reserved The Swimming Hole for Friday night's camping.
If you have reserved a tent from us it will be already put up for you. There are several nice restaurants nearby where you may enjoy a lovely dinner. Other Mariah trips’ participants will be camping in other sections of the Mariah Campground.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: June 9, Breakfast is served in the main kitchen at 8 A.M. Have your gear packed when you come for breakfast. We will gather at 9 A.M.for the trip orientation, board our river bus about 9:30 and drive the 40-minutes to the beginning of the river-Chili Bar Put-In where we will start our river journey.
We will enjoy lunch on the river, and then raft to our new wilderness digs at Buccaneer’s Bay. You will be able to enjoy billions of stars, wide sandy beaches, scrumptious meals, and the thrill of being in the wilderness. We call our NEW WILDERNESS CAMP Buccaneer’s Bay, and we think you will love it! L, D
Day 2: June 10, Sunday morning you will be able to wake up leisurely, enjoy the absolutely pristine and quiet morning in this beautiful section of the river canyon. You may want to do some reading, relaxing, hiking, and swimming while we wait for the dam-released water to reach us.
We will take out of the river about 3 P. M., drive you back to our main South Fork Campground where your gear awaits you. There will be a short slide show presentation of your two days of rafting. You will be ready to depart for home by 4 P.M. B, L
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- 2 nights - 21 miles
- 2 days of rafting
- 5 meals
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