South Fork American River Camping

Agency for Land Management With the exception of the South Fork of the American River, free camping is permitted on the majority of B.L.M. land in California. On B.L.M. property, dispersed camping means staying at unimproved campsites. You can locate a location by scanning the nearby gravel roads for abandoned campsites. They might have a fire pit nearby and packed-down earth in a cleared-out space. A dispersed camping site has a 14-day maximum stay restriction. Along the American River’s South Fork, there are a number of campgrounds. Camping areas and river access are available at The Camp Lotus, Coloma Resort, and American River Resort. On the side of the South Fork American River, there are a few alternatives for camping. Many of these are campgrounds that are privately owned and serve the whitewater rafting community. The majority of government parks and public properties are regarded as day-use only, with a few notable outliers in the canyon’s most isolated areas.

Camp Autos, American River South Fork

On the South Fork, the American River’s bank is Camp Lotus Lodge & Campground. An ideal setting for ceremonies, celebrations, meetings, or just setting up a tent on the lush grass next to the river. With some basic luxuries like a muffin and an espresso in the morning, we work to provide visitors with the special experience of being completely outside. Come on over and walk, ride, kayak, float, or just find a nice tree to read beneath while the river hums nearby. Gather your pals for dinner while gazing into a campfire. Sleep outside under the stars. Warming up in the morning with a hot shower, a warm muffin, and steaming coffee. Our facilities include more than 30 campsites that can accommodate everyone from couples and families to large parties, six charming cottages, a tipi by the river, ten R.V. hookup sites, a magnificent open grassy space for events, and a stunning Event Hall. There are lots of miles of hiking and bike trails within a five-minute drive. For groups of two to forty people, Camp Lotus offers thirty grassy, irrigated tent camping spots with nearby parking. Every campsite has a fire ring (with a fire grate) and the appropriate number of picnic tables to match the size of your particular group. Two separate restrooms and shower facilities with flush toilets and hot water are available to all campers. You are allowed to bring your own firewood to Camp Lotus in addition to buying it there. In order to make your weekend break even more enjoyable, Camp Lotus takes great satisfaction in offering campsites that give both individuals and groups a sense of being in the outdoors while also having the conveniences you need. The campground is covered in trees, which offer a lot of shade throughout the summer. All campsites have access to the South Fork American River’s broad riverfront. There are lots of places to explore, small coves, secret fishing holes, and beach access points.

The Campground At South Fort American River

Take advantage of everything the Sierras have to offer. The American River Resort in Coloma is situated in the heart of California’s Gold Country and is tucked away on 30 wooded acres along the American River’s bank. The Resort may be reached from San Francisco or Reno in a few hours by car and is situated halfway between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. Both getting there and staying here are simple.

Whitewater rafting and overnight camping are both available at American River Resort. A river cruise, a luxury cabin, or a camping or R.V. site can all be reserved at once. Even camping supplies and food may be bought right here. Experience our in-ground pool, stocked fishing pond, river access, play areas, complimentary hot showers, and picnic tables and fire pits at each site. As you enjoy all the fun that is around and can be reached within a short walk or drive, American River Resort is a convenient base camp. River tubing, hiking, fishing, seeing historical sites, and day trips to Folsom Lake or even Lake Tahoe are all popular activities. Let American River Resort be your home base while exploring El Dorado County on vacation. The American River Resort stands out due to its special connection to the American River and the American River Canyon, both of which have beautiful settings and interesting histories. The river has been preserved clean thanks to conservation measures, preserving its “wildness” as California’s favorite whitewater river. Camping here allows you to experience the unadulterated power and beauty of a significant western river habitat.

What Makes The Cabin Tents At South Fort American River Camping Resort Great?

The greatest site on the American River, together with comfort and convenience. Correct, there is no setup! You may move in, unwind, and enjoy one of our cabin tents right away.

The canvas tents are manufactured by hand in Montana and are strong and waterproof. They are seated on elevated wooden platforms with chairs facing the American River and deck rails. All you need to bring are your sleeping bags, blankets, and pillows because there are cozy cots and sleeping pads already set up inside. The platform cabin tents are the greatest riverfront cabin tents on the American River and are only a short distance from the river. Additionally, each cabin tent camp area has its own fire pit and picnic table. There is no finer location along the American River!

Platform tents and where to find the biggest quick at the South Fork of the American River, Troublemaker, is located 100 feet straight upstream of South Fort American River Camping Resort Platform Cabin Tents 1 and 2. You may enjoy unobstructed views of rafts and kayaks navigating the rapids while sitting outside on the deck. Additionally, Mount Murphy offers unrivaled views, and the springtime wildflower display is magnificent.

Upstream of Troublemaker, in the Platform Cabin Tents 3 to 9, are the best spots to enjoy the peace and calm of the river. The shower and bathroom facilities, as well as all of the Resort services, are only a short 5–10 minute walk from these cabin tents, which are located in a rather private stretch of the river.

This Summer’s Recreational Adventure At South Fort American River Camping Resort

The South Fork, a branch of the American River, is popular with both rafters and kayakers because it has some of the best whitewater rapids in the Western United States. Although the river’s roar is thrilling, the surroundings might be even more stunning. Along the river, groves of oak trees give way to magnificent hiking routes in the Tahoe and El Dorado National Forests and a lush, animal-filled natural environment. The South Fork is well renowned for its rafting, but there are also many other undiscovered attractions there, including camping grounds, historical sites, and more. Whatever your interests, South Fork is the ideal location to reacquaint yourself with nature. A few of the peak things to do in South Fork are listed below.

Fork South-Rafting

Let’s start with the rapids that make South Fork famous. Class II, III, and IV South Fork rapids stretch for 21 miles and are suitable for rafters of all levels of skill.

From Coloma to Lotus

There are extensive expanses of quiet pools, a pleasant river, and occasionally faster-moving rapids. For novices, this stretch works wonders.

Racehorse Bend to Maya

For a more thrilling sequence of rapids and stunning scenery, intermediate rafters should explore Chili Bar’s upper stretch. Since trips to Middle Fork often last a day, lunch is frequently included in rafting packages for this adventure.

If you’re an experienced rafter, Troublemaker, a Class IV rapid might be for you. Advanced rafters savor Troublemaker’s steep diagonal wave and large drop near Gunsight Rock, which is thought to be the most difficult rapid on the South Fork. There are a few challenging Class III rapids that are worthwhile to run as well if you are entering South Fork closer to the lower Gorge region, such as Satan’s Cesspool and Hospital Bar.

Professionally led white water rafting excursions are offered by several businesses, along with the appropriate gear. One-quarter-day to three-day trips are offered by two of the most renowned whitewater outfitters, American Whitewater Expeditions and American River Recreation. Try EarthTrek Expeditions, American River Raft Rentals, OARS American River Rafting, and Beyond as additional recreation providers.

American River Camping Trails Of The South Fork

A hike is the best way to appreciate South Fork’s extraordinary splendor. A significant portion of the area surrounding the river was donated to the Bureau of Land Management in an effort to preserve wildlife while promoting outdoor recreation. With its vast land formations, vistas, and trees, South Fork has a variety of terrain types. Any level of hiker will enjoy the great hiking paths near South Fork, and some even permit mountain biking and horseback riding.

South Fork American River Route

The South Fork American River trail has a number of entry locations, including Salmon Falls, the Greenwood Creek River, the Magnolia Ranch Trailhead, and Cronan Ranch Regional Trails Park. The 11-mile track is perfect for intermediate and experienced hikers due to its hills and length. Hikers, mountains, and bikers can take in breathtaking views of the river and surrounding woodland throughout the route. The best seasons for this trip are spring and fall due to the lower sun exposure, cooler temperatures, and stunning flower and leaf color. This track is open to mountain biking and equestrian riding.

Trail Quarry

The Quarry Trail is a short distance from South Fork. Beginner and intermediate hikers can use its 5.6-mile track, which follows the Middle Fork of the American River at a very gentle grade. The Quarry Trail’s distinctive feature, in addition to the stunning river vistas, is its lengthy history. A historic amphitheater, a cave that was formerly used for paleontological excavations, and a railway used to move limestone out of the quarry may all be seen during your trip. The walk is suitable for children, dogs, and horses, and parking at the trailhead costs only $10.

Consider the Monroe Ridge Trail and Monument

Trail if you’re looking for a quick, enjoyable trail for kids. The hills above Coloma are home to wildflowers in the spring and summer, and this 3-mile stroll winds among them. Two trailheads are available, one close to the Marshall Statue and the other on the park’s northern edge (parking costs $8). The cottage of James Marshall, a church, and a cemetery are all located along this trail, which is also significant historically. Mountain biking and equestrian riding are prohibited on the Monroe Ridge and Monument routes.

Cronan Ranch Trail System

The 12-mile Cronan Ranch system has a number of paths that are suitable for biking, hiking, bird watching, horseback riding, and fishing. Since the majority of these routes are well-maintained and have obvious markings, families and couples frequently use them. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset all year long, and there are no parking fees at the Cronan Ranch Trailhead.

Southern Fork of the American River Camping

Camping is the best method to truly decompress and detach from city life, but it is sometimes forgotten. The majority of Bureau of Land Management-owned public campgrounds are exclusively intended for day use. Fortunately, there are several immaculate private campgrounds to pick from close to South Fork.

Resort on the American River

The 40-acre American River Resort, encircled by a roaring river and tall trees, offers inviting camping for more than 100 visitors. Alternatively, you can rent a riverfront cabin tent equipped with cots and chairs or rent a spot and set up your own tent. Numerous sites are available for rent at American River Resort next to the iconic Troublemaker rapid. However, the Resort includes a number of mountain view campsites and is close to the trailheads of Marshall Gold Discovery State Park if you’re searching for views and activities on land. Tent sites range in price from $20 to 79 during the week and, depending on location, from $25 to 99 during the weekend.

Fort Lotus

Camp Lotus is a private campground with 30 tent sites and 10 R.V. sites available for rent. Parking spaces, irrigation, fire rings, and picnic tables are available at the campgrounds. Campers can purchase firewood and hire briquette barbecues at the Camp Lotus Store. The grounds themselves contain a lot of beaches and coves for adults and children to explore, and they are shaded by big trees. Additionally, there are hot water showers and restrooms at the campsite. The nightly starting price is $15 per person (3-person minimum).

Hotel Colomba

Coloma Resort is a well-liked camping area in South Fork with a full mile of riverfront campsites. Each site features a picnic table, campfire ring, and water and electric hookups. Coloma only allows six persons and one car per campground. Coloma has a number of off-river properties with their own sewer hookups that are available for rent if you don’t want a riverfront location or have young children. All camping areas in Coloma have dump stations. Weekend rates begin at $58, while weekday rates begin at $48.

Lodging

In South Fork, there is no shortage of interesting places to stay. South Fork features lodging options that will suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a motel, cabin, or conventional bed & breakfast.

Coloma’s South Fork American River Camping

The Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park surrounds the South Fork of the American River, making Coloma Resort the ideal place to go camping, hiking, fishing, bicycling, and rafting. You can connect with the activities that will make your stay memorable at Coloma Resort. Experience Coloma by taking part in historical gold rush programs, adventurous river tours, and other activities. We have lodging options for lone campers, couples, families, and large groups, including cabins, full hookup R.V. sites, and tent sites by the river! Explore miles of riverfront access, go fishing, float, or arrange a rafting trip. The State Park Museum, nearby hiking and bike trails, and our organic cafe are all accessible on foot from your location. Watch your children make new friends at our playgrounds as you unwind poolside. You won’t even need to leave our Resort with the summer activity calendar we have on-site!

Beyond compare, Coloma Resort is a family camping destination! Our family-run, pet-friendly Resort offers reasonable lodging and interesting recreational opportunities for people of all ages. Nearly a half mile of riverfront camping sites is available at Coloma Resort, which is situated in the center of California’s Gold Country and encircled by Marshall Gold Discovery State Historical Park at Sutter’s Mill. Choose from one of our fully furnished Riverfront Cabins, bring your R.V. for the family, or simply set up camp under a big oak tree.

List Of Camping Gear For The South Fork Of The American River Camping And Packing Advice

Summertime on the American River is typically warm and sunny, so you won’t need much clothing. The finest clothing is that which dries fast because you will be getting wet and the water is cold (60 degrees). A water bottle is useful, and appropriate footwear is essential. For miscellaneous items, we will have a small, shared dry bag available.

Everyone should bring on the river:

• This is what you ought to dress during the day whether you are traveling for one day or two.
• Old running shoes or sandals with a heel strap (Chaco, Teva, Astral, etc.). NO SLIP-ONS OR FLIP-FLOPS! (If your feet are prone to chilly, wear wool or fleece socks.)
• Shorts for the pool. The ideal shorts are made of nylon and should dry quickly; ladies should wear them over their bikinis.
• Lightweight cotton or a synthetic shirt in the dry-tech style. If you want more sun protection, wear something long-sleeved; a T-shirt will do. A thin fleece top is useful if you get cold easily; we’ll pack it in the group dry bag.
• Under-helmet hat (baseball style or visor works best).
• Eyewear with a strap (maybe not your best pair).
• Water container (an empty Gatorade bottle is fine).
• An underwater camera.

Everyone should bring the following early in the season:

Bring rain gear and extra insulation if you are easily cold or if you are traveling in the spring (up to June 15). Along with the aforementioned supplies, you should also bring the following:

• Pullover or jacket made of synthetic fleece or polypropylene pile (NOT COTTON; see “Polartec,” “polar fleece,” etc.)
• Dry-top or waterproof rain shell (NOT WATER-REPELLENT)
• Rent a 3 mm farmer john neoprene wetsuit from The River Store.
• Wetsuit booties, gloves, and a fleece hat.

Top Tip

The term “fleece” refers to any spun polyester fabric made for outdoor use. It is the perfect insulation for a river journey because it is thick, fluffy, and does not absorb water. Common names for it include Polartec and Polarfleece. A woven material that is thinner, stretchier, and mostly utilized for long underwear is polypropylene. Our guides typically wear BOTH during the time of high water (a polypro layer under a fleece layer).

What to pack on travels to a 2-day wilderness camp:

We’ll be setting up camp alongside the river and rafting whatever we need to bring for camp. Being independent is a wonderful feeling, but you will have to use your resources a little more wisely. You should be prepared to spend two days on the river (where you will be exposed to the sun and get wet) and one night without electricity. We will provide you with a waterproof bag for your overnight belongings when you get to Camp Lotus. The bags are tiny (17′′ in diameter and 22′′ tall) but sufficient if you load them carefully; (think appropriate gear, not more gear). Additionally, we will have a shared “tent bag” for sleeping pads and tents longer than 22 inches.

At Camp

Everyone going on a 2-day wilderness camping trip should bring:

• Everyone should bring these supplies in addition to the ones mentioned above for the river.
• Small-size sleeping bag (down or synthetic, rated to 35 degrees)
• Sleeping pad made of closed-cell foam or self-inflating (Thermarest or air mattress)
• Lining for a sleeping bag or a flat bedsheet (perfect for hot nights and will add warmth on cold nights)
• Compact, lightweight tents that can stand alone is preferable, as well as tiny tarps or ground coverings.
• Your fave thin, compact pillow
• Camp attire. 1 set of brand-new clothes (versatile pants and shirts, cotton is fine)
• Camp footwear. Tennis shoes or flip-flops (boots are not necessary).
• A little towel, shampoo, and soap
• Items for personal hygiene, such as lotion for dry skin, medicine, etc. Bring twice as many of any necessary medications.
• A compact flashlight with additional batteries (headlamps are great)
• Various books, games, and musical equipment (things you enjoy doing)

What to pack for a 2-day vacation to Camp Lotus:

We’ll be camping there in the evening, and there are showers, flush toilets, and a small store there. There is a lot of grass at Camp Lotus, and the campsites are rather private. You can sleep in a tent or under the stars there. A headlamp or flashlight comes in helpful. There are no weight or space limitations because you will be camped in your vehicle.

At camp, everyone going on a 2-day trip to camp Lotus should also bring:

• Everyone should bring these supplies in addition to the ones mentioned above for the river.
• An overnight bag (down or synthetic, rated to 35 degrees)
• Sleeping pad made of closed-cell foam or self-inflating (Thermarest or air mattress)
• Lining for a sleeping bag or a flat bedsheet (perfect for hot nights and will add warmth on cold nights)
• Tent, preferably free-standing, or a small tarp or ground cloth.
• Your preferred pillow
• Camp attire. 1 set of brand-new clothes (versatile pants and shirts, cotton is fine)
• Camp footwear. Tennis shoes or flip-flops (boots are not necessary).
• A little towel, shampoo, and soap
• Items for personal hygiene, such as lotion for dry skin, medicine, etc. Bring twice as many of any necessary medications.
• A compact flashlight with additional batteries (headlamps are great)
• Various books, games, and musical equipment (things you enjoy doing)

How to Pack

Put your camping gear in the watertight dry bag we’ll give you (one per person). There is no daytime access to these. Please aim to keep the total weight of your stuff to less than 25 pounds because there isn’t much room. Ready your sleeping bag in a garbage bag adds an additional layer of protection, even though we will show you how to close the dry bag so that it remains impermeable even when briefly submerged. For managing small and/or wet items inside your bag, zip-lock bags and little stuff sacks work well.

River Item

Will be placed in a group dry bag that we will supply. We suggest a Pelican Box, which is available at most outdoor retailers, for expensive cameras and cell phones.

Camping Along the American River’s Riverfront

Troublemaker Rapid’s premium Riverfront Campsites On The American River

The best riverfront camping on the American River is here for you. Camping by a river is refreshing! Flowing water will relax and re-energize you while the sheer force of The American River reaches out to mesmerize and inspire you. You’ll find it a unique luxury to camp beside this natural beauty as it courses along our banks. Enjoy the serene and natural riparian environment when camping at one of our riverfront spots.

The Resort is uniquely placed on the river sides of the South Fork American River at the legendary Troublemaker Rapid. During the rafting season’s peak daytime moments, you will get a grandstand seat to all the white water action. In the evening, you will fall asleep to the sound of the flowing water.

River Front and River View areas and their Location.

American River Resort has many riverside and river campsites that vary in size and volume.

The River Front sites overlook Mischief-maker quickly with awesome views of the river and the whitewater action. Most of these sites are under-shaded oak canopies.

River View and mountain view, what’s the dissimilarities?

The main dissimilarities in the middle of River View and Mountain View campsites areas are the closeness of the campsites to the river, the areas from each campsite, and the vehicle parking locations. All River View campsites area has full or partial sites of the river. The River Sites campsites are either at Troublemaker Rapid, which is the largest fast at the South Fork of the American River. River Area campsites include free parking at a designated parking area. There’s no parking located at the River Views. There is an easy access road to all the River View campsites where you can load and unload your camping equipment.

F.A.Q.

Can you camp along the American River?

RIVER-Series CAMPS

Permits are available for camping in some sites outside of the designated campgrounds for those rafting the American River. Information and permits are available at the Auburn S.R.A. Ranger Station, 501 El Dorado Street in Auburn.

What are class rapids on the American River?

The South Fork in the American is a Class III-rated river perfect for families and first-time rafters; the Middle Fork of the American boasts eighteen miles of gorgeous scenery mixed with Class II to Class IV rapids.

Is there do besides camping?

The American River gives rafting trips for all experience levels. Family rafting trips are available for ages six and older. You can add a whitewater rafting trip to your camping area reservation at any moment before the time or during your stay. Rafting trips leave from the American River Resort daily! The Sierra Foothills are an adventurer’s paradise. Use the Resort as your base camp for adventures in our area.

Can i bring my pet camping?

You are welcome to bring your family pet on your camping area adventure. You will be camping in a wilderness environment. Therefore, for your pets’ safety, as well as the safety of other guests, they have Pet Rules.