Rafting is
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The river is the perfect place to reconnect with nature—and yourself
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Our Middle Fork trip was incredible, the breathtaking views, full moon in the canyon, and thrilling, fun rapids... I came home transformed.
Mort Tweedy
Sacramento
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California Whitewater Rafting

Welcome to the Mother Lode River Center on the South Fork of the American River in Coloma, California. We are conveniently located in the beautiful Sierra foothills between Sacramento and Lake Tahoe. It was here in the 1960s that Mother Lode River Trips established the original and most beautiful whitewater river rafting camp on the West Coast. Take our camp tour and check it out for yourself! Mother Lode has over 30 years experience with the finest safety record in the whitewater industry.

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California Rafting Trips

South Fork of the American River-Beginning to Intermediate River Rafting - River rafting and kayaking enthusiasts have made the South Fork of the American River the most popular California whitewater rafting recreation destination for many reasons. Great rapids, easy access, and as of 2008, federally mandated whitewater rafting recreation flows all combine make this river the number one choice for whitewater river rafting in California and the West.

rafting blogMiddle Fork of the American River- Intermediate to Advanced Whitewater Rafting - Only 45 minutes from the River Center, the Middle Fork of the American River provides the most popular whitewater for intermediate to advanced river rafting in California. This river is a wilderness experience with an extended season from May through September and truly unique rapids such as the “Tunnel Chute”. Want to plummet down a Class V waterfall and float through a mountain? Take a virtual ride on our Middle Fork American video and see if this river is for you!!

North Fork of the American River- Advanced Whitewater River Rafting - The North Fork of the American River is also close to our camp and provides advanced whitewater rafting thrills for spring boaters. Waterfalls, wildflowers and challenging rapids grace this narrow sluice box of a canyon. Go early and often. We provide free wetsuits and paddling jackets, you bring courage and enthusiasm.

No matter which river you choose to run, if you are interested in experiencing a great river trip, for a great price, combined with the smallest carbon footprint in the industry- Call us at 800-427-2387 to reserve your space!

Outdoor EducationOutdoor Education

Our Outdoor Education Center offers California Gold Rush history, Native American history and science-based river study in the heart of the gold country. Our curriculum based, hands-on programs are a resource for teachers in search of fun, interactive learning for their 4th-12th grade classes.

a happy ropes course participant (B. Zupo Photography)Challenge Ropes

Mother Lode's beautiful riverside site is a destination in itself. Add a Challenge Ropes Course and you've got an unforgettable teambuilding experience. Reward your accomplishments with whitewater rafting—-- the ultimate team sport! This Ropes and Rafting video highlights our youth courses.

Sustainable PracticesNEW!: Sustainable Practices

Continuing in the pioneering spirit that sets the Mother Lode River Center apart, is the introduction of our newest curriculum: Sustainable Practices. Solar Power, Alternative Fuels and Organic Permaculture Gardening are a few of the topics we explore in-depth during our 1/2-day or full day programs, which we can tailor for your youth or adult group. These programs may be combined with any of our other offerings of your choosing.

More Adventures!

Our other adventures include kayak instruction, whitewater guide school, and wilderness tournament.


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