Our students enjoyed their day and learned a great deal, your facilities were really user-friendly. Thank you — we are already looking for dates to attend next.—
Our experience at Mother Lode was exceptional. Your staff was eager to help us make the most of our trip. It brought what we were learning in the classroom to life, allowing my students to make an unforgettable experience and connection. All your activities were well-planned and, most importantly, fun!—
Kids were engaged with the programs, which was delivered a the right level for the age group. The staff did a particularly good job of asking questions to involve the kids, but also to gauge the knowledge level of the class. Energetic, lively, knowledgeable, patient, and fun people — the staff, I mean. The facility was great — casual enough so everyone could run around and play freely, yet comfortable too. Flush toilets, hot-water showers, tent cabins with wooden floors off the dirt, cots all set up: the most luxurious “camping” I’ve ever done. (The volleyball should have been inflated.) Food was fine and always right on time, no mean feat when you’re cooking three meals a day for about 65 people. Good, nutritious food.—
This was a fantastic experience for our kids! I think this is an experience that they will take with them. I would definitely recommend Mother Lode to another group. The staff was EXCELLENT!—
The students had a great time in the outdoors while reviewing info. they have studied and learning new things. The hands on experience of gold panning was one of the high points for the kids. It was a lot harder than they thought!— , Gold Rush History
…Our kids had the time of their lives, enjoying themselves completely. Your staff kept them interested in the stations, the food was delicious, and the camping areas worked out well. Our parents enjoyed themselves also… Thank you very much for all your communication, care and effort.— , Gold Rush History
The sunny day and beautiful area set the stage for a great day. Every student I spoke with said they really enjoyed their day and learned a lot about water… They clearly had a memorable day.— , River Study
The staff members were very professional and knowledgeable about what they taught the students. They connected well with our students and were positive role models and guides for various outdoor activities. The students appreciated and respected their expertise.—
… I learned how to make a dream catcher, what the Nisenan Indians used to make food… It was very fun to play in the streams, search for bugs, pan for gold, (that was the best), and roast marshmallows. You made the trip super fun!— , Gold Rush History
Students’ responses to the statement: "Describe in what way you saw, experienced, or demonstrated…":Respect
The people/Each others’ rights/For the Animals/For yourself/ Animals and people/Each other/myself/guides/Not talking back to the staff/Respecting the animals/The staff – they know stuff/The river – it has powerHonesty
Telling the truth/Pick up your own trash/Showing that I was scared of the snake/Picking up what was mine/To be honest/Telling the truth/Not lying to the staff if they ask you if something was yours/Saying that was your mess/I didn’t lie once.Caring
About nature/Being nice to friends/For another person/For animals/Beth fixed our tent/For the animals/About each other on the river/Helping with food and tents/Trying to save a buddy/Shabon gave Gee his sweatshirt.Responsibility
Take care of my stuff/Pick up your own trash/Steering the boat/
For your stuff/Pack all the stuff you need/Cooking and washing dishes/Take care of the wildlife and woods/Clean up after yourself/Clean your own mess/You have to listen for directions for the raft. — , Rafting and LifeSkills
We loved Mother Lode! The activities were well balanced and the food was great. The counselors were attentive to the dynamics of the groups, helping shyer kids to speak out. Also, you have a great location.—
I couldn’t be happier with our experience at Mother Lode. The facilities were great, the staff was awesome and very personable, and the activities were phenomenal! The kids were totally into it!—
Let me start by saying we all enjoyed our day with you, both adults and children. The students had a great time in the outdoors, studied and learned new things. The hands-on experience of gold panning was a high point. All the students came away with something to remember.—
Dear Mother Lode River Center Staff,—
Our experience at Mother Lode was fantastic. From the moment we got off the bus, to the last wave goodbye, our stay was all about us. The staff was kind and helpful
Once again, five years running, you are all awesome!! We love your personable staff. See you next year!—
Hey MaLode,—
Saw the pics, still living the dream of the river, waking up thinking of Hospital Bar and Surprise Rapid and the Rope Toss I earned by swimming out of the eddy! I really was impressed with how you handled the family I brought out to you – EVERYONE of us had an amazing time and felt very comfortable – some apprehension on the part of some people prior to the trip – for good reasons – but after it was all said and done there were no doubters at all – everyone loved the river and the experience – so memorable on so many parts – the paddling, the team building, the adventure, the swimming and the laughing. Every detail covered by you guys, every moment carefully overseen by you guys and the ride home to the city had us all laughing and talking about the trip down the gorge. I will be back of course with Charles Armstrong but I will also be back with friends and family for more and more and more – I am hooked and will be your top salesman yet!
Penny – you are the best
Scotty – you rock in every way
Austin – thanks for the help and laughs on the river – see you in September with our students
