South Fork American River - Full-Day Rafting Trip

South Fork American River Rafting Trip – Class III Full River (Full-Day)

Experience the ultimate South Fork American River adventure with our Full River Trip, combining the Chili Bar and The Gorge sections into one action-packed full-day rafting experience. Covering 22 miles in approximately 6 hours, this trip features continuous Class II-III rapids, breathtaking scenery, and a mid-day riverside BBQ lunch to keep you fueled for the excitement ahead.

Your journey begins on the Chili Bar (Upper) Section, where the river wastes no time getting exciting. Within minutes, you’ll be navigating classic Class III rapids like Meatgrinder, Maya, and 1st Threat, leading up to the biggest rapid on the South Fork—Trouble Maker. After the rush of these early rapids, enjoy a relaxing float through Coloma’s Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, soaking in the beauty of the region.

At our private riverside lunch spot, we’ll serve up a hot BBQ lunch, featuring cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chips, salsa, and all the fixings. After refueling, the adventure continues into The Gorge (Lower) Section, where the river narrows and the rapids intensify. Here, you'll take on a thrilling series of Class III rapids, including Fowler’s Rock, Satan’s Cesspool, Bouncing Rock, and Hospital Bar, before finishing the day with a smooth float to the take-out point.

This trip is perfect for adventurous first-timers, families, and seasoned paddlers looking for a full day of fun on the water.

Upgrade to the Wild Side Trip

Want to take your rafting experience to the next level? Upgrade to our Wild Side Trip, where you'll paddle in a smaller, 12-foot raft with just four passengers for maximum maneuverability. Led by one of our top-rated guides, your private boat experience can be customized just for you. You want flips and spills? You got it! You want to hit the waves hard and get soaked? No problem! Our top-tier guides have no shortage of tricks they’d love to show you. Either way, you’ll experience the river like never before!

Duration

6 hours on the water - 22 miles total

The total trip duration, including check-in, shuttle, rafting, and lunch, is approximately 7-8 hours from start to finish.

Location / Where to Meet

Action Whitewater

Ages & Requirements

Ages 7+

Minimum weight: 50 lbs

What's Included

1. Professional guide
   
2. All rafting equipment – Paddle, helmet, life jacket, and wetsuit (if needed)
   
3. Hot BBQ lunch – Cheeseburgers, hot dogs, chips, salsa, and all the fixings (dietary restrictions can be accommodated)
   
4. Shuttle to and from the river put-in/take-out points
   

Not Included

1. Guide gratuity 
   
2. Photos & souvenirs – Available for purchase at our camp store
   

What to Bring/Wear

1. Quick-drying clothing – Avoid cotton; opt for synthetic or wool materials
   
2. Secure swimwear or shorts – Board shorts or athletic wear that dries quickly
   
3. Secure footwear – Water shoes, sandals with straps (like Tevas or Chacos), or old sneakers (no flip-flops)
   
4. Sunglasses with a retainer strap
   
5. Sunscreen
   
6. Change of clothes & towel – For after the trip