Plan your hassle-free Gold Country camping and rafting trip
Are you looking for an adventure and a night (or two) under the stars? Or are you new to camping and looking for a more relaxed setting? If so, this California Gold Country getaway might be just what you need. We’ve put together the ultimate 48-hour itinerary that combines hassle-free river camping with fun-filled American river rafting. If you’re near the Bay Area or Sacramento, it doesn’t get any sweeter or easier…
Day 1: Setting up base camp at OARS American River Outpost
6 pm Arrive in Coloma and check in at the OARS American River Outpost campground, which offers one night of camping before or after your American River rafting trip for $15 per person per night.
You may or may not bring your own camping gear. The Outpost has everything you need for rent. Don’t want to sleep on the ground? You can also rent one of our pre-configured platform tents to take your camping experience to the next level. We have everything you need to make your camping trip comfortable and relaxing.
7:00 pm If you want to prepare dinner on site, do so. Otherwise, simply head to nearby Gorilla Rock Taco for three delicious tacos and a variety of craft beers for under $10. If you're camping during the week, be aware that some local restaurants may be closed.
8pm Play chess on the life-size chess board at the campsite, relax around the campfire (early season only), or take a walk to the river and watch shooting stars on the beach.
Day 2: American River Rafting & Catering Camp Meals
6 am Get up early and give yourself plenty of time to fuel up and gear up for your rafting adventure. If you don’t fancy wrangling a camp stove this early, head to Sierra Rizing, just a two-minute walk away, for coffee and a variety of homemade breakfast options. (Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
Morning: Meet your guide and fellow rafters at the onsite camp store for a day of exciting rapids. Departure times vary, but whether you choose to raft the popular, family-friendly South Fork of the American River, the wild, early spring North Fork, or the thrilling, scenic Middle Fork, you’re sure to have a day filled with splashes, laughs, and great memories.
5pm Back at camp, enjoy the outpost's amenities and freshen up with a hot shower before dinner. No toilets here!
6 pm Tonight, choose from happy hour and catered camp meals at the Outpost (ask about availability when you book your trip) or head to Troublemakers Beer Garden for cold brews, wood-fired pizzas, and other tasty pub grub. On your way to dinner, stop by Hotshot Imaging to check out photos from the day’s rafting.
8pm Relax with family and friends at camp and relive the best moments of your day on the water. Soon you will be tired and satisfied after a day full of adventures and ready to cozy up in your tent.
Day 3: Marshall Gold Discovery Park & Auburn State Recreation Area Hike
8 am After setting up camp, drive just five minutes to Marshall Gold Discovery Park, where you can grab a casual breakfast at the Argonaut Farm to Fork Cafe, featuring a menu inspired by local farmers and suppliers. Afterwards, take a walk along the river, watch a blacksmith at work, or learn how to pan for gold.
10 am End your adventurous weekend with a hike or trail run at Auburn State Recreation Area. The area stretches 40 miles along the Middle and North Forks of the American River and offers more than 100 miles of recreational trails. The 2.2-mile Calcutta Falls Black Hole Hike, just 15 minutes past the outpost, is a relatively close option and features a waterfall year-round, making it a great place to relax and cool off before heading home.