Three Hour Inflatable Kayak Trips: American River

A Paddle Adventure on the American River

Trip Overview

• 5 miles of river
• 3 hours of  inflatable kayaking with instruction
  
• Excellent introduction to inflatable kayaking
• Learn about the kayak itself: where to purchase, how to care for it, what other equipment do you need to enjoy the sport
  

We rate the California’s South Fork of the American River as the best river in California for both first-time and more experienced rafters. As the most popular river in California, California’s South Fork of the American River is a consistent Class II-III+, beginning-level whitewater river. California’s South Fork of the American River has become the most popular river in California for individuals, families, groups of friends and company recreation trips, available daily from April through September.

• Inflatable kayaking is becoming very popular and is an excellent introduction to sea kayaking or whitewater kayaking (in a hard-shell). Mariah is offering a safe entrance into this new sport.
• Back at camp we have a well-equipment camp store which provides last-minute items you may have forgotten, flush toilets, and hot-water showers.
• Be prepared to paddle and get wet!

• Kayaking Trips Kayaking Trips
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Departures: daily, minimum of 6 persons, max 10 persons
May through September
12:30-3:30pm 

Trip Difficulty: This rafting trip is rated beginner.

Type of Raft
inflatable kayak

Age Range
12-96 years

Price Range
daily:   $65.00
plus 8% River Use Fee

12:30 PM

We meet you at the Mariah Campground Kitchen where you will be greeted by your instructor, sign the necessary paperwork, and board the Mariah shuttle vehicle for the 10-minute drive to Marshall Gold Discovery State Park where our class and trip begins.

1:00PM TRIP ORIENTATION and START TRIP ON THE RIVER
You will receive an introduction to I.K'ing given by your Head Guide, and discussion of the safety features of the trip and demonstrations of the paddle techniques. The State Park is the perfect spot to begin your class because there a very large body of water with little, or no, current in which you can practice all of the techniques required for I.K.'ing. This is where all of the kayak classes are held. You will then launch your kayaks into the current of the river with many Class I-II rapids. This is the perfect time to warm up, practice technique, and swim one of the easier rapids (if necessary). 

3:0 PM

We should be landing at the Mariah Campground Take-Out spot (Swimming Hole). After walking the kayaks up to the equipment area, your guide will give you a presentation about kayak purchase and maintenance. You should be ready to depart for your next destination by 3:30 P.M.

Mariah's campground is outdoor living in style with many of the same comforts you have at home. Rent one of Mariah's Luxury Tents and enjoy the riverfront view while sitting on your own private veranda. Wake up to a steaming hot cup of java at the Coffee Corner, or wind down after rafting at the Wine & Beverage Garden. For the ultimate peaceful moments, take a walk on our Sierra Nature Trail or find a private bench near the river that invites leisure activites.

Want some more excitement after rafting?  Play a fun game of volleyball, ping pong, or horseshoes.   On most Saturday evenings the crickets join in on live bluegrass music, soft guitar music, a jazz trio, or mandolin playing for your entertainment. On Thursdays Rodney, our resident goldpanner will demonstrate the art of goldpanning. And don't forget about all of the delicious fresh food that the Mariah Guides prepare outdoors just for you.

Our Camp Store is stocked with last minute items you may need for your American River rafting trip. We also have Mariah Gear for sale so you can take something home to remember your whitewater rafting trip. To keep informed about local events or the gold history of Coloma head over to the Guest Information Kiosk.

• The overlook The overlook
• Bring your own tent Bring your own tent
• Cabin style tents Cabin style tents
• A Deluxe Tent A Deluxe Tent
• Socialize Socialize
• Cabin style tents Cabin style tents
• Kids having fun Kids having fun
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Click Here for Accomodations, Equipment Rental, and Order Form

Click Here for the Mariah Camp Ground Map

Click Here for Area Information

Eagle's Nest & Falcon's Nest

Eagle's Nest and Falcon's Nest are each on a raised-platform. They are cabin-style tents each with 5 deluxe sleeping cots, 5 deluxe pads, and 5 deck chairs. These airy tents have lovely views of the tree-lined river and there's plenty of room on large verandas to enjoy visiting, morning coffee, an evening glass of wine, a peaceful bird calls.

Hawk's Nest

This is our brand new cabin-style tent with 4 deluxe sleeping cots, 4 deluxe pads, and 4 deck chairs. Hawk's Nest rests on the ground and has a nice canvas awning under which you can relax in your deck chair and listen to the sounds of the river.

Sparrow, Kingfisher, and Hummingbird

Sparrow, Kingfisher, and Hummingbird are each on a raised-platform. They are cabin-style tents each with 2 deluxe sleeping cots, 2 deluxe pads, and 2 deck chairs. These airy tents have lovely views of the tree-lined river. Their verandas are perfect spots for enjoying the river views.

Mulberry, Acorn, Poppy, and Berry

Mulberry, Acorn, Poppy, and Berry are each on a raised-platform with a small veranda. They are large family-style tents each with 4 deluxe pads, and lovely view of the river.

2 Person Dome Tents

2-person Dome Tents are comfortable and have enough space for 2 people, 2 of our deluxe pads (which you may rent for an additional price), and all of your personal gear.