2 Day Combination Rafting Trip

Prices Starting At

$339 Adults (14+)

TRIP OVERVIEW

Our South Fork / Middle Fork American River Rafting combo overnight trip is “the” ticket to experiencing the best of the American River. Double down on two amazing sections of white water rafting back to back. Warm up on some Class 3 rapids on the South Fork’s Gorge run on day one before stepping up to the more exciting Class 4 action on the Middle Fork American River on day two. Day two features the famed “Tunnel Chute” rapid among other Class IV challenges you will be sure to enjoy!

Reminisce about the day’s adventure as you enjoy 2 nights of camping at our South Fork American Riverside Camp in Lotus, CA. We will transport you to/from the rivers as needed and provide 5 tasty meals! Yup, we prep and cook them for you as well.

This combo trip is available after the North Fork of the American River stops running, typically in June, depending on river flows. Check out our other combo the South Fork / North Fork American River rafting trip for a double down spring rafting option. This trip is close to Lake Tahoe, Sacramento and San Francisco.

 

Water flows in the South Fork American River result from releases from hydroelectric facilities located upstream. Such water releases are not subject to the control of El Dorado County or rafting companies operating under Permits from the County of El Dorado.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Combine two great California Rivers— the perfect trip for very adventuresome first-time rafters as well as experienced paddlers
  • Two days rafting (covering 30 miles), one night camping and 5 great meals
  • Camp both nights at our South Fork American riverside camp where you will enjoy horseshoes, cornhole, camp store, campfire, hot showers and flush toilets
  • Experienced guides: skilled and ready to provide a safe and fun outdoor adventure
  • Two full days of excitement, fun and relaxation in two beautiful river canyons

River Map

Trip Itinerary

The Night Before:

  • 4:00-8:00 PM: Check-in at our South Fork American River campground for a pre-rafting camping experience. Dinner is not included.

 

Day 1:

  • 7:00 AM: Wake up to the sounds of the river. Coffee, tea, and drinks are available in the kitchen.
  • 7:30 AM: Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day.
  • Mid-Morning (Around 10:00 AM): Load the shuttle for a short ride to the put-in location.
  • Noon: Break for a delicious lunch.
  • Afternoon: Continue rafting on the Gorge section of the South Fork American River, tackling exciting Class 3+ rapids like Satan’s Cesspool & Hospital Bar Rapids.
  • 4:00 PM: Reach the take-out point, where we load up the gear and shuttle everyone back to camp.
  • Evening: Enjoy time for showers and riverside relaxation while your guides prepare appetizers. Drinks are available.
  • 6:30 PM: Dinner is served, followed by a campfire and riverside chats (campfire not guaranteed due to possible high fire danger).
  • 10:00 PM: Quiet hours begin until 7:00 AM the next morning.

Day 2:

  • 7:00 AM: Rise and shine! Coffee, tea, and drinks are ready in the kitchen.
  • 7:15 AM: Enjoy a delicious breakfast to fuel up for the day.
  • 8:00 AM: Load the shuttle to the Middle Fork American River.
  • 9:00 AM: Arrive at Oxbow Reservoir put-in for a safety talk before tackling more challenging rapids.
  • Throughout the Day: Navigate through Class 2-3+ rapids, including the thrilling Class 4+ Tunnel Chute rapid.
  • Afternoon: Encounter more Class 4 rapids like Chunder and Parallel Parking. Portage the Class 6 Ruck-A-Chucky falls and rejoin the guide for more action.
  • 4:00 PM: Head back to camp, approximately a 40-minute shuttle ride.
  • Post-Trip: Take a shower before departure.
  • Optional Evening: Extend your adventure with an additional night of camping at the South Fork Campground.

Where to Meet

Tributary Outpost & Private Campground on the American River

6500 CA-49
Lotus, CA 95651

Where To Stay

Camping

  • Tributary Campground – Lotus, CA
    Many of our multi-day American River trips include camping at our private campground, located directly on the South Fork of the American River. Extend your trip and camp with us at our private riverside campground before or after your rafting adventure.
  • Consumnes River Ranch – Plymouth, CA
    One of our preferred partners! This is an amazing private property on the Consumnes River with tent camping, glamping cabins, stone barn for weddings and more.

 

Hotel Options

What Should I Bring

For Rafting

  • Required Items
    • Re-usable 20oz or more water bottle
    • Shoes (no flip flops)
  • Suggested Items
    • Sunglasses (with a strap)
    • Baseball hat
  • Do Not Bring
    • Cell Phones
    • Wallets
    • Expensive jewelry

For Camping

  • Linens
    • Blankets
    • Pillow
    • Sleeping bag
  • Flashlight/Headlamp
  • Change of clothes
  • Towel
  • Camp chair

 

Click here for a full detailed list of what to wear and what to bring.

Upgrade your camping experience and rent a Glamping Tent.

What Does Tributary Provide

Included with Rafting

  • PFD (Personal floatation device / aka life jacket)
  • Paddle
  • Helmet
  • Professional raft guide for each raft
  • Shuttles to/from camp

Included with this Overnight River Rafting Trip

  • Tent
  • Sleeping Pad
  • Cot
  • Dry Bag for your gear
  • 2 nights camping
  • 5 meals
    • Day 1 – breakfast, lunch & dinner
    • Day 2 – breakfast & lunch