WHITE WATER RAFTINGNear Sacramento

Tributary Whitewater Tours was one of the original outfitters running rafting trips near Sacramento. Since 1978 we have been rafting on the American River, Truckee River, North Yuba River & more! Our trip are some of the best in the industry with new gear, air conditioned vehicles, large campground on the South Fork American River, glamping options, wilderness trips & the best guides around!

There is a variety of white water rafting adventures that will bring excitement to all ages. Our trips range from mellow to intense with everything in between. We have Class 2, 3, 4 & 5 options for rafting near Sacramento on many rivers.

Class 2 Rafting Trips near Sacramento:

Class 3 Rafting Trips near Sacramento:

  • For beginner/intermediate trips the American River is reliable for rafting all summer long with 1/2, 1, and multi day trips. The South Fork American River is the most popular rafting destination and great for families, corporate groups and scout groups!

Class 4 & 5 Rafting Trips near Sacramento:

RIVER RAFTING ON THE South Fork American River

Dates: March
- October

The South Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, only 30 minutes from Sacramento. It is one of the major tributaries of the American River and flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range before spilling into Folsom Reservoir.

The South Fork is known for its scenic beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, and camping. The river passes through areas in El Dorado County, providing access to the diverse landscapes of the Sierra Nevada region.

  • Three rafting sections with six diverse white water trip experiences
  • Several specialty rafting trip options including winetasting, ropes course, a live band, a creative workshop and a yoga retreat.
  • Take 50% off kids on mid-week whitewater rafting trips. (Mondays through Thursdays.) Learn more. 
  • River trips include the popular Gorge Run and Chili Bar sections
  • Variety levels to choose from – Class II to Class III+
  • Rafting for kids as young as 4 and  accommodations for guests of varying abilities and needs
  • Long season – provides great rafting and white water the entire summer and through Labor Day weekend
  • Camping is available before or after any South Fork American River rafting trip at our private campground
  • Close to major cities such as Sacramento and San Francisco
  • Professional photography companies shoot at the major rapids on the river. You can view your photos online after your trip

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Middle Fork American River

Dates: June
- September

The Middle Fork is one of the main tributaries of the American River located in Northern California.  The proximity of the American River to Sacramento and San Francisco makes the Middle Fork American River accessible for day trips or weekend getaways.

  • Fast paced, fun and challenging Class IV rapids
  • Renowned “Tunnel Chute,” a man-made marvel from the Gold Rush Era with a 90-foot rock tunnel and a 6-foot drop
  • Ability to camp at our private campground right on the river
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic River section

RIVER RAFTING ON THE Lower Middle Fork American River

Dates: April
- September

The Lower Middle Fork of the American River is a picturesque and ecologically significant waterway located in Northern California. Flowing through the Sierra Nevada foothills, this segment of the American River west towards Sacramento this section of river is a  perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

  • Perfect river rafting trip for young families and older generations
  • Great rafting introduction for children
  • We are one of the few outfitters that offer this section of river
  • Available all summer long, perfect for summer breaks
  • Inflatable kayaks available for rent
  • Mellow section of the American River
  • Small group sizes

RIVER RAFTING ON THE North Fork American River

Dates: April
- May

The North Fork of the American River is located in Northern California, 30 minutes east of Sacramento. The river flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range (near Lake Tahoe) and is a tributary of the American River.

It offers fantastic, challenging, whitewater rafting trips through steep walled canyons in the spring.

  • Challenging Class IV rafting
  • Free-flowing limited spring season rafting trip
  • Clear cold water (don’t worry the Class IV adrenaline helps)
  • Steep walled canyon
  • Raft the Wild & Scenic section
  • Close to Sacramento, San Francisco and Lake Tahoe
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