Extend your rafting adventure with a comfortable night camping by the South Fork of the American River in Lotus, CA. Enjoy deluxe tents, a campfire, and nature’s beauty without the hassle of setup.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Overnight
Fitness Level
Basic fitness needed to walk short distances and handle light campsite activities.
Wildlife
History
The South Fork of the American River has been a site of Native American settlement and California Gold Rush history dating back to the mid-1800s.
Conservation
Action Whitewater partners with local organizations to minimize ecological impact and promote river clean-up efforts to preserve this pristine environment.
Action Whitewater
Extend your rafting adventure with a comfortable night camping by the South Fork of the American River in Lotus, CA. Enjoy deluxe tents, a campfire, and nature’s beauty without the hassle of setup.
Action Whitewater is a river outfitter based in Jackson, California, offering guided whitewater rafting and related river experiences on the South Fork of the American River, Mokelumne River, and the Lower Middle Fork American River. With a selection of half-day, full-day, and multi-section trips, Action Whitewater caters to families, beginners, and adventurous paddlers seeking Class I to III rapids. The company operates trips that include the Gorge Express, the full Gorge Lower Section, Chili Bar runs (including Chili Bar Express), a combined Full River 22-mile option, the Mokelumne River, and a kid-friendly Lower Middle Fork float trip. A deluxe camping package is available for guests who want to extend their river adventure with on-site camping that includes tents and sleeping gear on four scenic acres along the South Fork.
Guides lead each trip, navigate rapids such as Meatgrinder and Trouble Maker, and provide safety instruction appropriate to trip difficulty. Trips feature opportunities for photos and souvenirs at the camp store and include picnic or BBQ lunch on full-day runs when provided. Action Whitewater positions offerings to be accessible for families with children on gentler sections while providing splashy, exciting Class II–III rapids for thrill-seekers. The outfitter emphasizes outdoor recreation, scenic river floats, regional Gold Rush history near Coloma, and convenience for guests wishing to combine rafting with overnight camping. Operating from Jackson, California, Action Whitewater presents a variety of river experiences for summer visitors and local paddlers alike. Reservations and seasonal schedules are available through Action Whitewater's booking channels.
Location
Jackson, CA
Base for river departures
Trips Offered
8 Trips
Range of half-day to full-day
Family Friendly
Kid-friendly Runs
Options for families and beginners
Camping Available
Deluxe Package
Overnight gear on four acres
Reserve a South Fork, Mokelumne, or Lower Middle Fork trip — deluxe camping add-ons available.
Arrive Early to Settle In
Plan to arrive in daylight to familiarize yourself with the camp layout and enjoy the peaceful riverside setting.
Secure Food to Avoid Wildlife Encounters
Use provided bear-proof containers and store all food securely to keep wildlife at a safe distance.
Dress in Layers for Changing Temperatures
Evenings can get cool by the river, so bring warm layers to stay comfortable around the campfire.
Respect Quiet Hours After Dark
Keep noise levels down after sunset to preserve the natural ambiance and respect other campers.
Warm Sleeping Bag
Keeps you comfortable during chilly nights by the river.
fall
Campfire-Appropriate Clothing
Wear fire-resistant, layered clothing for warmth and safety when sitting by the campfire.
Headlamp or Flashlight
Essential for moving safely around camp once the sun goes down.
Insect Repellent
Helps protect against mosquitoes during warm summer evenings.
summer