
Looking for the best whitewater rafting in California? The American River in California is home to three incredible sections—South Fork, Middle Fork, and North Fork—each offering unique thrills for every rafter. Whether you’re new to California whitewater rafting or looking for a high-adrenaline adventure, we’ve got the perfect trip for you!
▸ Just a short drive from Sacramento, Lake Tahoe, and the Bay Area!
▸ The best river rafting American River California has to offer!
▸ Trips for all levels—from family-friendly floats to extreme whitewater!
Reserve your spot today & let’s go Rafting!
There are few group activities in the world that can bring friends and family closer together like California whitewater rafting. An experience like this brings you closer to nature, closer to each other.
It’s simply amazing. Whitewater rafting is something you must do at least once in your life, and the American River is perfect for all skill levels. It offers fun for beginners and for more seasoned veterans alike.
If you’re a family with kids wanting to share a rafting experience of a lifetime or you’re a hardcore outdoors adventurer ready for your next whitewater challenge, Mother Lode River Center has what you need. Plus, with 50 years experience on California’s most popular river, we’ll make sure your whitewater rafting trip is safe and memorable.
Whitewater rafts come in all different shapes in sizes. Here at the River Center, we have two different sized boats – designed to accommodate six or eight guests plus a guide. We select raft sizes based upon the total group size and we make our best effort to keep smaller groups together
The South Fork American River rafting experience is perfect for first-timers, families, and groups. With thrilling Class II-III rapids, this is the most popular section of river rafting in California.
▸ Chili Bar Run (AM trip) – Big morning rapids, includes lunch, and you’re off the river by 2:30 PM!
▸ Gorge Run (PM trip) – Start in the afternoon, enjoy a riverside lunch before hitting thrilling rapids.
▸ Gorge Run Without Lunch – Eat lunch before you come and jump straight into the action!
▸ Family Float – A calm and scenic float with no Class III rapids, ideal for young kids and first-timers!
For those ready to take on more challenging whitewater rafting in California, the Middle Fork American River rafting trip is packed with Class III-IV rapids and famous drops like Tunnel Chute.
▸ Class IV rapids with exciting technical challenges.
▸ Tunnel Chute – a man-made Class IV+ rapid blasted through solid rock!
▸ Scenic wilderness and thrilling rapids—great for adventurous rafters!
For the most intense whitewater rafting in Northern California, look no further than the North Fork American River rafting trip. This free-flowing river, only available in spring, delivers steep, technical Class IV-V rapids in a stunning alpine canyon.
▸ The most advanced whitewater rafting trip in California
▸ Class V rapids – technical, steep, and demanding
▸ Only available in spring – book early!
▸ The best white water rafting California has to offer – Three unique river sections!
▸ Perfect for all skill levels – Choose from easygoing floats to extreme Class V thrills!
▸ Conveniently located – Just a short drive from Sacramento, Tahoe, and the Bay Area!
▸ Experienced guides, top-rated safety, and unforgettable adventure!
Spots fill up fast—reserve your rafting trip today!
▸ Top-rated rafting rivers in California – South Fork, Middle Fork & North Fork!
▸ Fun, safety, and adventure for every skill level!
▸ Book online now and hit the rapids!
Join us on for a thrilling half-day of high ropes and rafting—no minimum group size required! Celebrate with us and book your adventure now!
Event Dates: June 15th, June 22, July 20th, July 27th, August 10th, August 17th