Lodging Best Picks for California Whitewater Vacations
American River Recreation offers a variety of whitewater rafting trips including half, full and 2 day trips. Our 2 day adventures include accommodations on our private riverfront campground; Rivers Bend Resort.
Although camping is included in our overnight trips, space on our campground as well as dinner can be added to any trip reservation. Our guides are as skilled with the grill as they are in the water. Sit back, relax and socialize with guests while our ‘chefs’ prepare a full course meal for you practically tableside.
Our camping accommodations are some of the best in the area. However beautiful, sleeping under the stars is not for everyone. For those who prefer the indoors; we’ve made a list of a few in the area.
Enchanted April
Leave behind the smartphones, tablets and Wi-Fi zones and take in some of the beautiful countryside that surrounds the Enchanted April Bed and Breakfast. Located just a short distance from the South Fork American River, this B&B offers the perfect combination of luxury, convenience and European hospitality. Offering five relaxing and private rooms, each including garden fresh flowers (when in season), chocolates and wine glasses, luxurious linens and hand-made lavender soaps.
Enjoy a breakfast by candlelight, afternoon tea or borrow a romantic picnic basket and head out for a picnic. For horse owners, this could be the ultimate camping vacation. Where else can you take your family whitewater rafting one day and take your horses out on miles of local trails the next. Enchanted April offers accommodations for your horses, facilities include: a riding arena, 12×24 paddocks and turnout pastures and miles of trails.
Sierra Nevada House
A historic 19th century inn, restaurant and bar surrounded by the beauty of the Sierra Foothills, the Sierra Nevada House combines rich history with modern convenience.
Six rooms, newly renovated with beautifully decorated with antiques. All rooms offer private baths and outdoor verandas with views of the river valley. Relax indoors and play outdoors; guided tours of the local hiking and mountain trails are available.
Dine in the elegant indoor dining room or enjoy live music outdoors, signature dishes include rack of lamb or grilled marinated pork chops paired with a wine from a variety of local vineyards. Be sure to visit ‘Buford’s Bar’, a true old saloon from the Wild West complete with Gold Rush décor, a great spot to socialize and enjoy a cocktail, or two.
Eden Vale Inn
Who knew a 1919 hay barn could be converted into such a tranquil and luxurious retreat! Located just minutes from the South Fork American River the Eden Vale Inn offers five unique rooms ‘designed to soothe and invigorate the spirit’, each with romantic gas fireplaces and available private garden patio entrances and outdoor seating.
From the Japanese soaking tub on the private deck, to the ornate pieces of the original barn preserved in the décor to the computerized Lutron lighting system, Eden Vale really knows how to set a mood.
The Cary House Hotel
Just a short drive from American River Recreation, The Historic Cary House is located in the heart of Downtown Placerville. Originally built in 1857, The Cary House offers a touch of historic elegance with modern amenities.
Rest, relax and revitalize in your choice of suites each named after the gold rush era; the Pacific Mine, Grand Victory, Oregon Hill and Gold Bug. Each room is uniquely designed, decorated with antique and vintage furnishings taking you back in time. Fan of the supernatural? The Cary house has rooms that have been designated as ‘hotspots’ for ghostly activity from past friendly guests.
The Cary House offers some excellent choices for dining and shopping, they are only walking distance to a variety of restaurants, antique shops, boutiques as well as easy access to local wineries.
Whether your choice is a scenic riverfront campground, a spa or country charmer getaway, or to just soak in the rich history of our area, it’s clear there is no shortage of great accommodations when planning your whitewater adventure!
These are nice places for transient and white water freaks like me. Next time it’ll make my rafting adventure a pampering weekend activity. Nice post. Ciao !