Playboating Chili Bar Hole at the American River Festival

On this page you’ll find good logistical resources for the South Fork of the American River. See also:

South Fork Logistics

  • BLM: South Fork American River 

    Bureau of Land Management’s site contains information about the South Fork and their part in managing the lands that the river flows through.

  • Dave Moore Nature Area 

    Located on Hwy 49 about two miles north of Coloma. Two miles of nature trail, much of it wheelchair-accessible, and picnic area. Historic remnants from the gold rush. Walking access to shaded swimming hole on the South Fork of the American River. Boaters may stop for picnics, but put-ins and take-outs are not allowed.

  • Henningsen-Lotus Park 

    Located on the South Fork of the American River Henningsen-Lotus Park provided a wide variety of active and passive recreational opportunities. In conjunction with the river program, athe park provides a boat launch and beach area. The park is open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. until dusk.

  • Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park 

    The gold discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter’s sawmill is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation. The park is open daily, 8 a.m. until sunset. Put-ins are allowed at North Beach, at the downstream end of the park. No take-outs.

  • River access points on the South Fork 

    Access the South Fork on the American River from several locations listed on American-Rivers.com

  • SMUD: Upper American River Project 

    SMUD’s Upper American River Project (UARP), consisting of 11 reservoirs and eight powerhouses, generates enough electricity to meet about 20 percent of SMUD’s customer demand. This site explores the relicensing process which concluded in 2007. People representing fish and wildlife, boaters and other stakeholders took part, and the agreement addresses a wide variety of concerns.

  • South Fork American River Whitewater Recreation Program 

    From El Dorado County Parks Department, information about the River Management Plan, river maps, shuttle service, flow outlooks.