The Water is Flowing and Your Shuttle Awaits!

If you are ready for some fun whitewater rafting or kayaking, come to Coloma. The South Fork American River has guaranteed flows most days out of the week, and the Middle and North Forks are great options too! We have many outfitters equipped to take you and your group on a rafting trip that is right for you, from gentle to wild. See our Whitewater Rafting Directory for a list of licensed and experienced whitewater outfitters.

This is also a great place to learn and build whitewater kayak skills, and you can choose from several kayak schools in the area.

Even better, the River Store Shuttle is running for its second season. Leave the headaches behind and spend all your energy riding the river, not the roads!

Enjoy lots of fun on the water at the American River Festival September 11-13. It's a good time for kids and families as well as whitewater playboaters and slalom racing competitors. The weekend also offers great music, food, and a chance to check out all the latest gear. Come to Coloma-Lotus and enjoy!

p.s. Thanks to Hotshot Imaging for letting us use another of their great American River rafting photos!

History is Alive in Coloma

Coloma's characters from the past come to life this summer! On the 3rd Saturday of each month, May through September, come into the historic past through the new Summer Performance Series at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma. Meet some of the colorful and diverse people who set the stage for the powerful and tumultuous history of California. 

On May 16th, Rex Ruth portrays Captain John Charles Fremont. He takes you through his military career with passionate stories of the man who organized the first California Volunteer Militia, became one of the State's first Senators, and was appointed Major General in the Union Army during the Civil War. The Cemetery Players bring to life the stories of those who lived, died, and are buried in the cemeteries of Coloma on June 20th. John Sutter, Sam Brannan, and James Marshall share stories on July 18th around an evening bonfire. Kimberly ShiningStar will be at the Grinding Stone on August 15 with Native American history and storytelling. A grand finale September 19 brings characters from the previous performances together for visitors enjoyment. Signs will be posted in the park for the exact location of each performance.

Each event is from 7:30 to 9:00 pm with free parking beginning at 7:00 pm. Tickets may be purchased the evening of the performance or in advance at the Gold Rush Mercantile in the park. Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for children 12 and under. Please provide your own seating—bring a blanket or lawn chair and pick your spot.

The Gold Discovery Park Association sponsors this event series and all money raised goes to support the educational and interpretive programs in Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. For more information visit the GDPA website, call (530) 622-6198, or email gdpa@marshallgold.org. Come join us in the park, have fun, and help keep Coloma's Gold Rush history alive.