American River North, Middle, and South Fork
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The American River's North, Middle, and South Forks offer one of Northern California's best opportunities for outdoor adventures. Flowing through the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills, the corridor is popular for kayaking, whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, swimming, and gold panning, with the BLM managing river recreation on the North and South Forks. RV travelers will find developed campgrounds plus some dispersed camping, and reservations are recommended for the developed sites during the busy rafting season. Most areas are reached by paved highways and maintained roads. Visitors will find picturesque river canyons, miles of scenic trails, and historic mining sites, and nearby campgrounds and public recreational areas make it easy to spend several days enjoying the American River.
Quick Facts About RVing in American River (North, Middle & South Forks)
• RV Friendly: Yes • Max RV Length: Varies by campground) • Camping Type: Developed and dispersed • Reservations: Recommended for developed campgrounds • Hookups: Limited • Dump Station: Limited • Potable Water: Available at many developed campgrounds • Cell Service: Varies from good to limited • Pets: Allowed if under owner's control • Roads: Paved highways and maintained campground roads • Best Seasons: Spring through fall
Why RV Travelers Love This BLM Area
• Excellent whitewater rafting and kayaking • Scenic riverside camping opportunities • Beautiful Sierra Nevada landscapes • Great fishing and swimming access • Historic gold panning locations • Miles of hiking and biking trails • Easy access to multiple recreation areas
What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
South Fork American River via Greenwood Creek Trail
The South Fork American River via Greenwood Creek Trail near Lotus is a good trail for all skill levels. It follows the path of the river and has beautiful views and river access. Occasionally, rattlesnakes have been sighted nearby, so be cautious in the area.
Length: 2.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
Middle Fork American River Quarry Trail
The Middle Fork American River Quarry Trail near Auburn follows the river where the railroad carrying limestone from the quarry once traveled. The trail passes a large cave that was studied by paleontologists and also was mined at one time. It ends in the quarry, where beautiful limestone formations rise high above the trail.
Length: 10.8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
American River and Folsom Trail Loop
The American River and Folsom Trail Loop is near Folsom and is a loop trail that is good for all skill levels. There is a bike trail next to the hiking trail. Most of the trail follows the river, but part of the trail goes through the historic downtown area of Folsom. Eagles and cormorants can sometimes be seen along the trail.
Length: 10.9 miles
Intensity: Easy
Fishing and Boating
The many lakes in the area, as well as parts of the river, are great for fishing. Folsom Lake, where the three branches of the river meet, is home to bass, trout, bluegill, salmon, and catfish. The South Fork section of the lake is especially known for catches of trophy-sized bass. Boating is also popular on Folsom Lake.
Climbing
If you like rock climbing, you can find some great sites along the river. One example is Riverside Boulder on the Middle Fork of the American River, which has three climbing routes.
Wildlife Viewing
The areas near the river are great for birdwatching. Quail, doves, blue jays, bluebirds, warblers, and eagles have been seen in the area. Coyotes, mule deer, black bears, and mountain lions are some of the mammals that make their home near the river. Fish, including trout, are plentiful. The lakes above 6,000 feet in elevation were previously without fish, but recently, fish have appeared in those lakes as well.
Picnicking
Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, where the three branches of the river meet, is a great spot for picnicking. The recreation area has many family picnic sites, including Willow Creek, Granite Bay, Beals Point, and Brown's Ravine.
Whitewater Rafting
You can go whitewater rafting on all three branches of the river, but the South Fork is the most family-friendly and easy for rafting. The other two forks are best left for experts.
Bureau of Land Management Camping
RV Camping 
Bureau of Land Management campgrounds with developed facilities are not available in this area. Developed RV camping options in the area include Auburn RV Park in Auburn near the North Fork of the American River and Ponderosa RV Resort on the South Fork in Lotus. Both campgrounds have full hookups for RVs.
Developed Campgrounds
Several developed campgrounds are spread throughout the American River corridor, particularly along the South Fork and nearby recreation areas, and they're run by a mix of public agencies and private operators. Visitors can find amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, vault or flush toilets, potable water, and even boat launch access at some locations. While most public campgrounds don't offer RV hookups, they do provide convenient access for fishing, rafting, hiking, and swimming.
Dispersed Camping
Dispersed camping is available through select BLM-managed areas near portions of the American River, although the opportunities are more limited than at the developed campgrounds. These primitive sites don't provide hookups, potable water, dump stations, or trash service, so visitors should arrive in a fully self-contained RV prepared for both paved and maintained gravel roads. In most BLM areas, camping is limited to 14 days within a 28-day period. Follow Leave No Trace practices, pack out all trash, and check current fire restrictions before you go, since they can change quickly during the dry season.
Is This BLM Area Good for Your RV?
The American River's North, Middle, and South Forks are great destinations for RV travelers looking to enjoy California's forests, rivers, and other outdoor recreation. Developed campgrounds throughout the river corridor will accommodate many different RV types. However, hookups are limited at most public campgrounds. • Camper Vans: Camper vans are some of the best choices when exploring the American River recreation areas. Their compact size makes parking easy at the trailheads, campgrounds, and river access points. • Travel Trailers: Small and mid-sized travel trailers are well suited for the developed campgrounds throughout the area. Most offer spacious sites with easy access to nearby recreational areas. • Fifth Wheels: Fifth wheels can comfortably stay at many of the developed campgrounds throughout the river corridor. RVers with large rigs should confirm campsite lengths before making reservations. • Class A Motorhomes: Class A motorhomes are a great choice for larger RV sites throughout the area. Stay on paved highways and established campgrounds. • Class B Motorhomes: Class B motorhomes are perfect for travelers planning to visit multiple recreational areas throughout the corridor. Their maneuverability makes exploration simple and convenient. • Class C Motorhomes: Class C motorhomes provide a great balance of comfort and accessibility. They fit well in most of the developed campgrounds throughout the region and provide plenty of space to enjoy an extended stay.
Free Camping 
BLM land is usually available for free dispersed camping on undeveloped sites. However, the BLM land near the South Fork of the American River is not available for camping. Check with the BLM before you go to find out the rules for camping on their land near the North Fork or Middle Fork of the river.
RV Rentals Near American River North, Middle, and South Fork Plan your next adventure
Planning your American River North, Middle, and South Fork BLM trip
Bureau of Land Management free camping is allowed on most of the BLM land in California, with the exception of the South Fork of the American River. Dispersed camping refers to camping on unimproved sites on BLM land. To find a site, look along the unpaved roads in the area to see previously used campsites. They will have packed-down dirt in a cleared-out area, maybe with a fire pit nearby. You can only stay in a dispersed camping site for at most 14 days at a time.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
What RV Travelers Should Know Before Arriving
The American River recreational areas are a popular destination for RVers, especially during the spring and summer rafting seasons. Many of the area's developed campgrounds provide restrooms and potable water. However, RV hookups and dump stations are limited, so it helps to locate a California RV dump station along your route before you go. RV supplies, restaurants, groceries, and fuel are all available in nearby communities like Placerville, Coloma, and Auburn. Cell service varies throughout the river canyon, with stronger coverage near towns and limited reception in remote areas. You can access most recreational sites via paved highways and maintained roads.
Leave No Trace 
The BLM urges people to "leave no trace" on the land. This means that you need to take all your garbage and other items with you when you leave. You should leave the campsite and surrounding land in as natural a condition as you can. This includes not piling up rocks, logs, or leaving anything behind that would indicate that you were there. The next people to use the campsite want to see a pristine natural site just as you did when you arrived.
American River North, Middle, and South Fork Location
The North, Middle, and South Forks of the American River start in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and end in Folsom Lake near Folsom, California. The address of the BLM office responsible for these lands is:
Mother Lode Field Office
5152 Hillsdale Circle
El Dorado Hills, CA 95762
Ready to visit the North, Middle, or South Fork of the American River? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
Plan Your Day at American River (North, Middle & South Forks)
• Morning: The cooler morning hours are perfect for hiking trails along the river, casting a line for trout, or enjoying a peaceful paddle before all the crowds arrive. The Confluence Recreation Area and the Cronan Ranch Trailhead are great places to hike, bird-watch, and photograph the river canyon. • Afternoon: Whitewater rafting, swimming, kayaking, and gold panning at designated access points throughout the river valley are great activities for the afternoon. You can take in scenic overlooks while exploring historic communities like Coloma along the river corridor. • Evening: After returning to your RV in the evening, you can relax as the sun sets over the Sierra Nevada foothills, listening to the sounds of the flowing river and unwinding beneath the stars. It's a great way to end your outdoor adventure.
Nearby Attractions
Surrounded by Gold Rush towns, beautiful Sierra Nevada landscapes, and state parks, the American River is one of Northern California's most scenic outdoor recreational areas. Whether you're interested in hiking, rafting, local history, or a scenic drive, there are many nearby attractions to add to your RV adventure. • Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park: In Coloma along the South Fork, roughly 10 to 15 minutes from nearby river access points, this historic park marks the site where gold was discovered in 1848. Visitors can tour historic buildings, try gold panning, hike riverside trails, and learn about California's Gold Rush history. • Confluence Recreation Area: Near Auburn, about 30 minutes north of the South Fork area, this part of Auburn State Recreation Area marks the meeting of the North and Middle Forks of the American River. It's a popular location for hiking, photography, mountain biking, and watching whitewater rafters navigate the river. • Cronan Ranch Trailhead: Just outside Coloma, about 10 minutes from South Fork access points, Cronan Ranch offers miles of scenic trails overlooking the South Fork American River. It's a great destination for hiking, horseback riding, wildlife viewing, and spring wildflower photography. • Folsom Lake State Recreation Area: About 30 minutes downstream, Folsom Lake provides excellent fishing, boating, swimming, kayaking, and lakeside hiking. The recreation area is a popular stop for families and outdoor enthusiasts exploring the American River region. • Historic Downtown Auburn: Roughly 15 to 20 minutes from many river access points, Auburn features Gold Rush-era architecture, locally owned restaurants, museums, and boutique shops. It's a great location for a midday adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp with my RV along the American River? Yes. Numerous developed campgrounds throughout the American River corridor accommodate RVs. Look for locations particularly along the South Fork near popular recreational areas. Many locations also offer primitive camping opportunities on nearby public lands. What activities are available along the American River? Visitors can enjoy kayaking, rafting, fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, gold panning, photography, and wildlife viewing. There are scenic overlooks, historic sites, and miles of riverside trails that provide activities for visitors of all ages. Are RV hookups and dump stations available? The amenities vary by campground. Many public campgrounds offer picnic tables, potable water, restrooms, and fire rings. However, hookups and dump stations are fairly limited throughout the area. Can I bring my dog to the American River recreation areas? Yes. Pets are welcome throughout many of the recreational areas and campgrounds in the American River corridor. However, it's important that they remain under your control at all times; many locations have leash requirements. When is the best time to visit the American River? Ideally, it's best to visit the American River recreational areas from spring through fall. Spring offers whitewater rafting conditions and colorful wildflowers. Summer is perfect for kayaking, camping, and swimming. Fall brings cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery.
Rent the Right RV for This Trip
Start planning your American River adventure by choosing an RV that's built for exploring Northern California's scenic river canyons and recreation areas. Whether you settle in at a developed campground or visit multiple river access points throughout the North, Middle, and South Forks, you have plenty of options. Travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class C motorhomes, and Class B motorhomes are all great choices for this destination. Plan your next trip to American River (North, Middle & South Forks) in California by choosing your ride from these RV rentals in Auburn.