a California mom’s guide to the American River

a California mom's guide to the American River

Table of Contents

I’m excited to be joining some other California moms today as we share our favorite places to cool off! June is nearly over and summer is in full swing around here. Our weather has actually been crazy lately. The beginning of the month started off down right chilly with a late-season snow storm in the local mountains. Then after an intense heat wave we’ve “mellowed” out at fairly normal June temperatures for the area. There’s one place we love visiting when the temperature climbs–the confluence of the American River.

A California mom's guide to the American River

The confluence of the American River…

…is where the North Fork and the Middle Fork of the American River join together. We stumbled on this spot by accident last year. It has quickly become our favorite spot to splash around. When the water level is low enough there’s a natural stone barrier that creates a nice lagoon area somewhat separating the North Fork from the Middle Fork. This slows the water down making it safer to take little ones.

| Read: Best Placer County Parks to Visit |

The water is COLD since it is snow melt, but on a hot day at the end of summer it feels great. It’s also crystal clear and you can see all the way to the bottom (in the middle it gets fairly deep). I’m always shocked by how beautiful and clear it is, it almost doesn’t seem real! There’s also really great rock for jumping off of and with the water so clear it’s easy to see where it’s safe to jump.

Some advice if you’re in the area and you want to check it out for yourself:
  • My children are not allowed near the “mouth”. This is where the water flows over some rocks from the North Fork to the Middle Fork. The water picks up speed here and the Middle Fork flows much more swiftly than the Northern Fork does.
  • Most of the parking is in a fee area because it is maintained by the State Park system. However, if you have a State Parks pass you can park for free. If you get there early enough you can usually find free parking just across the bridge on Highway 193.
  • You will have a short walk down to the water and the riverbed is quite rocky. Water shoes are recommended, although not necessary.
  • Bring sunscreen and/or shelter because there isn’t a whole lot of shade down by the water. We also always bring snacks and water so our kids will be okay to stay awhile.
  • There are trash cans and bathrooms up by the parking area, but be prepared to pack out whatever you take in. We always try to teach our children to leave an area cleaner than you find it!
What’s your favorite way to cool off when summer gets too hot?

Always be extremely cautious when you’re swimming in open water. My two older children can swim but they know it’s a rule that they wear life vests if they’re going in past their knees. As I mentioned, this is a swimming hole that is best and most safely enjoyed in later August or even September, especially after a heavy snow year like we experienced this past winter.

 Don’t forget to head over to these other California momma’s blogs and check out their favorite places to cool off:

Jenny at Princess Turned Mom

Sarah at Foxy’s Domestic Side

Tips for visiting the American River.