The American River Experience

by JR Erspamer
(Cotati, Ca. USA)

For the second straight year our family has made the 3 hour drive to the south fork of the American River. The south fork of the river is located between Placerville and Auburn California on Highway 49.

This year was special for me because we decided to bring our new born daughter who is only 5 months old! Skeptical at first, I realized quickly she enjoyed the out doors just as much as her dear old Dad. With the rivers water level a bit high and the water temperature down to about 48 degrees we decided against taking her river rafting. Instead; we just filled up the mini blow up pool there at the campsite where she could splish splash without worrying about being swept away by the ice cold water.

The other kids found gold flakes along the rivers edge on rocks and pebbles while the rest of us adults enjoyed tossing the frisbee around telling family stories that hadn't been told in years past. With great food and good company this American River trip was one to be remembered.