OARS American River Rafting Outpost
Location
7330 River Park Drive, Lotus, CA 95651
Phone
Local Phone: 530-626-5600 | Toll-Free: 855-541-4792
Office Hours
April-September
Mon-Fri: 6am – 6pm, PST;
Sat-Sun: 7am – 5pm, PST
October-March
Mon-Fri: 7am – 5pm, PST
ABOUT OARS
OARS is a family-owned and operated whitewater rafting outfitter based in California, offering professionally guided ½-, 1-, and 2-day rafting trips on the American River since 1969. To explore all our rafting trip options on the American River, please visit our American River rafting page. The information below outlines your options for camping in Lotus, CA before and/or after your American River rafting trip with OARS.
AMERICAN RIVER RAFTING QUICK LINKS
RAFT & CAmp with us on the American River
If you’re ready to spend a night or two under the stars before or after your South Fork American River rafting trip, we’re here to help with whatever you need! If you have your own gear, you can pitch your own tent at one of our great campsites. Of course, if you’re not a regular camper, we have all the gear that you might need available for rent. Finally, if sleeping on the ground just isn’t your style, then you might be interested in the pre-set cabin tents at our OARS at EarthTrek campground next door, which are fully equipped to make your camping excursion both comfortable and relaxing.
EXPLORE THE OUTPOST
Take a 3D walking tour of the OARS American River Outpost. Visit the Camp Store, head down to the beach or pick the perfect camping spot for your next visit.
Come Early or Stay Late
OARS offers limited camping for rafters before and/or after your trip at the American River Rafting Outpost in Lotus. All nights of camping are $15 per person per night. Advance reservations are required. Please call 530-626-5600 to reserve.
Whether you’re interested in relaxing in the shade, swimming by the beach, or enjoying a good cookout, our campground is the perfect way to extend your rafting trip into a fun-filled California getaway.
Campground Features
Equipment and Tent Rentals
If you don’t have your own camping gear, please ask about renting ours! Whether it’s a tent, a sleeping bag, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered.
Our tents fit two adults comfortably and cost $30 per tent to reserve. Family tents cost $50. Our sleep kits cost $25 per person and contain a sleeping bag, sleep sheet, pillow, pillowcase, and an air- and foam-filled ground pad. Alternatively, you can rent just an air- and foam-filled ground pad for $10 per person.
Rentals should be arranged in advance of arrival.
To reserve camping gear, call 530-626-5600.
Catered Meal Options
Dinner and breakfast are available by request for groups of 12 or more; if your group is smaller, please ask about dates we are already serving meals, and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.
Meals available:
- Hot Breakfast: $25 + tax
- Appetizers, Dinner, and Dessert: $35 + tax
- Overnight Meal Package (includes dinner & hot breakfast): $60 + tax
Dinner menus change regularly but always include a main course, a fresh salad, and at least one side.
Please ask us about the ability to accommodate your dietary needs or restrictions. If you prefer, we can recommend some delicious dining options within walking distance!
Elevate Your Camping
Elevate your camping experience with cozy pre-set cabin tents at our neighboring camp, OARS at EarthTrek.
Cabin Tent Rental Options:
- Small Cabin Tents: $80 per night per tent (4-person maximum)
- Large Cabin Tents: $100 per night per tent (10-person maximum)
- River Tents: $100 per night per tent (3-person maximum)
Please note that camping reservations must be made in advance of arrival, and guests may check in between 4 and 8 PM.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AfFordable CAMPING WITH OARS!
Find Your Perfect Adventure
American River Rafting Adventures
South Fork American River Rafting Gorge 1-Day
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Easier to Moderate
Minimum Age:
8 (10-12 during high water)
Chili Bar Rafting on the South Fork American 1/2-Day
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Easier to Moderate
Minimum Age:
8 (10-12 during high water)
South Fork Whitewater Rafting 21-Miler 1-Day
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Moderately Challenging
Minimum Age:
12
South Fork American River Team Building Express
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Easier to Moderate
Minimum Age:
8 (10-12 during high water)
Two-Day South Fork American River Rafting
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Easier to Moderate
Minimum Age:
8 (10-12 during high water)
California Whitewater Guide School
Location:
California
Adventure Level:
Challenging
Minimum Age:
18
Useful Travel Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions?
Call 530-626-5600 to speak with an Adventure Consultant
Where can I learn more about the American River rafting and camping options?
OARS has a digital American River Rafting catalog that has everything you need to know about California’s most popular rafting destination. The full catalog can be found here.
Can I drive to my campsite?
All campsites are walk-in only. Hand carts are available to help move your gear to your campsite. Please return them as soon as you’re done.
Can I bring my dog to the OARS American River Rafting Outpost?
Unfortunately, NO DOGS are allowed at our campground. Some of our guests are afraid of dogs, others are allergic and still others are disturbed by them at night. Please find other arrangements for your pets.
Can I reserve a specific campsite?
No. We assign camp sites based on a number of factors, such as group size, group type and how many days guests are staying. You are welcome to put in a request, but we cannot guarantee you will be camped in that specific site.
Is there poison ivy or poison oak at the American River Rafting Outpost?
There is no poison ivy, but there is A LOT of poison oak around camp. We encourage guests to learn to identify and avoid this plant. You will not touch poison oak if you stay in the campsites or on our designated trails.
What should I bring to cook or barbecue with?
For most of the spring and summer, fires are PROHIBITED throughout the area. This means no campfires and no charcoal grills. Propane grills and stoves are allowed.
Can I bring my RV?
Trucks, vans or vehicles with rooftop tents, and RVs and trailers less than 30’ long are welcome to be parked in our parking lot, with advance notice. Hook-ups are not available. Generators are strictly prohibited. Please ask us about local campgrounds that can accommodate your needs.
What time is check-out?
If you’re rafting on the day you are departing, please clear your campsite prior to your trip. If you’re not rafting on your departure day, please pack and empty your campsite by 11 AM. You may stay and enjoy our facilities; however, we need to prepare the site for our next guests.
What time are quiet hours?
Quiet hours are between 9 PM and 6 AM and are strictly enforced by the county.
Do you sell beer, wine or liquor?
No, but there are stores within 1 mile of the Outpost that have a variety of adult beverages.
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