Whitewater Rafting Adventures with OARS on the American River - Photos by Karen Kefauver

On June 1, 2013, I joined OARS for a whitewater rafting day trip on the South Fork of the American River, which runs from the crest of the Sierra Nevada mountain range to its confluence with the Sacramento River. OARS' scenic new camp was about an hour's drive from Sacramento, California. In addition to the joy of the whitewater rapids, I was also lucky enough to participate in the company's first raft and dine program, called, "Fork, Cork and Paddle," which included a fabulous farm-fresh meal paired with regional wine after the day's adventures. 

I think my rafting photos, below, sum it up best. Plus, thanks to OARS' photography partner, Hot Shot Imaging, who took the whitewater action shots while I was too busy paddling! (You can also buy photos from them when you raft!) I wrote a story about my great trip in the Santa Cruz Sentinel. Here's the link to my story: http://www.karenkefauver.com/spin-city/Cyclist-Swaps-Singletrack-Trails-Whitewater-Rafting.

There I am in green striped shirt laughing with delight going through Class III rapids on the South Fork of the American River during OARS day trip, near Sacramento, California. Photo credit: Hot Shot Imaging

OARS River Park Adventure Campground is located in a gorgeous spot in Lotus, California, about an hour's drive from Sacramento. Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

My friend Hank and I were excited to go on the American River whitewater rafting day trip called Fork, Cork and Paddle. We listened intently to the rafting safety briefing before getting in the boats. Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

We learned what to do if the boat flips over or if we fall out of the raft. Safety talk was well done!

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

We were all excited to go out on the American River. Each OARS boat had about 7 people and each boat had a guide.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

We were prepared for Class III rapids!

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

Our rafting day included a picnic lunch and a brief talk about river conservation. 

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

I was delighted to share a raft with OARS founder George Wendt. 

When paddlers "high five" their paddles it is a way of celebrating together!

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

I could only take pictures of fellow rafters when we were not in the rapids. I kept my camera safe in a few waterproof plastic bags. Ideal if you have a waterproof camera.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

Our raft guide, Marcelo Granados, pictured with George Wendt, right, founder of OARS.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

Next time I visit OARS, I will stay overnight at the campground!

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

The OARS campground is in an ideal spot next to the American River.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

Every time I go whitewater rafting I have a smile that just won't quit!

Photo credit: Hank Coffin

We were all excited for a delicious dinner that was part of our Fork, Cork and Paddle trip on the American River.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

Fork, Cork and Paddle with OARS features local vintners. Pictured here the mother-daughter team from  Lava Cap Winery.

Photo credit: Karen Kefauver

My next whitewater adventure? I think I will go on this trip! This fun big billboard is at the OARS campground to provide food for thought for your next trip!

Photo credit: Hank Coffin

Here's more about OARS, an award-winning, nature-based company since 1969 - from their Facebook page and website: www.oars.com.

Mission
We strive to enrich people's lives by providing outstanding adventure experiences. Our goal, since 1969, has been to help people of all ages enjoy "the best outdoor experience of their lives." We personally encourage and actively support awareness, deeper appreciation, and preservation of our rivers and natural ecosystems. Our trips are great adventures that emphasize heightened attentiveness to human impact on the environment.

Description
"The best river & sea outfitter on Earth!" - National Geographic Adventure.
With its headquarters based in Lotus, California, O.A.R.S. offers a variety of 1-day and multi-day adventure travel options including: whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, hiking and multi-sport trips across the western US and internationally.

Client and Trips
O.A.R.S. caters to active travelers of all ages and abilities with experienced, professional guides and top notch equipment and today offers more than 75 unique itineraries worldwide.

For more information on Karen Kefauver's writing and photography as a freelance journalist and social media consulting, visit: www.karenkefauver.com 

There I am in green striped shirt laughing with delight going through Class III rapids on the South Fork of the American River during OARS day trip, near Sacramento, California. Photo credit: Hot Shot Imaging