Located on Hwy 193 about 2 miles south of the Hwy 49 junction in Placerville. This park is managed and maintained by the American River Conservancy. Chili Bar River Park is the put-in for the upper section run of the river. They offer river put-in, picnic areas, and fishing. The cost is $6.00 for the 1st person and an additional $3 per person per car upon entrance to the booth. Open 8-8 daily.
The gold discovery site, located in the still visible tailrace of Sutter’s sawmill is one of the most significant historic sites in the nation. The cost is $10.00 per car. The park is open daily, 8 a.m. until sunset. Click here for the state park hiking map.
Located on the South Fork of the American River Henningsen-Lotus Park provided a wide variety of active and passive recreational opportunities. In conjunction with the river program, the park provides a boat launch and beach area. Entrance fee is $5.00 per car plus $5.00 per raft and $1.00 per kayak. The park is open seven days a week, from 8 a.m. until dusk.
Located on Hwy 49 about two miles north of Coloma. Two miles of nature trail, much of it wheelchair-accessible, and picnic area. Historic remnants from the gold rush. Walking access to a shaded swimming hole on the South Fork of the American River. Boaters may stop for picnics, but put-ins and take-outs are not allowed.
The Park, which borders the South Fork American River, contains 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, bird watching, dog walking, and other passive recreation. Click here for Cronan hiking map.
Photo Courtesy of Paul Cockrell Photography
