Activities & Education

Arts & Jewelry

  • Gold Rush Mercantile
    Find unique gifts, gold nuggets and jewelry, souvenirs, books, clothing, historic items and more. Located in the visitor center at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP. 530-622-6198
  • Art on the Divide Cooperative Gallery
    Drive up the hill, overlooking Coloma Valley to historic Georgetown–Art Gallery with local artists. Open Friday – Sunday aodcgallery@gmail.com 530-333-ARTS
  • Blue Lotus 530
    Local Artisan gift shop.Jewelry, Photography, Macrame, tie-dye, candles, soaps, and more… Support Small Business.  7170 Hwy 49 Lotus, Ca. 95651 916-206-1920

Construction, Feed & Hardware Stores

  • Grassroots Erosion Control Inc.
    Based in Lotus, Grassroots Erosion Control Inc is a Veteran owned and operated Erosion Control Contractor in California and Oregon. Specializing in Hydroseed, Hydromulch, Staw Blowing, Wattles, and Dust Control. 866-615-0502
  • Capital Aire Systems
    CAS is a locally owned, family operating heating, air and solar company since 1989. We handle all your heating, air conditioning and solar needs. 530-626-0948
  • El Dorado Disposal
    Waste Connections El Dorado Disposal is honored to serve the residents and businesses of El Dorado County.  We provide safe, reliable, environmentally conscience residential, commercial trash and recycling collection services.  Locally operated, we value the people, environment and relationships we share in the community.  580 Truck St. Placerville CA 95667 (530) 626-4141
  • Coloma Feed & Hardware
    Open 7 days a week, Propane, Pet Supplies, Hardware, Plumbing, RV Supplies, Horse/Livestock feed and supplies. 530-626-6300 7170 Hwy.49 in Lotus. 530-626-6300
  • Foothills Painting
    Interior and exterior full painting services, at a competitive price. No job too big or small. shawnmartin1982@gmail.com, (530) 979-0425,

Entertainment

  • Gold Discovery Park Association
    Explore the site of the gold discovery that set off the California Gold Rush at Marshall Gold Discovery SHP. Guided walking tours, gold panning lessons, hiking trails, museums, and knowledgeable docents. 530-622-6198
  • Olde Coloma Theatre - www.oldecolomatheatre.com 530-626-5282

Food

  • Sierra Rizing Bakery, Catering & Coffee House

    Cafe with locally roasted coffee-espresso drinks. Freshly baked pastries, eggs & more. For lunch try pasty’s or cheeseburgers. We also offer large verities of desserts & local hard ciders.    

    530-642-1308
  • Camp Lotus Deli
    Deli with great coffee, fresh baked goods and sandwiches, and outstanding drink selections. Open 8-5 daily from Memorial Day-Labor Day. 530-622-8672
  • The Lotus Pub
    Open Wednesday-Saturday at 4pm. Outdoor setting in the spring/summer. Beer and Wine. No reservations needed. 530-642-2114
  • Argonaut Farm to Fork Café
    A cozy, riverfront restaurant located right in the gold discovery park. Open everyday for breakfast & lunch, featuring an organic and locally sourced menu. Full espresso bar serving Sacramento’s own Temple coffee! Catering available. 530-626-7345
  • Gorilla Rock Tacos
    Open for lunch and dinners, family-oriented with a large outside patio and inside dining area. Fresh locally sourced ingredients with gift shop and snack items. Local wines and 48 beers on tap. 530-334-3514
  • Whitewater Pizza Co.
    Pizza, salad, BBQ and Live Music on the river. whitewaterpizzaco@gmail.com 530-457-4992
  • Marco's Café
    7221 CA-49, Lotus, CA 95651  – 530-863-8505
  • River Shack
     7170 CA-49 #10, Lotus, CA 95651  –   530-626-1334

Groceries & Markets

  • Sutter Center Market
    ATM and EBT accepted. Groceries, beer, wine, liquor, lotto, river/camping supplies & fishing license. Close to Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. Open 7 days a week. 530-626-0849
  • Camp Lotus General Store
    Basic groceries, deli, clothing, and unique gifts. Open February through October everyday, 8-5. 530-622-8672
  • Barm Bargains Market

    Barm Bargains Market – Newest year-round Certified Farmers Market! Bringing you fresh produce, meats, cheeses, mushrooms, baked goods, food vendors, crafts, and live music. Space plentiful at BarmHaus Brewing Co. Sundays noon-4pm. 

    415-680-4181

Kayak Instruction

  • Coloma Shuttle
    The Coloma Shuttle is a private boater shuttle service on the South Fork of the American River funded by a grant from the El Dorado County Air Quality Management District. Our low cost shuttle fee $10.00 per boater picks up you and your gear. 530-303-2404
  • The River Store
    The River Store
    Kayaking-Rafting-Camping. Sales, rentals & World Class Kayak Instruction. Clothing, snacks, drinks, sundries and outdoor accessories. Visitor’s info, local experts, maps & books. Over 32 years in Lotus! info@theriverstore.com 530-626-3435
  • Current Adventures
    Current Adventure Kayak School & Trips
    Over 25 years guiding and adventures in California and beyond! Professional, local instructors, small classes of 3:1 ratio. Whitewater and lake outings. Kids & Adults camps. info@CurrentAdventures.com 530-333-9115
  • California Watersport Collective
    World class kayak instruction on the American River and surrounding regions. We offer single and multi-day trips and classes in whitewater kayaking and standup paddleboarding for ALL ages and skill levels. 530-426-2820

Lodging

  • Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast
    Relax and enjoy your stay at this Estate Property with panoramic views of the Coloma Valley and river. Mediterranean landscape with countless water features, along with art and antique decor.  10% discount with code “VIEW2021” 530-622-3456
  • American River Resort
    Premier lodging along the American River. Riverfront cabins, campsites, RV hook-ups, pool, fishing pond, store. Reception center and ceremony sites for your special occasion. Walk to Marshall Gold Discovery Park. 530-622-6700
  • Coloma Resort
    A Family Camping Adventure! Offering RV and tent sites, RV rentals, cabins, bunkhouses and tent cabins. Amenities include: river access, swimming pool, playground, ropes-challenge course with zip line and on-site catering services. 530-621-2267
  • Vineyard House
    Indulge in the authentic California wine & vineyard experience! Stay at this spacious, newly renovated, an luxuriously furnished home.  Enjoy 120 acres of beautiful rolling hills and vineyards along the American River in the Coloma Valley. Lodging, Weddings & Events. 530-885-WINE (9463)
  • Ponderosa RV Resort
    Cabins available nightly or weekly. RV and tent camping on 22 acres of river frontage. 30 and 50 AMP services and full hook-ups available. Open year-round. (877) 570-CAMP (2267)
  • Camp Lotus
    Friendly and beautifully maintained, natural setting with lodging & camping. Deli, store, 1/2 mile of riverfront. Wonderful for weddings, reunions and special events. 530-622-8672
  • Coloma Cottages
    Gated and intimate Coloma Cottages are on riverfront property and conveniently located near Marshall Gold Discovery State park, guided rafting tours, wine tasting and more. Reserve one or all !
    530-334-3479
  • American River Inn
    Originally built as a private residence in 1853, the historic American River Inn is an elegant and welcoming Bed and Breakfast offering old-fashioned hospitality in a charming setting! 530-333-4499
  • Eden Vale Inn
    A luxury B&B, Resort & Spa. Named one of “America’s Top 10 Most Romantic Inns”! Enjoy modern guest rooms, lush gardens & ponds, on-site spa and a fabulous gourmet breakfast. #1 on Trip Advisor. 530-621-0901
  • Affordable RV Rental and Repairs
    Rentals, Repairs, Sales and Parts. Family owned and operated since 1996 530-889-8174

Organizations

  • American River Recreation Assocation
    Since 1979, ARRA has been facilitating and promoting public river access, river use education, and recreational programs throughout the river valley. 530-303-2404
  • Coloma Outdoor Discovery School
    Coloma Outdoor Discovery School (CODS)
    A Non Profit, outdoor learning center on the South Fork near the Gold Discovery Park within the Coloma Resort. 1-4 day experiences in gold rush history, science and ropes challenges. (530) 621-2298
  • Gold Trail Grange #452
    Historic building in Marshall Gold State Park. Full commercial kitchen, lighted stage and dance floor. Perfect for weddings, parties, dances and large groups. goldtrailgrange@gmail.com 530-626-1194
  • Coloma-Lotus Business Council
    Individuals and businesses dedicated to promoting business and community in the Coloma-Lotus Valley. New members welcome! 530-285-0002
  • Mother Lode Church

    A friendly, non-denominational, Bible church on the river welcoming all valley residents and visitors to Sunday Worship at 10 a.m. The dress is casual, the people authentic, the Bible taught and Jesus is celebrated. 530-622-0686

  • South Forks Arts and Recreation

    South Fork Arts and Recreation (SoFAR), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, focused on supporting the arts and recreational opportunities in the Coloma and Lotus community. 530-303-2404

  • Friends of the River -
  • Gold Discovery Park Association
    Nonprofit organization dedicated to the interpretation and conservation of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. Proceeds from Marshall Gold Mercantile fund interpretive and educational programs at the park. 530-622-6198
  • American River Conservancy
    Serving our community since 1989 by protecting and enhancing natural habitats where wildlife can flourish. Through education and recreation we promote a broad ethic of stewardship now and forever. Contact julie@ARConservancy.org or 530-621-1224
  • El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce
    Visitors Authority, Film Commission, Business Advocate. 530-621-5885
  • El Dorado County Parks - Henningsen Lotus Park
    County agency that manages Henningsen Lotus Park and its boating access. Multi-use park on the river that has a walking trail with an outdoor exercise station, picnic tables, and a beach for recreation, kayak roll practice, and boating put-in and take-out. 530-621-5360
  • Bureau of Land Management, Mother Lode Field Office
    Manages many of the public lands along the American River, issues Special Recreation Permits, and administers river recreation on the South and North Forks of the American River. 916-941-3101
  • Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
    Located on the site where James Marshall first discovered gold in California at Sutter’s Mill in 1848, this extensive park features a re-creation of the Mill, many restored historic buildings, costumed docents, a museum and library. This state park manages the North Beach boating put-in on the South Fork in Coloma. 530-622-3470

Outdoor Recreation

  • Coloma Shuttle
    The Coloma Shuttle is a private boater shuttle service on the South Fork of the American River funded by a grant from the El Dorado County Air Quality Management District. 530-303-2404
  • The River Store
    The River Store
    Kayaking-Rafting-Camping. Sales, rentals & World Class Kayak Instruction. Clothing, snacks, drinks, sundries and outdoor accessories. Visitor’s info, local experts, maps & books. Over 35 years in Lotus! info@theriverstore.com 530-626-3435
  • Reliable River Repair
    Repairing rafts, dry suits & all inflatables!! Sewing on PFD’s and river bags/camping gear. By Appointment. 415-302-4491

Photographers

  • Hotshot Imaging
    Hotshot Imaging, Inc.
    California’s largest whitewater rafting photography company taking over 1 million pictures per summer on the South & Middle Forks of the American River. All images are posted on our website each day for viewing/purchasing. www.hotshotimaging.com 530-621-0400
  • Betty Sederquist Photography and Design
    Portraits, art photos of Coloma Lotus and beyond. Old photo restoration, ad design, writing and editing, author of the book, Images of America: Coloma 530-626-0985

Professional Services

  • First Choice Signs & Graphics

    We provide all design services, signs, printing & more for a business, school or event. Exterior/interior signs, vehicle/store graphics, banners/decals/menus/flyers! We can customize a solution just for you!

    info@firstchoicesign.com 530-450-5769
  • Christina Cavanaugh, CPA
    Certified Public Accountant offering payroll, tax preparation, consulting, bookkeeping and accounting. 7170 Highway 49 Suite 7, Lotus, CA  95651 cavanaughcpa@gmail.com 530-626-9720
  • Cal.net Internet provider
    Cal.net
    Cal.net, local to El Dorado County, provides internet, web and dedicated hosting, colocation, and design services. We are here to serve you and engage in a lifelong working relationship with you. 530-672-1078
  • Spot-On Signs & Graphics
    Providing ideal sign solutions for businesses, schools & events: interior/exterior business signs, banners, vehicle graphics/wraps, trade show displays, ADA signs and so much more! info@spot-on-signs.com 530-295-8285
  • Spirit of Place - Environmental Transformations
    Achieve harmony, peace, and prosperity in your domain. Deborah Kruse will help you experience the difference that a profoundly spiritual yet practical bond with your home, workshop, and garden. 916-990-1812
  • Andrea Dodson Real Estate
    I am your go to agent for everything in/around the Sierra Nevada foothills. I stay well informed on current industry trends and my business revolves around people like you. 530-401-3828
  • Donna McMaster logo
    Donna McMaster, Web Developer
    Designing, developing and maintaining effective websites for small businesses and organizations. Creator of Coloma.com and TheAmericanRiver.com. 541-738-2973

Shopping & Outdoor Gear

  • Gold Rush Mercantile
    Find unique gifts, gold jewelry and nuggets, books, clothing, and more. Operated by the Gold Discovery Park Assoc., a nonprofit organization. All proceeds help fund interpretation and conservation programs at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park. 530-622-6198
  • Sutter Center Market
    ATM and EBT accepted. Groceries, beer, wine, liquor, lotto, river/camping supplies & fishing license. Close to Marshall Gold Discovery State Park. Open 7 days a week. 530-626-0849
  • California Watersport Collective
    Located in the heart of Lotus, this unique store boasts a robust collection of swimwear and river essentials, as well as casual clothing and other gifts created by local artist. 530-426-2820
  • Camp Lotus
    Basic groceries, deli, clothing, and unique gifts. Open February through October everyday, 8-5. 530-622-8672

Weddings & Events

  • Coloma Shuttle
    Hire one of our 14 passenger vans for your wedding or event in the Coloma Lotus Valley. Call for details. 530-303-2404
  • Coloma Resort
    A premier property for weddings & events. Offering a dramatic, grassy, riverfront location with Troublemaker Rapid as your backdrop. Cabins & campsite accommodations available for overnight guests. 530-621-2267
  • Everhart Cellars
    Hart 2 Hart Vineyards
    “Weddings 2 Remember” Create your unique wedding or event at our romantic vineyard estate. Enjoy and celebrate with fine boutique wines, beautiful  views, lavender and roses located at 5821 State Hwy. 49. 530-885-WINE (9463)
  • Gold Trail Grange #452
    Perfect for your wedding or event. Our hall nestles by the river and historic sites. 530-626-1194 www.goldtrailgrange.com goldtrailgrange@gmail.com 530-626-1194
  • Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast
    Estate property on 5 acres with a magnificent view of the historic Coloma/Lotus Valley and American River. Five different ceremony and reception sites, including a sandy beach and countless waterscapes. www.bellavistainc.net 530-622-3456
  • Sierra Rizing Bakery, Catering & Coffee House
    Full service, pickup or delivery for either a casual or discerning event crafted to fit all your needs. Unique menus, specialty desserts, and custom wedding cakes available. 530-642-9250
  • Camp Lotus
    Camp Lotus is a great place to host family reunions, weddings, anniversaries, auctions, presentations, business retreats, yoga or art workshops, and more. Deli & store, lodging, camping, and our “Barn” meeting hall. 530-622-8672
  • Joses Wine Caves
    Joses Wine Caves makes great wines.  We invite you to explore this hidden jewel and enjoy spectacular views of the Coloma Valley.  We offer estate produced wines and certified extra virgin olive oil.  Open Saturdays & Sundays 10am-5pm. 6220 Prospectors Rd. Garden Valley, CA 95633 707-695-7843
  • Argonaut Farm to Fork Café

    The historic Argonaut Farm to Fork Cafe offers a specialty coffee, breakfast and lunch menu. Celebrate your special occasion with a Catered Artisan Wood Fire Pizza Dinner in their river-front beer garden! 

    530-626-7345
  • American River Inn
    Our historic B&B is the perfect place to exchange your vows, mingle with your family and friends, and spend your honeymoon. Say “I do” in a beautiful Victorian garden setting. 530-333-4499
  • Earthtrek Expeditions American River Rafting
    EarthTrek Expeditions
    Our one-of-a-kind facility along the American River is a spectacular location for an outdoor wedding. Beautiful landscaping, 2 full kitchens, 25 deluxe cabin tents, modern restrooms and it’s very affordable. 800-229-8735

Whitewater Rafting

  • American River Recreation logo
    American River Recreation
    Providing high quality rafting trips since 1979. We offer trips for all skill levels. Family friendly floats start at just $49. Same day reservations welcomed. 1/4-day to 3-day trips available. 800-333-7238, 530-622-6802
  • Hotshot Imaging
    Hotshot Imaging, Inc.
    California’s largest whitewater rafting photography company taking over 1 million pictures per summer on the South & Middle Forks of the American River. All images are posted on our website each day for viewing/purchasing. www.hotshotimaging.com     530-621-0400
  • Raft California
    Offering whitewater adventures on over 13 rivers including the forks of the American River. From Mild to Wild, ages 4+! 1/2 day,  1 day and overnights trips available March- September. 530-626-7385
  • Coloma Shuttle
    The Coloma Shuttle is a private boater shuttle service on the South Fork of the American River funded by a grant from the El Dorado County Air Quality Management District. Our low-cost membership fee $10.00 per boater picks up you and your gear. 530-303-2404
  • American Whitewater Expeditions
    Offering fun, exciting, rafting adventures on 3 Forks of the American River since 1980. Best value guaranteed! 1/2 , 1 and 2 day trips include camping, pool and Wi-Fi. Generous Discounts. 800-825-3205, 530-642-0804
  • Earthtrek Expeditions American River Rafting
    EarthTrek Expeditions
    Mild to wild whitewater rafting trips on the American River since 1977. Beautiful private river front camp with nice landscaping, game area and large deluxe tent cabins. Ask about our group discounts. 800-229-8735
  • Whitewater Excitement
    Since 1978, Whitewater Excitement, Inc. has offered 5-star river rafting adventure on the American River. Family operated and family friendly with trip for kids as young as 4. Experience the difference. 800-750-2386
  • Beyond Limits whitewater rafting
    Beyond Limits Adventures
    Our fabulous riverfront camp resort provides the most deluxe rafting experience in the west. We specialize in custom itineraries. Prices start at $65 pp, groups of 6 or more get a 20% discount. 800-234-7238
  • River Runners
    Relax and enjoy the thrill of whitewater rafting without being rushed. We are a boutique company that provides high quality customer service, amazing meals and expert guides for your adventure. 530-622 5110
  • Rock-N-Water-Christian Camps
    Specializing in customizable 1-5 day adventures for families and youth groups, our staff is ready to deliver amazing adventures, legendary meals, and hospitality with heart. Expect to experience God! 530-621-3918
  • All Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting
    All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting
    One of California’s few original outfitters with over 50 years experience rafting ten California rivers. More people choose All-Outdoors making us the largest, most experienced outfitter on the American Rivers. 800-247-2387
  • OARS American River Rafting
    First-class whitewater rafting on the South, Middle, and North Fork of the American River, Tuolumne, Merced, and North Fork of the Stanislaus since 1969. Book online and save! 855-541-4792
  • WET River Trips
    Focusing on quality over quantity for over 40 years. Guaranteed best experience, price and most experienced guides, for any group size or type! 10% discount code “CLG” 888 RAFT-WET
  • ARTA River Trips
    ARTA River Trips
    Friendly guides, healthy food, family style non-profit since 1963. We run fantastic river trips on the best rivers in the West. 1-3 day trips in California. arta@arta.org 209-962-7873
  • Action Whitewater Adventures
    We have new gear, an amazing international staff, and we love what we do. Youth specialists. 1-7 day excursions. 888-922-8466
  • Whitewater Connection
    Whitewater Connection offers exciting 1/2-day, one-day and 2-day whitewater trips for beginners to advanced paddlers. Beautiful scenery, best river front campground in the valley! An abundance of FUN! Family operated and family friendly with trips for kids as young as 4. 800-336-7238
  • Junior Guides Raft Camp
    An Educational non-profit summer camp providing youth aged 6-16 with river safety and rafting education. 916-616-2317   916-626-2317
  • Mother Lode River Center
    Mother Lode River Trips
    Enjoy rafting combined with our Challenger Rope Course at the premier west coast, multi-sport River Center. Celebrating over 45+ years of Safety, Leadership, and Stewardship on the American River. malode.com 530-626-4187

Wineries & Breweries

  • Rosa-Lucca Estates
    Making ‘Cool’ wines from our ‘Cool’ vines. Tasting room open Fri-Sun by appointment. Located in Cool CA. 916-583-VINO
  • BarmHaus Brewing Co.

    European-Style Brewery with quality small batch exceptional beers. A must-visit treasure on a unique piece of property. Plenty of outdoor space, great for events. Open Thurs-Sat from 2-7 pm, Sun noon-7pm 530-444-0478

  • Joses Wine Caves
    Joses Wine Caves makes great wines.  We invite your to explore this hidden jewel and enjoy spectacular views of the Coloma Valley.  We offer estate produced wines and certified extra virgin olive oil.  Open Saturdays & Sundays 10am-5pm. 6220 Prospectors Rd. Garden Valley, CA 95633 707-695-7843
  • Bookshelf Wines
    Contact us for orders, delivery, and or a tasting appointment for your group. bookshelfwines2@gmail.com 530-400-7654
  • David Girard Vineyards
    DGV is committed to making elegant Rhone-inspired wines. Wine tasting available 530-295-1833
  • Rosa-Lucca Estates
    Making ‘Cool’ wines from our ‘Cool’ vines. Tasting room open Fri-Sun by appointment. Located in Cool CA. 916-583-VINO