Outdoor Education Program
- About Mother Lode’s Outdoor Education
- Gold Rush History – 4th grade curriculum
- River Study – 5th and 6th grades curricula
- Life Skills Development – 4th-12th grades
- Youth Adventure Programs
- Wilderness Tournament
- Program Prices
- Feedback from Programs
- The American River, a History – good reading, and background material for your trip
Outdoor Education at Mother Lode River Center
Mother Lode River Center is located on the South Fork of the American River, in the historically and ecologically rich foothills of the Sierra Nevada. Our 12-acre, riverside camp is an ideal setting for our program’s dynamic approach to education. Students learn about the riparian environment first hand, acquiring a greater understanding of the essential roles watersheds play in our lives. For students of California history, Mother Lode River Center offers a unique opportunity: the Marshall Gold Discovery State Park, located less than 3 miles away. Groups interested in team building will enjoy our challenge ropes course and life skills programs.
Our mission: to provide experiential education programs which incorporate hands-on, science-based learning, adventure, team and community building and a broad spectrum of cultural heritage activities. These programs promote deeper understanding, respect and a sense of responsibility for ourselves, our community, and our vital role in the ecological web.
Mother Lode River Center is a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Large grassy areas allow for comfortable camping near the river, and four large river stone masonry campfire rings located next to the river make a great place to listen to the river, gaze at the stars, share stories about the day, or roast a marshmallow. Your meals will be prepared in our commercial kitchen and served on picnic tables with a view of the river. Our modern bathroom facilities feature showers with unlimited hot water and flush toilets. All the comforts of home!