American River Acoustic Music Camp

What are the dates for this years camp?

Camp sign-in begins Sunday, August 1st at 1pm and ends with a farewell breakfast on Thursday, August 5th.

What is the price of the 2010 Camp?
The prices are as follow:

• Tuition: (Includes all classes and camping)

  • Adult (18+): $375
  • Young Adult (14-17): $250
  • Youth (13 and under): $130
    (Students ages 17 and under must be accompanied by an adult)

• Meals:

  • Meal package $120/person
    Sunday Welcome Dinner, 3 meals per day Monday-Wednesday, Thursday Farewell Breakfast. This package, catered by Mongo & Steve of the Blue Sun Cafe is optional, but highly recommended - last year’s menu received rave reviews.

Can a person come for just a day or two?

To get the full benefit of the classes and camp experience we recommend attending the full camp. The morning classes build upon the previous day and the evening activities bring the group together to create a special magic. If you would like to make special arrangements please call us.

Can I bring my family?

Yes, however they will not be allowed to attend any classes unless they are registered.  We do have a meal option available for guests when you click on the registration page.  Below is a list of things to do in the area.  Many people enjoyed the Hula class last year if any non-registered person is interested in that class let us know and we can make special arrangements for them to attend that one class at a nominal fee.

Is the camp  suitable for a not-still-a-beginner-but-not-very-good-yet player?

Absolutely, our classes are designed to suit players ranging from the recent beginner who is working on basic chords, to the performing musician looking to hone their skills. Our camp fosters a highly supportive environment for learning, playing and meeting like-minded people .

Is this a mixed camp with adults and kids, what’s the ratio?

The ratio is about 10 to 1, 10 adults to 1 youth. All of our younger participants were serious about music and learning. The interaction between adults and the younger students was one of more than mutual respect but also appreciation.
We believe this is a strength of our camp.

Can we record the classes?

Usually it is OK, but it must be cleared with the instructor.

Will I be able to take different classes for different instruments?

Yes, we have a flexible format. The registration form is designed to help us tailor the classes to fit the needs of the students. Please take the time to think about what you want to focus on at camp and fill the form out accordingly. Part of the fun of camp is trying new things so be prepared to explore.

Will we be camping?

Yes, sleep out under the stars, pitch your tent on the riverfront, or contact the American River Resort in Coloma in advance to reserve a RV space. The campground facilities feature hot showers, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. If your situation requires lodging,the Coloma Country Inn, Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast, Sierra Nevada House, Lotus Inn, and Casita Del Oro are all just a few minutes away.

Is there a discount if we don’t camp?

We are unable to extend a discount to non-campers because the expense we incure for use of the site is independent of the number of participants camping.

Is there anything for my family to do in the area?

Yes, just a short walk from American River Resort is the Marshall Gold Discovery Park, the site of gold discovery that sparked the California Gold Rush. The buildings and sluices of the park are maintained by the California State Parks to provide an authentic look at life in the time of the Gold Rush.

Here you can spend some time touring the historic sites, enjoy an ice cream at one of the local parlors, or peruse the treasures at one of the local antiquities stores.

Or Raft the South Fork! Experience the thrill of river rafting the South Fork of the American River. From beginner to expert, the South Fork has something for everyone. River flow control allows families to enjoy a leisurely float down the river, enjoying the beauty of the Sierra Nevada foothills and expert kayakers or rafters to enjoy the thrill of class 4 rapids. The famous Troublemaker rapid can be seen from American River Resort. Contact one of the professional river guide companies below for more information.

American Whitewater Expeditions
River and Rock Adventures
River Otter Adventure

If you enjoy wine, our camp is located in the heart of the The Sierra Foothills Wine Region which has, for many years, been California’s best kept wine secret. Explore the small and distinctive wineries of the Western Sierra Foothills that specialize in full-bodied reds and distinctive white wines.

What should we bring?

Clothing for hot days, warm or cool nights–be sure to include hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and swim suit. We say this, though we occasionally have an unseasonably cool year, which requires a whole different wardrobe, so check the weather forecast (for Coloma, CA), but usually it’s nice.

You might want to bring bug spray (we didn’t have many bugs last year but you never know).

Ear plugs (In case you have trouble sleeping due to after hours “jamming”.)

A flashlight

If you’re tent camping, bring camping supplies! (tent, sleeping bag, etc) You are supplied with is a space to camp, and access to water and bathrooms. There are picnic tables at most of the sites, and fire pits. There is also a general store on site which has most of the basic groceries available and yes they do sell ice! To help conserve resources, bring a travel mug for drinks, and a water bottle.
For classes, a notebook and pen, battery-powered recording device, and extra batteries are very helpful; Dana will be back again this year selling John Pearse strings, capos, picks, etc. for your instruments. If you have a large or heavy instrument, you may want to consider bringing a wheeled carrier for making travel to classes easier. Lightweight, easy-carry gig bags are good for the same reason. A camp stool for jamming is nice.

Our evening concerts and meals are held in the main hall which is air conditioned. Some of our classes are held in air conditioned cabins but not all. Please let us know if you have any health issues that would require you be out of the heat.