Located at the picturesque Coloma Resort on the South Fork of the American River, Coloma Outdoor Discovery School (CODS) offers an unparalleled outdoor education experience discovering Gold Rush living history. Since 1990, CODS has been a beacon of hands-on learning, welcoming thousands of students annually from public and private organizations across California.
Immersive Gold Rush Programs
CODS provides residential programs varying from two days to three days, allowing students to step back in time to 1849 and immerse themselves in the Gold Rush era. From outfitting at the general store to hands-on gold panning, participants get a taste of the challenges and triumphs of historical miners. The second day includes a deep dive into Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, led by knowledgeable naturalists of Coloma Resort who bring history to life with engaging narratives and site visits.
Reflective Wrap-Up Activities
For those on the 3-day program, the final morning is dedicated to reflection and fun wrap-up activities. Participants engage in games and discussions that reinforce their learnings from the previous days, fostering a deeper understanding of the past and its implications for the future. Evenings at Coloma Resort are filled with campfire sessions featuring songs, skits, and cultural presentations, adding a touch of authenticity to the overall experience.
Inclusive Day Programs
If time is limited, we also offer a dynamic 1-day outdoor education program packed with interactive skits, gold pouch-making, and historical excursions. A delicious burger lunch served in a unique gold pan caps off the day, providing a memorable keepsake for participants. Naturalists guide students through the historical sites of Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, delivering captivating stories of Coloma’s Gold Rush history until departure.
Coloma Outdoor Discovery School stands as a beacon of outdoor education, offering students at Coloma Resort a gateway to the past through immersive day programs and engaging activities. Whether embarking on a multi-day adventure or diving into a condensed day session, participants are sure to leave with a deeper appreciation for California’s rich Gold Rush heritage. Call us today to learn more!
