Swimming/sunning spots along American or Yuba River
 

We're planning a trip to the Sierras this summer. What my (teen) kids really want to do is hang out/sun/jump in nice swimming holes along the river. I'm picturing areas with lots of boulders where the current isn't raging. We're thinking American or Yuba. Any suggestions?

The rivers in N. California are notorious for swift undercurrents with drownings being very common. I would stick to the Sierra lakes. Lake Tahoe or Donner. Truckee River between Tahoe city & Alpine Meadows may be OK.

There are a lot of smaller lakes in the Sierras too - if you are going to be on the north end of Hwy 49, the Lakes Basin area is there, which does indeed live up to its name.

There are some good swimming holes along both of these rivers, but I'd be reluctant to suggest them because what might have been a good hole in the past can change from year to year since the current can change the river bottom. We've had quite a bit of weather this winter, so be very careful. The rivers can be quite wonderful, but never underestimate them.

Thank you all for your advice. And yes, we LOVE Lakes Basin and want to return.