Bring California History to Life
The Ultimate 4th Grade Gold Rush Field Trip
Step back into 1854 with 49er Fun! A hands-on, Christ-centered living history adventure for 4th Graders, designed for Christian schools, homeschool groups, and families.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:21
Where History and Faith Collide
At Rock-N-Water, we believe a field trip should be more than just facts in a textbook. 49er Fun is a fully immersive, living-history experience where students become 1850s pioneers. Set along the historic South Fork of the American River, your class will step away from screens and into an unforgettable adventure.
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Curriculum-Aligned Learning: Crafted with 4th graders in mind, our program aligns perfectly with California history curriculum.
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Faith-Building Moments: Through stories, nature hikes, and quiet devotionals, students will return home with a deeper relationship with their Creator.
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Immersive "Time-Travel" Magic: Interact with costumed historical characters, from local gold miners to Native American educators.
David C
"We had a fantastic experience as we learned about California history, enjoyed God's created natural beauty... it was a perfect blend of education and fun."
Hands-On Activities!
What will your students do during their trip back to 1854?
Pan for Gold:
Grab a pan and join a local miner down by the river to search for real gold.
Cook & Create:
Step into a Pioneer Kitchen to make traditional butter, tortillas, and fresh ice cream.
Explore Historic Mines:
Journey inside real, old-fashioned gold mines and learn the secrets of early prospectors.
Cultural Exploration:
Follow a Native American educator to learn local indigenous history, traditions, and games.
Master Pioneer Skills:
Learn old-fashioned trades, including rope-making, candle-dipping, and leatherworking.
Campfire Hoedowns:
Cap off your night around the campfire with old-fashioned music, storytelling, instruments, and contra dancing.
Choose Your Living History Adventure
We offer customizable packages to fit your school's schedule, budget, and goals.
The Greenhorn
Best For: First-time schools looking for a quick sample of the living history experience.
Price
Duration
$84
Full Day (Day Trip)
Includes
The Double Jack
Best For: A fully immersive trip with historical crafts, skits, and deep peer-to-peer fellowship.
Price
Duration
$244
2 Full Days, 2 Nights
Includes
The Prospector
Best For: An overnight camping trip completely packed with hands-on, pioneer craft-making.
Price
Duration
$158
2 Days, 1 Night
Includes
The Triple Jack
Best For: The trip that blends historical education with a high-energy river adventure.
Price
Duration
$333
2 Nights, 3 Days
Includes
The Mother Lode
Best For: A balance of camp activities with historic tours of California’s gold landmarks.
Price
Duration
$168
1 Night, 2 Days
Includes
Ready to Step Into 1854?
Let our team handle the logistics so you can focus on making memories with your students.
More Information
Please contact us to learn more about our 4th-grade field trips or to check on specific availability for your class. We’d love to answer any questions you have about planning your trip to gold country.