California River Wedding Magic: History, Charm, and Adventure

 

Exclusive access to our 200-acre riverfront estate

Tucked into the Sierra Nevada mountains, just 60–90 minutes from Lake Tahoe

Accommodations for up to 54 guests in cozy, on-site cabins

No noise ordinances. Celebrate your river wedding late into the night without curfews

A peaceful, nature-filled escape perfect for couples who dream of a riverside ceremony surrounded by forested beauty

WHERE HISTORY MEETS ELEGANCE

Are you dreaming of a California river wedding that blends privacy, natural beauty, and thoughtful design? Located in the heart of Plumas National Forest, Twenty Mile House offers a secluded, scenic alternative to traditional venues. With riverfront views, forested surroundings, and intentionally designed spaces, we create unforgettable weddings rooted in nature, connection, and authenticity. Your celebration should feel as unique as your love — and here, it can.

Explore our wedding packages

Discover the beauty of California river weddings at Twenty Mile House. Our all-inclusive wedding packages make planning effortless, combining the exclusive use of our riverfront venue with expert wedding-day coordination and trusted local vendors for catering, floral, photography, bakery, and DJ. Every detail is handled — so you can focus on what matters most.

 
 
 

Jessica & Randall at Our California Forest Wedding Venue

 
 
 

Reasons To Say ‘I Do’ by a River in California

 
river wedding california scenic.jpg

Scenic Spaces

One of the things couples love most about having a California river wedding at Twenty Mile House is how many beautiful spots there are to choose from. Maybe you envision your wedding pictures to be right in front of a calm river, saying your vows beneath the trees, or having a relaxed dinner under the open sky with all your loved ones.

Explore your style freely and let your creativity take over; the setting is flexible enough to bring it to life. It’s the kind of place that lets you plan your day your way, surrounded by the natural beauty that makes it all feel easy, peaceful, and real.

 
river wedding california peaceful.jpg

Peaceful Atmosphere

There’s something undeniably calming about being near the water and hearing it flow gently. At Twenty Mile House, couples often feel nature immediately, giving them a sense of peace and connection. Surrounded by towering trees and the gentle sounds of nature, it’s easy to forget the outside world even exists.

No traffic, no noise, no crowded spaces — just you, your people, and nature.

This kind of privacy lets you slow down, be present, and truly enjoy your wedding day. If you’re looking for a California river wedding that feels like a quiet retreat, this is the place.

 
river wedding california noise.jpg

No Noise Ordinances

One of the things couples love the most about their river wedding at Twenty Mile House is the freedom to just relax and enjoy the night without worrying about a curfew. A lot of traditional venues ask you to wrap things up by 10 p.m., but here, you’re surrounded by nature, not neighbors.

Music can stay on, the laughter can get loud, the party doesn’t have to end early, and you’ll have more time to share your special day with all your loved ones. Whether it’s dancing by the river or sharing late-night stories under the stars, you get to savor every moment without watching the clock.

 
river wedding california adventure.jpg

Eco-Friendly Adventure

If you’re the kind of couple who finds joy in the outdoors, a California river wedding is more than just a beautiful setting. At Twenty Mile House, your wedding can become a multi-day experience where nature plays a central role. Guests can explore the beauty of Plumas National Forest with activities like hiking, mountain biking, river tubing, or simply relaxing by the water. It’s adventure, at your own pace.

What makes it even more meaningful? It’s all eco-friendly. As a certified carbon-free venue and Green America–approved business, we work with local partners who source flowers and food sustainably. Hosting your wedding here means celebrating love while honoring the planet.

 

Naturally Authentic

Your wedding should reflect who you are. California river weddings are perfect for couples who value authenticity, connection, and a setting that doesn’t need to be overstyled to feel magical. Feel free to explore and find your own style — the natural surroundings offer a backdrop that feels thoughtful, personal, and effortlessly breathtaking.

The river, the trees, and the fresh air beautifully support and bring out your personality, not hide it. If the idea of a ballroom never felt quite right, Twenty Mile House offers something better: a place where your wedding feels real, relaxed, and entirely yours.

 

Real River Weddings at Twenty Mile House

 

a whimsical dream

sarah & cory

Their wedding day was a whimsical, dream come true experience, where every detail fell perfectly into place.

magic everywhere

jenni & mitch

This adventurous couple put friends, family, and fun first when planning their dream day.

free spirited boho

ava & Kevin

Warm, kind, and down-to-earth, they exuded a free-spirited nature and a deep connection to the outdoors.

Why Twenty Mile House Is the Right Choice for Your California River Wedding Venue

 

ALL INCLUSIVE

At Twenty Mile House, our all-inclusive packages make planning easy. We work with trusted local vendors for catering, photography, floral, music, and dessert — all conveniently included in one flat rate. With transparent pricing and a smooth, streamlined process, you can focus on what matters most: creating the river wedding you’ve always imagined.

HISTORIC

Once a historic stagecoach stop, general store, and post office, Twenty Mile House has long been a place where people gather and connect. Today, its quiet trails and forested grounds still carry that spirit. Hosting your river wedding here means becoming part of a story that’s been unfolding for generations, where natural beauty and timeless romance come together.

UNIQUE

No other California river wedding venue offers the same blend of natural charm and quiet luxury as Twenty Mile House. From the character of our historic general store to the peaceful flow of the river and the towering trees all around, every detail creates a stunning backdrop. The moments you share and the memories you capture will be every bit as unforgettable as the setting itself.

FAQs About Our Northern California River Wedding Venue

  • Not at all. Whether your style is laid-back or refined, the natural setting complements a wide range of aesthetics — from boho and barefoot to elegant and classic.

  • While we host weddings only during the fair-weather months (April through October), we’re always prepared with a weather plan. Our team will work closely with you to make sure your celebration stays smooth and stress-free, no matter what nature brings.

  • We offer all-inclusive packages that cover everything from catering and photography to music and florals. Our local vendor team knows the space inside and out, making the planning process seamless and personalized.

  • To protect our forest surroundings and follow local fire safety guidelines, we don’t allow wood-burning fires on the property. However, we do offer propane fire pits so you and your guests can still enjoy cozy moments outdoors — safely and responsibly.

  • Plumas National Forest offers plenty to explore—hiking, biking, river tubing, fishing, or simply relaxing in nature. A river wedding here often becomes a weekend getaway that your guests won’t forget.