Mokelumne River Kayaking
  

Paddling a flat water river is a great way to enjoy the outdoors. It enables the paddler to take in the scenic views and wildlife in its natural habitat. The Mokelumne River from the Fish Hatchery to Stillman L. Magee Park is a flat water paddler’s paradise on hot summer days, with its cool, refreshing water, and scenery so beautiful that it’s hard to remember you are only thirty minutes from Stockton.

Flat water kayaking down the Mokelumne River is one of the most relaxing things you can do. You ease into a soothing, rhythmic motion as you paddle through ripples and eddies. As the river winds its way along picturesque foothills and canyons, you can catch a glimpse of a variety of birds, such as great white herons, geese, ducks, and turkey vultures. The area is also home to an abundance of wildlife, so it should come as no surprise to see raccoons, opossums, beavers, deer, river otters and skunks.

The waterways of the Mokelumne River can easily be navigated by a novice kayaker, but are still challenging enough for paddlers who seek more of an adventure. The river offers both flat and white water paddling, with faster water during spring runoff. Early in the season, the river can be quite fast and high, but later in the year, you can scrape on rocks in a few places. During low water level, there are some shallow spots with sand bars.

The 4-mile section of river from the Fish Hatchery to Stillman Mcgee Park has Class I moving water most of the way, but no rapids other than an occasional little rifle. However, keep in mind the river can become more turbulent after a heavy rain. High spring waters on the river can also create water hazards.

The stretch of the Mokelumne between the Fish Hatchery just below Camanche Dam to Stillman Mcgee Park is suitable for sit on tops and recreational kayaks, and paddlers who are able to maneuver in a current around rocks, downed trees and branches along the shore.

Map of Mokelumne River

  
 
 
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