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.