Mokelumne Clements-Lodi in California

Trip Overview

The levee and bluff that creates the horizon during this trip creates a wonderful sense of isolation, much of the land on either side is orchards and vineyards. The trees on the levee prevent this from distracting you from your calm recreation on the placid water. The trip takes about 6 hours. Average flows are maintained for most of the year, and though logs and obstacles abound, most are cut near the water level, leaving the path clear (unless you scrape one just under water). A path is cut through most fallen trees, and even at 750 cubic feet/ second the flow was slow enough for a beginner. In the coming weeks I plan on trying the upper Mokelumne, around Elektra Road.

Accommodations:

This is a day trip, find your gear and snacks in any of the towns named above.

Fees:

Day use fee in Maggee park $5

Boat launch Fee @ 99 RV park $5

Lodi Lake parking inside the park is sometime free or $2,

right outside is free.

Directions:

From the I-5 or 99 freeways get off one highway 12 and head east through Lodi and Victor. Follow 12 to 88 and turn left.

Head through Lockeford to Clements. In Clements take Mackville Rd. to Maggee Park just before the river.

Park your takeout vehicle at Lodi Lake or at a Marina at Highway 99 for an hour shorter trip.