The Mokelumne River Day Use Area is a popular access point to the Mokelumne River and for visitors to the Mokelumne River Fish Hatchery.
Popular activities include picnicking, strolling along trails, fishing for steelhead and salmon, and wading and swimming. This park also affords rafting access to a beautiful stretch of river downstream.
Of special interest is the salmon spawning season, which is generally October through December. During this time, many large adult chinook salmon can be seen returning from the ocean. In November, at the peak of spawning season, hatchery visitors can watch hatchery staff collect eggs. The Mokelumne River Fish Hatchery, operated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, is open seven days a week, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. More information is available on the CDFW website or call 209-759-3383.
Watch the virtual fish hatchery tour
Resources
| Document | Type | Size |
|---|---|---|
| Mokelumne River Day Use Area Map | <1 MB |
Things to do
Picnicking
There are 14 picnic sites with tables and barbecues, plus undeveloped riverside access. Special consideration has been given to visitors with disabilities with the addition of an ADA accessible vaulted restroom, trail, picnic site and fishing pier.
Fishing
Fishing season at the day use area runs from January 1 to March 31 and from the 4th Saturday in May to October 15. Closing the area to fishing seasonally helps boost the steelhead and salmon fishery, and is in compliance with California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations.
Bring your dogs
Dogs are allowed, but only on leash.
Swimming
Enjoy swimming and wading in the river.
Hiking
Stroll along trails from the day use area to the hatchery.
Rafting
You'll find easy river access for rafting the downstream stretch of river, with a take-out facility at Stillman Magee Park operated by the County of San Joaquin. Check the county website for more information or call 209-953-8800.