The Sacramento River and the San Joaquin River meet in the San Joaquin Delta before flowing into San Francisco Bay. The Delta offers more than 1,000 miles of navigable rivers, creeks, and channels. Fishing, boating, camping, and water sports are among the activities mentioned there. So an exploration is not focused on just one lake, but on a far-reaching network of waterways.
Water as a common thread
Mossdale Crossing Regional Park provides access to the San Joaquin, Middle, and Old rivers. The park has a large, two-lane boat ramp with a floating dock. The Stockton Channel offers a different perspective: the deep channel leads to an active port directly connected to the Pacific Ocean. Stockton Downtown Marina offers kayak rentals and a waterfront promenade for strolling. Seasonal offerings may change; check the latest details before visiting.
The lakes and riverbanks also differ. Wortley Lake covers three acres and has a 40-foot-high water fountain. Catfish and trout are stocked seasonally in the ten-acre Oak Grove Lake. Westgate Landing Regional Park has a 0.5-mile stretch of riverbank; the park is suitable for fishing and picnicking. For camping, it has eleven sites without hookups, or for fully self-contained RVs. No electricity, water, or sewer hookups are available there.
For an idea of what to expect during the year, San Joaquin County’s climate offers a general guide: summers are warm and dry, and winters are mild. Seasonal conditions may vary. If you’re looking for a hotel, you can use the focus of your trip—waterways, nature trails, or cultural sites—as a starting point for your search.
Nature: riparian forest, lakes, and trails
Caswell Memorial State Park protects one of California’s last remaining oak riparian forests. In the Woodbridge Wilderness Area, you’ll find native flora and fauna typical of San Joaquin County, as well as a 0.25-mile stretch of riverbank along the Mokelumne River. Anglers can catch trout, black bass, and catfish there. Visiting hours are limited to certain weekends; check the applicable hours before your visit.
The trails also vary in length and character: the Mi-Wuk Trail runs for 1.5 miles through groves of old trees. The Yokuts Trail is an accessible, 0.25-mile nature trail. The Sunshine Trail, in turn, is a living exhibit of native plant habitats that have shaped local history.
Science, history, and garden culture
The World of Wonders Science Museum offers interactive, science-based exhibits and programs for all ages. It is one block north of Lodi Transit Station. If you’re traveling by public transit, check current connections. The Haggin Museum is in Victory Park at the intersection of Pershing Avenue and Rose Street, not far from Interstate 5; check current opening hours before your visit.
History is also reflected in smaller details. Harmony Grove Church was built in 1859 and is protected as a registered landmark. The San Joaquin County Historical Museum has eight exhibit buildings and four historic buildings. It hosts the Festival of Trees every December. Stockton Cambodian Buddhist Temple has more than 90 colorful, jewel-encrusted statues larger than life, depicting the life and history of the Cambodian Buddha. A Cambodian New Year celebration is held there every April.
The Japanese Garden at Micke Grove features cherry blossom trees; the garden also includes a teahouse and a koi pond. The Lodi Wine & Visitor Center offers another facet of the local wine selection: it features a rotating selection of wines from more than 80 local wineries and seated tastings. Operating details may change; check the latest information before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Stockton, Manteca, Ripon, Tracy, Lathrop, Lodi, Lockeford, Acampo, Escalon.
For the main travel overview: California.
