Mokelumne River Day Use Area

NOTICE OF CLOSURE 
Due to high river flows and associated risk to public safety, access to the Mokelumne River Day Use Area has been closed as of Thursday, March 16th. This closure includes access to all trails, picnic sites, parking areas, and entry to the river at this location. Gates to the park have been closed and extra security is in place to enforce the closure by keeping all public out of the area. This condition is expected to remain in place indefinitely.

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 PDF <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.