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    Headwaters Kayak Shop

    4.6 (80 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

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    Bobbie R.

    Our second time kayaking here. We rented 3 premium kayaks for 2 hours. Josh gave us a tutorial and helped us launch. The lake hooks up with the mokulemne river. Lots of waterways to explore. Birds, turtles, jumping fish. A great nature experience.

    Paddle boarding @ Lodi Lake!!!
    Jami C.

    OMG. BEST EXPERIENCE EVER because the workers are amazing! RILEY to be specific helped me so much and made good n sure I got safely on my board and also off of my board hours later! The crew of young men working here are fabulous and I can't say enough nice things! Riley was the best tho! I can't wait to come back again and again and I will recommend this rental place to anyone anytime!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THE BEST TIME EVER!!!!

    Stephen L.

    Fun time out on a really hot Sunday in Lodi. The service was fantastic and employees were very friendly! They ensured our safety and asked us on several occasions if we had needed anything else before and after the experience. We ended up taking the two hour rental and enjoyed about 5 miles out on the water! We loved the views and definitely had to take some pictures to remember pieces of it. We will definitely be back again before the end of the summer!

    Ida H.

    I was introduced to this store by my boyfriend who wanted to spark some interest in me to do something fun with my life besides working and taking life too serious. When we went to Lodi Lake for the Paddle Fest a few Saturdays ago, we were able to enjoy some kayaking on the lake by trying out several varieties of kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and corresponding paddle styles. There was so much to choose from and we were given expert advise from the employees that were waiting on hand to assist visitors. After our afternoon of fun, we drove a short distance to where the Headwaters Kayak Shop was located. The store was jam packed with everything necessary for water fun including the appropriate sports attire! Kayaks were our main focus. They have many styles, colors and sizes to select from to match any individual's preference. Needless to say we found some favorites and put them on our wish list! Now, saving up for these purchases will be another serious goal I will have to strive for! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSQORPN_pls

    Rodeo self-rescue
    Donna M.

    I went on the 3 day kayaking immersion trip with Cameron this past weekend - it was fantastic! He is a gifted instructor with a deep love of the outdoors and wealth of knowledge and the ability to help you do things you think you can't do - like kayak self-rescue! I have always been a slow paddler and have taken some lessons to no avail - Cameron taught me how to paddle properly so I was able to keep up with the other 2 people in the class and him in our final paddle in the Delta where we put it all together - in fact we all paddled so fast we came in 2 hours earlier than other groups he led. I can't recommend the 3 day skills class enough - I'd give it 10 stars if I could - a worthy investment for any kayaker - beginning or experienced!

    Crescent Ultralight in Aqua!!
    Ashley E.

    After wanting a kayak for years and my boyfriend lucking into one from a buddy, I have been on the hunt for the perfect kayak for me for around a month or so. I wanted a lighter sit on top kayak that I could load and unload by myself, that I could take our small dog out on, fish from it and also use it for work - it's a long list of wants for not wanting to spend an exorbitant amount of money on . We had heard of Headwater Kayaks, but hadn't been into the shop yet. Then we ran into them at the outdoor expo! Josh immediately told me to check out the Crescent Ultralight, which is perfect for smaller adults (I'm 5'1") or big kids and the price point is fantastic! I went home kept researching and looking at other kayaks and just couldn't beat the price and weight of the Crescent, which also meets all my wants! Today I went in and I have to say it was an amazing buying experience! I mentioned to Josh that he's who inspired me about the Crescent Ultralight and I'd love to get all geared up with a paddle as well as a PFD. Josh and everyone there was incredibly patient and knowledgeable! I probably tried on 10-13 different PFDs, short torso making it a more difficult fit, and Josh just kept making suggestions, highlighting the positives and negatives of each PFD until I finally found the right one. Since I was buying the kayak, paddle and PFD he gave me a great deal, helped me load up all my new treasures and off I went! Love supporting small local businesses and I love it even more when they have amazing customer service and people working there! Thanks guys! I will definitely be back!

    Me & hubby enjoying Lodi Lake.
    Cassandra D.

    Great place to rent kayaks. Abigail was very helpful and personable. The two young men gave great instructions since this was our first time; and they were thorough in disinfecting the kayaks and oars upon each return.

    You might have to zoom in but they are out there!

    The Kids Kayak Camp was an excellent experience for a first time kayaker! I dropped off one quiet nervous 9 year old girl and picked up an excited happy little kayak camper! She told me her teacher helped her with some towing when she needed it and gave her good pointers. The kids also got to stop and take in some fun nature. The staff helping me get signed up we're very nice and let me know about other interesting options. This was a really good deal and great day camp! (-: Thanks everyone!

    Wade W.

    Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Buy your kayak and gear here. You won't be sorry. :-)

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    3 years ago

    Rented paddle boards from here twice. Super fun! Loved it. Staff were friendly, excited to go again

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    6 years ago

    Friendly efficient service, and great prices! The whole family loves going kayaking and stand up paddle boarding!

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    Dan, owner of Headwaters Kayak, was a great help as I sifted through all the information about kayaks and canoes.

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    All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting

    All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting

    4.8
    (270 reviews)
    43.8 mi

    We've rafted twice more with All-Outdoors since my last review - Goodwin Canyon in October 2022,…read moreand then Middle Fork American River again this past month (both 1-day trips). The last time we rafted Middle Fork American was on a cold, gloomy, drizzling day in October 2019 - so we had to give it another go in warmer weather. This time around was just as memorable. Two of us in the boat ended up falling out in the water at Tunnel Chute, which happened so fast that I barely knew what had happened - thankfully, there was a nice calmer stretch of water right after through the river tunnel, so we were easily able to get back into the raft. (Thank you to our guide, Troy, for hauling me back in, and for being an awesome guide in general!) Plus this was one of the photographer spots, so the action was all captured for us to laugh about later. Later, after our tasty sandwich picnic lunch, we had a few unexpected events happen, starting from the portage down Ruck-a-Chucky Falls. Shout-out to all three guides in our group - Troy, Shea, and AJ - for handling things so calmly and getting us all back where we were supposed to be! We had plenty of calm stretches floating down the river as well. The canyon is beautiful and quite peaceful. We saw a ton of dragonflies flying above our heads, masked ducks chilling on rocks and diving underwater, and wild grapes and blackberries growing alongside the river. We'll be back again for another trip with All-Outdoors! Maybe we'll try a 2-day or 3-day trip next time.

    This rafting company is the best! We did the South Fork of the American River and had a blast. I…read morehighly recommend this trip and company. Ask for Markus to be your guide. You won't be disappointed.

    Photos
    Rafting on the North Fork of the American River
    Rafting on the North Fork of the American River
    Huge shout out to our guides Kent and Rowan!   My group had a blast.   Food was amazing.
    Huge shout out to our guides Kent and Rowan! My group had a blast. Food was amazing.
    All-Outdoors California Whitewater Rafting

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    Whitewater Adventures

    Whitewater Adventures

    4.5
    (319 reviews)
    31.8 mi

    I had an amazing time with Whitewater Adventures. This was honestly one of the most fun and…read morememorable group trips I've done. I went with a group of 10, last July, and it ended up being such a chaotic (in the best way) and bonding experience. We still talk about it to this day. They also offer a group discount, which is worth looking into and made it feel like a really good value for everything included. All of us were first-timers, so we were definitely a little nervous going in, but the staff made it feel really welcoming right away. They gave a quick crash course/overview on how to navigate the water and what to expect, which helped ease a lot of the nerves. I'd say it's very beginner-friendly, just keep in mind it is a Class 2-3 course, so there are still some rocky and more exciting sections. The rafting is self-guided, so there's no guide on your raft, but there is a sweeper raft at the end making sure everyone gets through safely. There was also one section where the rapids got pretty wild, and staff were there helping anyone who got stuck, which I appreciated. Overall, everything felt organized and ran smoothly. We did the 2-day experience, and I'd recommend it if you're comfortable with camping. The overnight stay is outdoors, so just something to keep in mind if you're not used to that. The campsite had a really social vibe with a happy hour, group activities, and just people hanging out, which made it even more fun. The food was honestly better than I expected. We had steak and baked potatoes for dinner, and a breakfast burrito station in the morning. During the rafting, there were also a lot of scenic spots along the way where you could rest and take everything in. I remember passing by what used to be a volcanic site, which was really cool to see. Each raft comes with a waterproof bag for your belongings and lunch, but I'd recommend bringing extra snacks, water or electrolytes, sunscreen, and good water shoes. Overall, I'd definitely recommend this for friend groups, especially if it's your first time rafting. It's a great mix of fun, a little bit of challenge, and just a really unique experience. My friends and I are already planning to go again this year.

    Whitewater Adventures provided a fun experience for us! This was my first time whitewater rafting…read moreand the staff did a great job in providing a memorable time for us. They did an amazing job in showing us the basics and were helpful in times when we needed help. Along with that, I love how they provided food and activities to do afterwards. I would go again and would recommend it!

    Photos
    Getting started
    Getting started
    One of the rest points
    One of the rest points
    Whitewater Adventures

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    H2O Excursions

    H2O Excursions

    5.0
    (25 reviews)
    10.9 mi

    Made a reservation for 4th of July and had a blast. Called prior and Ashley was amazing answering…read moreall my questions. When we arrived we were greeted by Vernon who was also great. I think regardless where you go renting a jet-ski will always be pricy just because of all the rules on the water itself. For an hour with the lowest insurance and gas we spent $170. But like I mentioned we had a blast. It was fun cruising on the delta. This is definitely a hidden gem in Stockton. They also have boat rentals and a boat with a captain for large parties which seemed very affordable for large parties. I can't wait to go back.

    Although I live in Stockton, close to the marina, I have never really explored the water in the…read morearea by boat. I spoke with the rental people in person a couple of times to find out "the detail"... And this morning took my eight-year-old granddaughter out for an hour on a tandem kayak. it was a perfect activity for grandpa, relaxing for us both, enjoying nature and gentle easy conversation ensued. The pricing of rentals, is competitive, or even lower than some of the other facilities in Lodi and other places etc. what helped me make the decision about renting here, was the fabulous customer service from both Vern and Shawn. friendly, detailed, helpful... Everything is kept immaculate, they are doing a fabulous job at representing this business! $30 well spent! Memories are priceless!

    Photos
    Jet Skiing on the Delta courtesy of H20 Excursions
    Jet Skiing on the Delta courtesy of H20 Excursions
    H2O Excursions
    H2O Excursions

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    Lodi Paddlesports Center

    Lodi Paddlesports Center

    5.0
    (8 reviews)
    2.3 mi

    There friendly advice, there professional advice, and most importantly, the care of there product ,…read moreand how they speak too you with understanding on what you want. I recommend them for at ease purchase. I do NOT recommend a place were I get a feeling of unwelcome counter action with clients or purchaser. Yes I'm just gonna say it, kayak city. Yes you may have a lot too offer, but lodi paddlesports center has a vary welcoming personality inviting I can say. That's what sold me. They are ere on it, from the start, and were there were there every step of the way. And for that each and everyone one of them were attentive with any concerns I had. And there for you've earned my business, and will be sending all my fishing buddies too you Tom. Thank you all for making my purchase very easy. JIM Munoz.

    Long over due but just want to say for us Central Valley folk we really don't have any options for…read morekayaks. This was the closest place and to be honest will probably be the only place I go. This shop is not full of salesman trying to get you to buy the latest and the greatest, they are trying to get you to buy what you want what you're comfortable with what you need. They are going to teach you and share amazing knowledge with you without ever having the fear of needing to feel like you're going to have to buy it. I ended up with the native titan x 10.5 and loving every second of it. Thank you Lodi paddlesports for being so welcoming and trustworthy and serving your community and the people of the sport

    Photos
    Paddle sports Center

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    Paddle sports Center
    California Cavern State Historic Landmark

    California Cavern State Historic Landmark

    4.6
    (97 reviews)
    42.9 mi

    The drive here is much more involved than Mercer Caverns with more windy and narrow roads. Once you…read moreget closer the space opens up to a large parking lot and shop you meet at. We were the only ones that signed up for the earliest tour that day and were lucky to have a private tour. The tour has informative history about the caverns with landmarks along the way. The most interesting thing we didn't know about is they have caving adventure tours where you shimny through holes and narrow spaces with a guide but our kids aren't old enough to partake. This was the first show cave in California and townspeople lived in them during harsh winters in the 1800s. There was a bar inside and a church and nails were even given to people to carve on the walls. Because of this there are signs of harm everywhere with soot, broken formations, and dirty coloration from human hand oils and even champagne poured on a rock formation. The caverns are huge and beautiful with some jaw-dropoing rooms. The walking tour is very safe though we loved the slight danger and claustrophobic feel of the Mercer Caverns. When you leave the shop has some cool historical items pulled from the caves on display like glass bottles, etc .. that are worth checking out.

    What a cool experience. Got there for the 10:00 am tour, and I was the only guest. The walk to…read morethe cave is only about five minutes, but there's no shade so the earlier the better as the temps heat up. Inside the cave is about 50°. I have no issues with claustrophobia, but if you do there is one tight squeeze that might be a problem. Cash, my tour guide, turned off the lights (after asking my permission) and we experienced total darkness for maybe thirty seconds. It felt like two hours, and I hated it , but still neat and recommend trying if offered. Use the hand rails. They are there for your safety.

    Photos
    Toward the exit, some parts are a bit wet
    Toward the exit, some parts are a bit wet
    Stairs and path wind through amazing formations. People used to live in these caves in the 1800s!
    Stairs and path wind through amazing formations. People used to live in these caves in the 1800s!
    California Cavern State Historic Landmark

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    Mother Lode River Center

    Mother Lode River Center

    4.8
    (170 reviews)
    50.8 mi

    We booked a rafting trip with Mother Lode River Center in June of 2024. None of us had ever done…read moremuch more than easy trips on calm water, so it was a pretty new experience for us. Our guides were Erin and Lauren. We had an absolute blast; it was the most fun I've had in years. My sister-in-law was visiting from the UK and she said it was the highlight of her trip. Yes, the rapids are fast and wild and yes, there's a possibility you might fall out of the boat. If you're not a big adrenaline junkie or you're older and this worries you, don't let that keep you from doing this. I'm also not a big adrenaline junkie. Three of us on the raft were over 50. We all had a fantastic time. I never felt like I was in danger and I was never scared. The guides are great at showing you what to do, easing your fears, keeping you safe, and making sure you have a good time. Highly recommended experience, especially if you have a visitor and you want them to experience the best of Northern CA recreation!

    I decided I wanted to take the kids I nanny (11 & 13) to do something fun and unique and thought…read morewhy not finally cross off whitewater rafting from my bucket list?! We were gifted a beautiful day on the river with multiple sightings of wildlife including fish jumping, ducklings, geese, and even a bald eagle! The best part was getting to see the kids do something, get scared, have a blast doing it, and then ask to come back for more intensity next time. I really appreciated the guides for their hospitality, humor, and kindness. However my main piece of feedback would be a friendly reminder that nature and outdoor recreational activities are a form of escape and respite from our every day life, so being more mindful of the topics of conversation brought up during the ride is very important to the atmosphere.

    Photos
    Mother Lode River Center
    Mother Lode River Center
    Mother Lode River Center

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    Headwaters Kayak Shop - rafting - Updated June 2026

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