Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
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Canoe & Kayak Program

New 2010 Summer Programs starting next June
*
Area closed during winter for sensitive migratory birds*


*Summer 2009; Past Season's Information*

Looking for a new place this summer to paddle with friends and enjoy wildlife right in your own backyard? Welcome to Stone Lakes NWR's new Canoe & Kayak program!

The Canoe & Kayak program is on a historically dredged area of Lower Beach Lake and offers the public the opportunity for wildlife observation and guided interpretation paddles.  This free program will run from June through August, Thursday through Sunday, and offer a unique opportunity for water enthusiasts to enjoy previously closed areas within a 10 minute drive from downtown Sacramento. Experience local wildlife up-close such as river otters, egrets, herons, hawks, pelicans, beavers and pond turtles while learning about Central Valley habitat and on-going restoration projects.  The program is open to all individuals/groups and they must provide their own non-motorized boats (i.e. canoe & kayak), paddles & life vests. *Some kayaks may be available for public use; call for availability.

Kayakers on slough

Below is a list of currently scheduled paddles and availability. If you have a group and would like to arrange a special trip please email Paddle Reservation or call (916) 775-4830.


Prepare for Your Trip!

When: June, July & August
Paddle Location:
Stone Lakes NWR SP Cut Slough, a 2-mile historic dredged area of Lower Beach Lake; see Directions below.
Dates:
Thursday - Sunday, times variable (see schedule below) - or call to arrange a group paddle trip.
Cost: Free!
To Make Special Group Reservations: please email: Paddle Reservation or call (916) 775-4830 and leave a detailed message with your name, phone number, paddle date and how many people in your group. A program guide will return your message within a week. Limit of 20 boats per outting.
What to Bring: Bring a canoe or kayak, paddle, life vest (all children MUST wear life vests!), water, suncreen, hat, snacks/lunch, and any other personal comfort items you may need. Some kayaks may be available for public use; call for availability.
What NOT to Bring: Sorry, but alcohol, dogs, fishing gear, motors, radios and remote controlled devices must stay at home.


Directions:

All scheduled trips meet at the Elk Grove Blvd gate directly off Interstate 5 (take the Elk Grove Blvd exit and turn west; the guides will meet you at the red & white striped gate). Remember, be prompt for all scheduled paddle times as the group will go through a gate that gets locked. Best to arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Scheduled Paddle Trips
Date Meeting Time Duration
June 11 - 14
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
June 18 - 21
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
June 25 - 28
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
July 2 - 5
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
July 9 - 12
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
July 16 - 19
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
July 23 - 26
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
July 30 - Aug 2
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
Aug 6 - 9
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
Aug 13 - 16
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours
Aug 20 - 23
9:00 a.m.
3 Hours

Last updated: September 11, 2009