Watercraft Rentals and Guided Tours at Lodi Lake

Lodi Lake serves as the centerpiece for aquatic exploration in Lodi, California, offering a spectrum of watercraft rental options and professionally guided tours that cater to newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike. The premier provider in this domain is the Lodi Boathouse, a women-owned establishment that not only rents high-quality kayaks and stand-up paddleboards but also orchestrates immersive tours to showcase the lake’s natural beauty. Whether embarking on a serene solo paddle or joining a themed group excursion, visitors can expect expert guidance, well-maintained equipment, and a memorable experience on the tranquil waters of Lodi Lake.

The Lodi Boathouse Kayak & SUP Rentals operation stands at 1101 West Turner Road and features an array of top-tier watercraft from brands such as Stellar, Mocean, Eddyline, and Hurricane. This facility offers single and tandem kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and pedal boats, accommodating both novices seeking a gentle introduction to paddling and experts aiming for longer excursions. Wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, and seating ensure that guests of varying abilities can enjoy the full paddling experience.

The Lodi Boathouse’s rental model is designed for flexibility, with hourly and half-hourly rates that allow paddlers to tailor their outing based on skill level, time constraints, and personal preference. With a 4.9-star rating from over 1,500 reviews, the operation’s commitment to safety, cleanliness, and customer satisfaction has positioned it as the leading choice for aquatic recreation at Lodi Lake.

Guided Adventure Tours Provided by Lodi Boathouse

Beyond simple equipment rental, the Lodi Boathouse elevates the paddling experience through a series of themed guided tours designed to immerse participants in the changing moods of Lodi Lake. The “Sunset Tour” invites paddlers to witness the sky transform into a canvas of vivid hues as the sun dips below the horizon. Under the glow of night, the “Full Moon Tour” creates a serene atmosphere where the silhouettes of waterfowl glide across the shimmering surface.

For those seeking personalized attention, private tours can be arranged for families, friends, or special occasions, with a dedicated guide charting a course that highlights hidden coves and wildlife-rich stretches. The “Nature Tour” focuses on ecological observation, offering opportunities to spot herons, egrets, and river otters along the Mokelumne River’s edge. Community Paddles further foster social connection, bringing together individuals of all ages and abilities for a shared journey on the water .

Lessons and Instruction at Lodi Lake

Recognizing that confidence on the water begins with proper technique, the Lodi Boathouse also provides structured lessons for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. In a 1.5-hour introductory session, participants master essential strokes, safety protocols, and basic rescue skills, laying a strong foundation for future independent paddling. For those interested in advanced training, a two-hour “Rescue & Towing Skills” lesson offers hands-on practice in self-rescue, assisted towing, and emergency response scenarios.

Specialty classes are available upon request for groups of five or more, as well as custom scheduling to accommodate unique needs. The Boathouse has extended invitations to local youth organizations, including Girl Scouts, to introduce kayaking through engaging on-land and on-water activities that emphasize safety, stewardship, and fun .

Mokelumne River Tours Departing from Lodi Lake

While Lodi Boathouse facilitates guided excursions within the confines of the lake, broader river journeys are offered by the Mokelumne River Tours program, which operates from April through October. Participants embark on 90-minute boat journeys that travel nearly five miles of the Mokelumne River corridor, where winding channels, riparian habitats, and seasonal bird migrations provide an ever-changing backdrop. The tours accommodate up to ten passengers on larger vessels and six on smaller crafts, with private charters and mini-trips available on weekends .

These river tours emphasize both relaxation and discovery, as guides share insights on the local ecosystem and regional history. Guests are encouraged to bring their own refreshments aboard, creating a picnic-like atmosphere while drifting past vineyards, river otter dens, and stands of willows that line the banks.

Park-Operated Rentals at Lodi Lake Park

Complementing commercial services, Lodi Lake Park itself offers boat rentals through its on-site boathouse. From April through October, visitors may rent paddle boats, single-person kayaks, and tandem kayaks at a rate of $5 per half hour. These park-operated rentals are available weekends during spring and fall, and Wednesday through Sunday in the peak summer months, providing an accessible option for spontaneous lake visits.

In addition to watercraft rentals, Lodi Lake Park boasts a sandy beach, a spray pool for young children, and shaded picnic areas. Nature docents lead educational programs focused on river ecology and local wildlife, ensuring that visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the conservation efforts that sustain Lodi Lake and its surroundings.

Sources

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[2] Lodi Lake Park | Visit Stockton https://www.visitstockton.org/directory/lodi-lake-park/

[3] Tower Park Marina https://towerpark-marina.com

[4] Mokelumne River Tours | Visit Lodi, California https://visitlodi.com/things-to-do/mokelumne-river-tours/

[5] Kayaking on Lake Lodi and Mokelumne River with Headwater Kayaks https://californiathroughmylens.com/kayaking-on-lake-lodi-mokelumne-river/

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