Modesto, CA - Nov 2006

On our way heading south through California, we decided to stop near Modesto to visit some friends. We had a heck of a time locating a public campground in the area, but then, while internet surfing one day, I virtually stumbled upon the San Joaquin County Parks -- including the cute little campground called Dos Reis Regional Park in the tiny town of Lathrop -- about 15 miles south of Stockton. It was very small -- only 24 sites, but laid out nicely with green grass, paved patios, large trees and located right next to the San Joaquin River. It seemed like it was way out in the country, but was only about two miles off Interstate 5. With a goat farm on one side and a squash farm on the other, it really did feel like we were out in the boonies.

The park backed up to the San Joaquin River, but there was a tall levee between the park and the river, so we couldn't see it from our site. Luckily, there was a staircase in the park and we just had to walk up it to get to the top of the levee and a nice view. There was a trail all along the river and each day we got our exercise walking up and down the riverbank. The park had a public boat ramp and river access and every morning and night there were a handful of hopeful fishermen trying their luck.

We only stayed here four nights, but enjoyed our visit with a couple of friends whom we hadn't seen in several years. Thanks again to all of you for the good conversations and for re-kindling old friendships. Thanks Gay for fixing our favorite dish of yours -- yummy carbonara. And thanks Katharine and Gary for a delightful night on the town. We were even blessed with a pretty sunset one evening -- looking across the San Joaquin River.