Sacramento RiverThe Sacramento River, California's longest contained river, originates high in the Shasta National Forest. The river gathers mountain runoff from the Sierras as it meanders 447 miles south through California's Central Valley. With over 27 billion cubic meters of annual runoff, the Sacramento River supports much of California's agricultural economy. The Sacramento joins the San Joaquin and American Rivers, eventually emptying into Suisun Bay.This river is an essential source of recreation, fish migration and California water resources.
San Joaquin RiverAt 330 miles in length, the San Joaquin River is the second longest within California. The river gathers its bulk from eight major tributaries, flowing through California's San Joaquin Valley. Its headwaters originate high in the Sierra Nevadas and culminate in conjoining with the Sacramento River, creating the San Joaquin Delta. Once the site of California's southernmost Chinook salmon run, the San Joaquin River now supports various forms of recreation and city resources.
Klamath RiverThe Klamath River flows 263 miles through northern California before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Originating in southern Oregon, the Klamath River moves through the volcanic Cascades and Klamath National Forest. The lower basin remains wild in comparison to the upper, providing good habitats for migratory birds and fish. The Klamath is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and fishing.
San Joaquin RiverAt 330 miles in length, the San Joaquin River is the second longest within California. The river gathers its bulk from eight major tributaries, flowing through California's San Joaquin Valley. Its headwaters originate high in the Sierra Nevadas and culminate in conjoining with the Sacramento River, creating the San Joaquin Delta. Once the site of California's southernmost Chinook salmon run, the San Joaquin River now supports various forms of recreation and city resources.
Klamath RiverThe Klamath River flows 263 miles through northern California before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Originating in southern Oregon, the Klamath River moves through the volcanic Cascades and Klamath National Forest. The lower basin remains wild in comparison to the upper, providing good habitats for migratory birds and fish. The Klamath is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and fishing.