Tracy, CA Outdoor Activities

The founders of Adventure Connection believe in magic. Not the trickery of the stage or spells cast by mysterious neighbors, but of the spiritual, environmental, and economic boons of the rivers they have spent their lives traversing. More than 25 years ago, a group of believers came together to share their love and passion for the rivers of California, building a company that combines whitewater rafting, wine tasting, and camping along the waterways they love.

Over the course of the last two decades, the staff has guided boats of up to 18 people through the rapids of the American, Kaweah, and Tuolumne Rivers, coasting through mild ripples or white-knuckling class V rapids. Groups often leave the rafts behind to explore the scenic countryside and renowned wineries of the surrounding El Dorado region or to pitch tents and sleep under the stars.

The Headwaters owners Dan and Ashlie Arbuckle strive to make aquatic exploration accessible by providing patrons with high-quality equipment, as well as moral support from their canine companion, Henna. The shop rents paddleboards and kayaks to paddlers intent on exploring the Mokelumne River, whose waters glitter less than 1 mile away, and also organizes guided trips, exhibitions, and private or small group classes for newbies. In addition, fishing kayak packages rent out rod holders, fish finders, and scripts for tall tales about "the one that got away."

The Stockton Ports have been a part of California baseball since before there was even a league. Players have been slinging pitches, swinging bats, and attempting to translate umpires' calls in the town of Stockton for more than a century. But it wasn't until 1941— when Minor League Baseball decided to plant roots in California—that the Ports became an official organization. The Ports jumped at the chance to join up, becoming one of the founding members of the newly created California League. Over the course of the team’s 63-year history, the Ports have won 11 championships, including one in 2008, all while advancing players such as Gary Sheffield, Ben Sheets, and Trevor Cahill to the big leagues.

Banner Island Ballpark

Looming on the waterfront of the California Delta, Banner Island Ballpark was built in 2005 and accommodates up to 5,200 Ports fans during each home game. Special promotions fill the mitts of visitors with freebies and discounts almost on a nightly basis, including $2 beers and sodas on Thursdays and a jersey giveaway on August 31. Rather than driving or trying to squeeze the whole family into the same wiffle ball, fans also have the option of cruising to a game on their boat, docking for $10 at the Stockton Downtown Arena.