Lake Clementine felt more like a river without a current at the upper parking lot. It was beautifully crystal clear, calm and narrow. It is, after all, just a flooded portion of the American River. We paddled for a few hours. First up, then down stream to the boat-in camping area. No rush, just a nice casual day on the water together.

I especially enjoyed looking into the deep pools and seeing very large fish swimming below.

By the time we were back at the parking area, a dark cumulonimbus sent us scurrying to tie the boards on my car and get inside.

We’ll be back.