Disappointment Slough is a tidal waterway within California's Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, characterized by a network of narrow channels and passages winding through tule islands. A primary access point for paddlers is Paradise Point Marina on Rio Blanco Road, which offers a launch directly onto the slough with the benefit of a 5 mph no-wake zone within the marina. Another, more rustic launch is an unnamed site on Empire Tract at 15180 W Eight Mile Road, an old, partially collapsed shipping dock that can be very slick at low tide; parking and launch here are free. The tidal influence is significant, with a typical range of approximately 4.7 feet at the nearby Bishop Cut. Paddlers must plan for strong currents, particularly where the slough meets the Stockton Deep Water Channel; one account describes a fast-moving current opposing travel. The area is exposed to wind, which can create challenging conditions, especially at the more rustic launch sites.

The paddling experience is one of quiet exploration through flooded islands and hidden passages. A notable route involves paddling around the private Tinsley Island, owned by the Saint Francis Yacht Club, and exploring the adjacent Fern Island, which is flooded internally, allowing paddlers to navigate among the trees. This area leads to Headreach and Tule Islands, featuring many narrow entrances to secluded waterways. Caution is required as submerged hazards like fence posts are present. The scenery includes lush vegetation, elegant yachts at private docks, and historic vessels like the restored tugboat Brave Duck near the Delta Yacht Club. Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of white pelicans, coots, herons, egrets, osprey, and geese with goslings.

A major navigational consideration is the intersection with the active Stockton Deep Water Channel, where large commercial ships pass; crossing this channel requires caution and awareness of vessel traffic. The overall environment is a mix of serene, narrow sloughs and busier, open channels. The best times to paddle are during the early morning or evening to avoid afternoon winds and for optimal lighting, with tides being a critical factor for both current strength and access at some launch points.