canoe camping trips tennessee

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Canoeing Trips in Tennessee

With over 60,000 miles of river in the state, you just found a lifetime's worth of paddling in Tennessee! Check out all canoeing trips in Tennessee for every level of canoeist. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, canoe rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a canoe trip in Tennessee for you! If you've paddled Tennessee before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

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Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket

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Trip Category

• Canoeing in Arkansas
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Guide to Canoeing in Tennessee

Tennessee is packed with great options for any level of canoeist. The majority of the waterways are accessible rivers without extreme whitewater to navigate. Here are a a few popular paddling destinations in Tennessee:

• Cumberland River
• Ocoee River

Canoeing Locations in Tennessee

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in Tennessee! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Canoeing Trip in Tennessee

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled throughout Tennessee and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of Tennessee community trip reports below:

• Big South Fork of the Cumberland River
• Candies Creek
• Duck River in Tennessee

Connect with Paddlers in Tennessee

Are you looking to connect with other paddlers about going canoeing in Tennessee? Check out the Paddling.com Message Boards for resources to help you get started.

Pinewood Canoe & Camp

Where every day is a flippin' good time on the Piney!

Book Your Adventure

21 Aug 2021 Flooding

Parts of middle Tennessee including Hickman and Humphreys counties have experienced record level flooding. The river gauge on the Piney river at the Vernon bridge indicated a level of 31.8 feet well above the previous record of 20.08 feet.

Update 26 Aug 2021

We are going to restart river trips starting Friday 3 Sept 2021. There are a limited number of campsites available, Please call to inquire.

Update 29 Aug 2021

We are open for shuttle service. $10 access fee if you shuttle your own kayak. $20 fee if we shuttle you and your kayak.

We are busy clearing the road and cleaning up the campground. If you would like to help please call 931-729-1042 or email [email protected]

If you would like to donate to the cleanup and rebuild effort we have set up a square donation here. Donations

Pictures of the flooding and damage.

We are busy cleaning up the campground and river. If you would like to help please call 931-729-1042 or email [email protected]

If you would like to see pictures of the progress that have been made on the cleanup.

If you would like to donate to the cleanup and rebuild effort we have set up a square donation here.

If you would like to see pictures of the flooding and damage in Pinewood and the surrounding area.

If you would like to see pictures of the flooding and damage at the camp.

Many have came out and helped and we would like to thank them. If we have missed your name know we are thankful.

• Robert Chilton
• Sha Chilton
• Angela Clark
• Jeremy Clark
• Paul Collins
• Dennis Dotson
• Wally Greer
• Sam Huggins
• Ryan Manning
• Johnathon and Jeff Sullivan and the crew with Arbor Best Tree Care
• The Pinewood Canoe and Camp Family

Limited Hours Until April 1st

We are operating at limited hours until April 1st. Please call Phone: 931-729-1042 to ensure we will be open.

Flooding Photos

If you would like to see pictures of the flooding and damage in Pinewood and the surrounding area. Pictures

If you would like to see pictures of the flooding and damage at the camp. Pictures

• Pinewood Canoe & Camp LLC

Camping, Canoeing, Fishing, Kayaking, Swimming and many more outdoor activities on the picturesque Piney river at our beautiful campground. We have a wonderful deep cool blue swimming hole for kids of all ages.

Please check the water level for the Piney if it has been raining. If the gage height is above 5 ft we will not put people in the river. Any gage height above 4 ft the river is up and we ask that caution is used before accessing the river.

USGS Water Data for Piney River at Vernon, TN

Summer Boating

We are running out of Canoes and Kayaks most days. Please book your boats now to ensure we are not out when you arrive.

Book Canoes Now

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COVID-19 Rules for outdoors

• Do Your Part .... Stay 6 feet Apart.
• No Groups over 10 people.
• Do not come if you feel sick.

We love to float the river ourselves, so I can tell you how the river is flowing and what to expect on your trip. Piney has swimming holes well over your head, then around the bend will be rapids just deep enough to float. It changes with every flood, season or depth of water. Floating the river is interesting and a lot of fun to discover the new and challenging bends and rapids. There is an abundance of wildlife to be seen on the river banks and in its waters.

More Information Book Canoes Now Book Kayaks Now Book Shuttle Service Now -->

Camping is at our campground along the picturesque Piney river with gorgeous bluffs across and a wonderful cool swimming hole.

More Information

Fishing and Swimming

We have a large gravel bar area, so there is plenty of room for everyone.

If you would like to learn more about us please visit our About Us page.

View details »

If you would like to learn about the activities we offer please visit our Adventures page.

If you would like to see pictures of this beautiful river please visit our photos page.

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Release Forms

For your convenience and to save time please fill out, sign,and bring the appropriate release form with you.

For quick overview see our flyer.

If you would like to learn more about the campground please visit our stories page.

• 2011 Cash Hollow Road
• Nunnelly, TN 37137
• Be aware that routes suggested by navigation are sometimes questionable. Use of Hwy 48 to Cash Hallow Road is suggested.
• Phone: 931-729-1042
• [email protected]

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Destinations Travel

3 scenic tennessee rivers to canoe this summer.

The Clinch River in East Tennessee offers a bucolic river experience. Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

Rivers feature prominently in Tennessee’s picturesque landscapes and in its economy. Besides carrying commercial barges, generating hydroelectricity and irrigating farms, rivers also attract thousands of tourists each year. Outdoor adventurers certainly enjoy the Cumberland, Mississippi and Tennessee rivers, which curve past the state’s four largest cities. But many canoers and other paddlers prefer waterways away from populated areas and closer to our native species of trees and wildlife. Here are three rural rivers worth canoeing in Tennessee.

Clinch River

Eleven miles after leaving Virginia, the Clinch River reaches Kyles Ford, a remote community in Hancock County. This stretch of river is home to a biologically rich ecosystem, including what may be the world’s most diverse population of threatened freshwater mussels. The Nature Conservancy, which established an 850-acre preserve here, named the Clinch as one of its “Last Great Places.”

Lindy Turner is executive director of the Clinch-Powell Resource Conservation and Development Council . The organization’s nonprofit, River Place on the Clinch , supports the area’s struggling economy through jobs and ecotourism. River Place includes a cafe, a market, a campground, rental cabins, and an outfitter that rents canoes and other paddling equipment.

Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

“You can put in at River Place, and we have take-outs 5 miles and 13 miles downriver,” Turner says. “Or we can shuttle you to one of our put-ins at 2 miles, 4 miles, 7 miles or 13 miles upriver. Somebody who really wants a canoe experience might choose the 7-mile trip. Depending on how the river is flowing, that’s probably four or five hours. The 13-mile trip is more of an all-day experience, because generally people pull off and eat.”

See more:  Why East Tennessee Lakes and Rivers Are Perfect for Fly Fishing

Located 60 miles upriver of Norris Dam, this section of the Clinch is free-flowing, so rainfall affects its level.

“It’s not a fast-moving river,” Turner says. “There’s no whitewater rafting here. But the Clinch is a good place to enjoy nature, stop and swim, maybe fish, watch for otters and bald eagles. There aren’t many houses along the river. It’s very bucolic.”

The Buffalo River spans 120 miles in Middle Tennessee, with many launching their canoes and kayaks at put-ins near Waynesboro. Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

Buffalo River

Middle Tennessee’s longest undammed river, the Buffalo, is also dependent on rainfall as it meanders for 120 miles between Lawrence and Humphrey counties. On the way, it passes Waynesboro, where Bobby Jones has operated the Crazy Horse Recreational Park for three decades.

“We’re located right on the Buffalo River,” Jones says. “Here in Wayne County, we’re 100 miles south of Nashville, on the western edge of the Highland Rim, which gives us lots of hills and valleys. The river is spring-fed, so the water is clear – good and clean.” Floating the Buffalo is an ideal way to appreciate local wildlife, including some of the 85 fish species that live in this water.

See more:  Why a World-Champion Kayaker Chose Rural Tennessee for His Kayak Business

In addition to offering campground and lodging options, Crazy Horse can outfit you with a canoe or kayak, and shuttle you one way as needed. “You’ll either put in right here and we’ll bring you back, or we’ll carry you upriver and you’ll get out here,” Jones says. Safety is a company priority, from providing life vests and clearing obstructions in the water to ensuring that everyone is accounted for before dark.

The popular 10-mile trip starts at Crazy Horse and takes you past a waterfall, cave, bluffs and a rope swing. But for families and church groups, Jones recommends the 8-mile option. “We carry you upriver in the morning, and when you get out you’re right here at your vehicle,” he says. “It’s an affordable trip where you and the wife and kids can go out, spend a day in a family atmosphere and not break the bank.”

The Hatchie River in West Tennessee features cypress and tupelo trees, unlike rivers further east. Photo credit: Nathan Lambrecht

Hatchie River

While segments of the Buffalo and Clinch are part of the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Program , the 238-mile Hatchie River is the only full-length scenic river in the state.

Jason Miller, natural areas program manager for Tennessee’s Division of Natural Areas , points out some of the Hatchie’s unique features.

“As the state’s westernmost scenic river, it differs quite a lot from what you might see in high elevation East Tennessee or even something in Middle Tennessee like the Harpeth or the Duck,” he says. “You’re talking West Tennessee coastal plain, flooded bottomland forest, cypress and tupelo trees, all sorts of waterfowl and a lot of slack water and flat water that’s really good for canoe paddling.”

The Hatchie traverses two wildlife management areas and supports a large number of mussels and fish, including one of the continent’s most diverse river catfish populations.

“I’ve paddled the Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge through a section of swamp tupelo forest there,” Miller says. “Paddling some of that flat water in West Tennessee is fascinating in terms of different landscapes and biological diversity.”

Pandemic Pastime

Back at Crazy Horse, Jones says that because of COVID-19, he added three buses in 2020 to help separate guests, and his crew sanitizes each vehicle between trips. But while the pandemic has hurt other types of tourism, Turner, Jones and Miller see more people canoeing than ever. It may be the perfect recreation for social distancing – and Tennessee’s rural rivers are just the ticket.

“I think you’d be hard-pressed to find a state that offers more paddling opportunities across the board than Tennessee does,” Miller says. “Whether you’re a novice boater or an experienced whitewater paddler, there’s an amazing abundance of natural resources available here.”

River Place on the Clinch

2788 Hwy. 70, Kyles Ford, TN 37765

Hours: Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday to Saturday 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

clinchriverecotourism.com

Crazy Horse Recreational Park

2505 Waynesboro Hwy., Waynesboro, TN 38485

Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday to Sunday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

crazyhorsecanoe.com/index.html

Lower Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge

234 Fort Prudhomme Dr., Henning, TN 38041

fws.gov/refuge/Lower_Hatchie

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Great information. Would like to know where Scott Hill Tennessee is?

Have you ever considered the impact of increased tourism on the rural rivers of Tennessee, and how can we ensure that these natural spaces remain pristine for future generations to enjoy?

This is a great idea, and we’ll definitely consider a story on how to combine rural tourism with the ethos of leave no trace. Thanks for your comment!

Jessy Yancey, managing editor

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Welcome! Ready to get away? Come & see us! (615) 696-2768

History of Red River Canoe

Red River Canoe Rentals has been in operation since 1985.  We pride ourselves on being a family-owned business that has been providing exciting river rides to novice and experienced paddlers for over 30 years.  There are many events and things to do in the Valley that will make your trip a truly memorable one.  

Located off of I-24, just 30 minutes from Nashville.  We are situated on 70+ breathtaking acres along the Red River in Adams, TN.   

Canoeing, Kayaking and Camping!

Float the Red River past the famous Bell Witch Cave. 

The river is considered a Class I and II.  Red River is a moderately shallow river with sandy beaches and rock bottom.  There are several small sandbars midway down the course, so bring your picnic basket for a day float or pack for an overnight trip on the river.  

We are great supporters of the Military, ask us about our Military discounts on canoes. We are also 7,352 mi from Kabul, Afghanistan.

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For faster service, please bring your license plate number with you when signing up. You may also click on button below, print and complete 1 group rental and 1 group liability form prior to your arrival.

Canoe the Red River

8002 Hwy 41 N, Adams, Tennessee 37010, United States

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Looking for the best kayaking in Tennessee? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Tennessee. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Kayaking Spots in and near Tennessee

Twin Falls, Rock Island State Park

Climb Lake Nickajack

Canoe down the Duck River

Float The Scenic Ghost Section of the Wolf River

Kayak Seven Island Wildlife Refuge

Fort Dickerson Quarry Park

Explore Ocoee Whitewater Center

Mead's Quarry Park

Whitewater Raft the Middle Ocoee River

Port Royal State Historic Park

Paddle the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River

Whitewater Rafting the Pigeon River

Kayak at Wilbur dam

Kayak or SUP at Picken’s Bridge

Kayak or SUP the South Fork

Kayak Patrick Henry Reservoir

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14 Hidden Kayaking Spots to Explore in Tennessee

Paddle on Tennessee's waterways to experience historic small towns, mountain views and natural phenomena.

Kayaking in Tennessee is unmatched as the state's beautiful waterways bring you to mountain views, a bat cave and a tranquil day on the water. Bring your kayak or rent one from Tennessee outfitters to have a kayaking adventure. Check out these lakes and rivers you can kayak near Chattanooga, Nashville and more.

Kayaking Near Chattanooga

Parksville lake – ocoee polk county.

You can kayak the oldest lake in the Cherokee National Forest when you paddle Parksville Lake , making it one of the unique things to do near Chattanooga. Enjoy stunning mountain views on the 1,930-acre lake. There are several access points along the lake including the East Parksville Boat Launch (northeastern portion), Kings Slough Boat Launch (western portion) and Parksville Boat Launch (northeastern portion). Nearby Cherokee National Forest has more blueways perfect for kayaking, canoeing and whitewater rafting.

Nickajack Lake

Have a unique natural experience when you kayak on Nickajack Lake . Join Chattanooga outfitters on their Nickajack Bat Cave sunset kayak tour where you can encounter up to 100,000 endangered grey bats beginning their nightly hunt for insects. Tours run from March to October. Kayak 3 miles around Nickajack Lake to the cave entrance and watch the wildlife phenomenon at dusk.

Kayaking Near Knoxville

French broad river – knoxville.

Kayak one of the oldest rivers in the world, the French Broad River which stretches 228 miles and eventually merges with the Tennessee River east of Knoxville . The main location for access points is in Cocke County where you'll find river access points 4-5 miles apart for kayaks. In Knoxville, you can access points that are close to downtown. Have a 4-hour kayak adventure and be close to enough to the city to return to your hotel, freshen up and have a night on the town.

Hiwassee River Blueway - Delano

Explore 55 miles of the beautiful Hiwassee River in Southeast Tennessee which flows through the Cherokee National Forest and historic towns Delano , Charleston (one of the most significant Trail of Tears sites in the eastern U.S.), Calhoun and Reliance . You'll see gorgeous scenery and numerous cultural heritage sites like the Cherokee Removal Memorial Park . The Hiwassee River has three sections: the upper stretch has Class I and Cass II whitewater rapids with occasional Class III. The middle and lower sections are flatwater are perfect for beginner kayakers. There are numerous outfitters near the river that offer kayak rentals from Memorial Day to Labor Day each year.

Clinch River

Spend a day flat water kayaking on the Clinch River , perfect for beginners to navigate the Class I and Class II waters. You can see rolling pastures, wooded ridges, rock formations and wildlife. The river has a number of public access points with the popular points being Weir Dam Access, Miller’s Island, Peach Orchard and Songbird Canoe Access among others. Miller’s Island in particular has ample parking and a large “put in” area. For an all-day excursion, roughly six hours, take out at the Highway 61 Bridge.

Kayaking Near Bristol, TN/VA

Watauga lake.

Watauga Lake offers beautiful mountain views as you kayak its crisp waters. You can paddle to and from the small islands along the shorelines and if temperatures climb to high or if you want a rest, park your kayak and take a dip or sunbathe on the shore. 

Kayaking Near Nashville

Barren fork of the collins river - mcminnville.

A tributary of the Caney Fork, the Collins River is 67 miles long and makes for a great kayaking spot. In McMinnville , visit MAD MUSKY Water Sports Rentals for kayak rentals, shuttle services and river guided tours. If you have your own kayak, you can park, put in and arrange to be picked up elsewhere on the river when your trip is finished. The Barren Fork is over 23 miles long and eventually flows through McMinnville. You’ll float in the middle of what is naturally a dense hardwood forest and catch a glimpse of its wildly beautiful parts. It’s ideal if you want a smooth, steady current.

Caney Fork River – Silver Point

Caney Fork River runs for about 144 miles. Put your kayak in or our near downtown McMinnville to enjoy the shopping, restaurants and more of this charming town. If you want a guided experience, outfitters like Canoe the Caney offer kayak rentals and tours ranging from a few hours to all day. They even have a haunted canoe trip offered the end of September to the beginning of November. Your guide will share stories of lost graves, ghostly encounters, unexplained voices and eerie sounds.

The Duck River winds through Middle Tennessee and is one of the most scenic waterways in Tennessee. It’s also North America’s most diverse freshwater river for its abundant variety of freshwater life. Enjoy a 4-5-hour kayak trip beginning from Milltown Dam. It’s an easy five-mile paddle down the wide river. Take your time as you float, stopping for a picnic or sunbathing time. There are plenty of access points along the river so you can decide how long you want your kayaking adventure to last.

Buffalo River

Head to the Buffalo River , the longest unimpounded river in Middle Tennessee, for a great summer day on the water. Rent a kayak from one of the outfitters in nearby towns Lobelville , Waynesboro , Hurricane Mills and Linden . While floating, you may see some wildlife including deer, turtles, bald eagles, fish and reptiles, caves, springs, waterfalls, Civil War relics and more. You can even take a night kayaking adventure. The Commodore Hotel in Linden can help you plan your nighttime excursion.

Kayaking Near Memphis

Wolf river – la grange.

See stunning wetland views when you paddle the Ghost River section of the Wolf River . There are a number of outfitters who offer kayak rentals; and, Blues City Kayaks offers guided trips along The Wolf River. The Wolf River can be challenging as there can be a number of natural obstacles like dense shrubbery and fallen tree branches. For beginners, the Germantown Parkway to Walnut Grove Road is a 2-4-hour excursion with hardly any obstacles. Your paddle adventure will be filled with views of cool sunken cypress trees and the chance for some wildlife viewing.

Mississippi River – Memphis

Paddle the nation’s largest and most iconic river, the Mississippi , when you’re in Memphis . From the water, you can see Big River Crossing , the Pyramid , Memphis’ downtown skyline and the Hernando Desoto Bridge. Take a guided tour with Kayak Memphis where a professional paddler will guide you along to see all the sights. 

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge – Stanton

The Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is 11,556 acres and is a resting and feeding area for migratory birds and wintering waterfowl. You can see bottomland hardwood forests, swamps, streams, grassland, open water and shrub habitat. See a variety of wildlife when you kayak Oneal Lake.

Reelfoot Lake – Tiptonville

Tennessee’s only natural-made lake, Reelfoot Lake is a great kayak spot. You can get a single kayak rental for $8/hour and a tandem kayak for $11/hour at Reelfoot Lake State Park’s Camp store in the South Campground. The lake is a flooded forest and is a unique place to kayak for its submerged stumps and standing trees. You may see some wildlife including American bald eagles, white pelicans and more.

Explore more kayaking in Tennessee and other outdoor adventures by visiting the Outdoor Adventure experience page .

Places in this article

Parksville Lake / Lake Ocoee

Hiwassee River Wildlife Refuge

Trout caught on the Clinch River

Watauga Lake - Carter and Johnson Counties

Caney Fork River

Canoe the Caney

Just a short drive east of Nashville, west of Knoxville and north of Chattanooga, you’ll find a Tennessee treasure that is the Caney Fork River, a class 1 river, and home to Canoe the Caney.

Duck River Bottomland

Commodore Hotel Linden

Conveniently located between Nashville and Memphis, The Commodore Hotel and Cafe, blends historic charm with modern comfort.

Mississippi River

Reelfoot Lake

Reelfoot Lake Natural Wildlife Area--See What Nature Made

Secret Waterfalls in Tennessee

Little to no crowds. Places of instant respite. Explore these off-the-beaten-path Tennessee waterfalls.

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Reconnect with Nature while Kayaking and Canoeing on the Duck River

Duck Canoe offers canoeing and kayaking on the Duck River in the Middle Tennessee area near Murfreesboro and Nashville. Our 5-mile float begins at Milltown Dam and continues until you reach Howlin’ Hill. Floating with us is not just a fun day out on the river … it’s an experience. We think about your experience from the time you walk through our doors until we deliver you back to your cars, and always want our customers to walk away with memories for a lifetime.

We all live busy lives where we are rushing from one obligation to another, or repeatedly checking our smart phone for the latest e-mail. We all need to take some time to just get away and reconnect with nature. So why not take that first step today, and book your reservations with Duck Canoe?

Diverse Wildlife on the Duck River

The Duck River is one of the state’s most scenic rivers, but beyond that, the Duck contains one of the most diverse populations of freshwater animals in the world, including 151 species of fish, 60 freshwater mussel species, and 22 species of aquatic snails. Other wildlife includes river otters, beavers, mink, hawks, and herons.

Kayaks $35 ALL DAY New 20′ Pontoons $320 for 6 hr. 18′ Lund Fishing Boat $175 for 6 hr.

     Explore The Tennessee River Gorge® Aboard our New 20′ Pontoon, Lund Fishing Boats,Jon Boats                                                    Canoes Kayaks.                                               

If you are looking to escape the routines of life, appreciate the beauty of nature, observe majestic wildlife, and experience the world from a different perspective, you can turn to us at Canoe Kayak Chattanooga. Our goal is to provide you with everything you need to have a wonderful experience at the Canoe Kayak Chattanooga.

Your Next Travel Destination

During the trip, you can feast your eyes on gorgeous mountains and cliffs that are up to 1,800’ft in height. The top of these natural wonders are the highest points of the 652-mile Tennessee River. If you wish to enjoy the view atop these mountains and cliffs, we can refer you to Snooper’s Rock, Prentice Cooper State Forest,

There is a bounty of sights to behold. Additionally, you can observe wildlife, which includes the following: Birds Expand

• Nesting and Fishing Bald Eagles
• Nesting and Fishing Ospreys
• Skull Cap Eagles
• Great Blue Herons
• Red-Breasted Mergansers
• Kingfishers
• Pileated Woodpeckers
• Peregrine Falcons

Other Aquatic Animals Expand

Fish Expand

• Smallmouth/Largemouth Bass
• Blue, Flathead & Channel Catfishes

Land Conservation Efforts

99% of all the land through the 27 mile Tennessee River Gorge is state owned. Over 179 miles of shoreline (10,370 acres). Prentice Cooper State Forest (24,686 acres).

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Kayaking Near Me

Find A Local Paddle Spot

Kayaking in Tennessee

Tennessee may be the central hub of country music, but it’s got plenty to offer naturewise with boating, kayak rentals , and rafting, among other outdoor activities.

Read on to discover some of the best places for Tennessee kayaking.

The Duck River is the longest in Tennessee, but it is a good place to get your feet wet (no pun intended). Plus, it’s only a 50-minute trek from Nashville. The water only goes up to about Class II, with little to no rapids, so you can take it slow along the five-mile paddle. 

The Duck River contains some of the most diverse plant and animal life species in Tennessee, so who knows? You might spot a covey of turkeys, a few blue herons, or perhaps a few ducks lazing by the river’s edge.

You can visit the Higher Pursuits outfitter for canoe rental, life jackets, paddleboards, and other kayaking accommodations. You can take canoeing or kayaking classes and even take guided tours of the Duck River Blueway. 

Hiwassee River

If you’re looking to paddle past some mountains on more intermediate waters, Hiwassee River Is worth a try. The river runs through some high mountains and the cliffs of Gee Creek, both of which are remarkable sights. 

If you ever want to stop to picnic, there are plenty of access points along the river for taking a break to eat or swim in the shallows. 

There aren’t usually many boaters on the river, so the water should be easy to navigate and safe to swim in. For tube or shuttle rentals, you can check out Webb Bros. Grocery. 

Caney Fork River

The Caney Fork River, located in middle Tennessee, is a huge draw for kayakers and paddlers. In fact, it’s a great idea to reserve a spot since parking gets tight at the put-in on weekends. 

However, the river is only five and a half miles, and once you get past the start of the river, it should be an easy ride. You might run into a few fishermen if you kayak early in the morning since the Caney fork River is a major trout-fishing area. 

Be careful about the rising water level since, twice a day, water is released from a nearby dam. 

For a faster trip, time your paddling an hour after the release, but release schedules can change without warning, so keep your eye on the water. The water never runs low, so you won’t have to worry about beaching while you watch the birds and fish.

Big South Fork of the Cumberland River

The Big South Fork of the Cumberland River, which flows along the Kentucky-Tennessee state line, is a scenic river full of archeological sites and the occasional black bear. 

The 27-mile trip between Leatherwood Ford and the Blue Heron Mine is the most commonly kayaked trip on this river, and the rapids don’t usually go above a Class I or II. 

Mid-autumn is a great time of year for kayaking in Tennessee since you’ll paddle along a gorge with plenty of beautiful foliage, and the water is sprinkled with different-colored leaves. 

If you anticipate taking a longer paddling trip, you can rent out a cabin or set up an outdoor camp along the river.

Tennessee River Blueway

The Tennessee River Blueway is a bit of an extended trip, but it’s full of great spots for swimming and watching wildlife. Most kayakers like to begin their trip at the Harrison Bay State Park in Chattanooga, a city which you can still enjoy further down the Tennessee River. 

You can pass by the Delta Queen boat, a permanently docked hotel with fountains spraying onto the river. Feel free to paddle underneath them in case you need to cool off a bit. 

Some wildlife you may spot can include osprey, herons, kingfisher, the occasional bald eagle, and deer. If you make it far enough to some campsites, you might enjoy some rope swinging just offshore, as well as some safe small cliffs to jump off into the water.

Nolichucky River

Located 20 minutes south of Johnson City, the Nolichucky River begins in North Carolina and then flows into Tennessee. The river has all kinds of access points to accommodate different experience levels. 

You can start above the gorge and reach the campground, or you can put in near Cherokee Adventures before disembarking at the site of the Chuckey Trading Company. 

While an average trip on the river takes two to four hours, Class III or Class IV rapids sometimes pop up. Keep in mind that most outfitters on the river pack up around August, so it’s best to kayak in early spring or summertime when the river flows more slowly.

Ocoee River

The Ocoee River, which flows toward the Hiwassee River, is a great place for history buffs and fishermen to visit. You’ll have access to plenty of lodging and eateries, as well as other rivers, such as the Nantahala, the Tellico, the French Broad, and the Chattooga. 

The base of the Ocoee Dam is an excellent trout fishing area, though you do need a fishing license to use it. Besides trout, you might also encounter the Tennessee State fish, the smallmouth.

You can take out at the Reynolds Bridge or the Hwy 411 Bridge if you ever need to stop along the river. This particular bridge is also where you’ll find the gravesite for Nancy Ward, who sheltered Cherokee Indians on their journey down the Trail of Tears.

Clear Creek

Several rivers in Tennessee are excellent for whitewater kayaking, but the Clear Creek, about an hour west of Knoxville, is one of the most popular.

 More experienced kayakers tend to take the route toward Jack’s rock, an eight-foot drop in the river, before moving on to the Upper section, which has plenty of rock formations and caves to observe. 

The rapids don’t typically go above Class I or II, but some Class III rapids pop up towards the end of the creek. You should also note that the creek flows best in the winter and spring, so be sure to bring plenty of cold-weather gear for inclement weather.

Harpeth River State Park

The Harpeth River is a Class I river for its entire length so that beginner kayakers might find it a great starting point. Besides enjoying the river itself with kayaking and fishing, you can enjoy activities at the state park, which manages several access points along 40 miles of the river.

Several events are held throughout the year at the park, including interactive activities with animals and archeological hikes. Keep in mind that there is no camping or overnight parking and some access points do close due to high water.

Located in South Central Tennessee, the Elk River is great for when you’re in a fishing mood on a pretty gentle Class I river. The water right below the dam is cold and clear, so it’s a good spot for fishing, especially rainbow, brown, brook trout, and small and largemouth bass. 

You can look online for a schedule when they’ll release water from the dam, which raises the water levels substantially, so be careful. You might even see a blue heron, a bald eagle, or a turtle or two as you paddle along.

Tims Ford Lake and State Park are stationed nearby, with biking and hiking trails, campgrounds, and even a swimming pool. The Elk River Canoe Rental can get you set up for an afternoon of adventure for any kayaking needs.

David Crockett State Park

So far, we’ve seen plenty of rivers, but not that many lakes, like the one at David Crockett State Park. Lake Lindsey, the park’s small 35-acre lake, is perfect for a small kayaking or boating adventure, where you can use your own equipment or rent some for cheap daily or hourly rates. 

If you’re just starting, the lake is a good place to practice or show your family how to navigate the water. You might even catch a few fish in the lake too, which is open all year round.

There are plenty of camping accommodations onsite if you plan to spend the night at the park, including completely furnished cabins and traditional primitive campsites. If you happen to walk through the nearby woodlands, you might also see one of the hundreds of species of birds.

Long Hunter State Park

The 110-acre Couchville Lake is open year-round for paddling, fishing, and boating, but you can only rent equipment for those sports during the summer for reasonable hourly rates. Paddles and life jackets are provided since life jackets are required on the water.

J. Percy Priest Lake offers the same accommodations as Couchville Lake, in addition to two boat launch docks. 

Montgomery Bell State Park  

Montgomery Bell State Park houses three lakes, all of which have spacious beach space and are suitable for paddling. The newly remodeled Lodge is great for extended lakeside stays, plus cabins and campsites that accommodate pop-up campers and RVs.

Photo Credit: sk via Flickr CC2.0

Want to know when we add new paddle spots?

For kayakers that want to stay safe:, get our free kayak safety checklist.

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Explore Rentals

Guided trips, sign up now, higher pursuits.

Higher Pursuits is located near Columbia, TN and offers a wide array of water-based adventures. We provide kayak rentals, canoe rentals, paddling classes, and guided trips on the Duck River.

In 1998, Higher Pursuits started providing teambuilding programs in Middle Tennessee as well as guided canoe trips. In 2009, as the economy shifted, we needed to reevaluate our business and expand our operation. At this time, we began building the canoe base and offering kayak and canoe rentals .  We selected the Duck River because of its amazing diversity of wildlife and the beauty of the section of Duck River that flows through Maury County. Our Higher Pursuits Canoe base started with a love for the river and a passion for paddling and then built from there.

Our goal is connect you with the natural wonder of the river while providing great service, quality equipment and a family friendly environment.

We offer a wide selection of kayaks as well as two-person kayaks and canoes. Our paddling route flows through the Yanahli Wildlife Management Area and is great for all ability levels and ages 3 and up. Learn more about our paddling route.

Where we offer trips:

The section of the Duck River that we operate on is part of the Duck River Blueway and is a state scenic river.  The Duck River has something for everyone and can be enjoyed by novices, families, and experienced paddlers. It features historic mill sites and a great abundance of wildlife. Many paddlers are fortunate enough to see great blue herons, belted kingfishers, bald eagles, minks, beavers, muskrats and river otters. In the water there are over 100 species of fish and thousands of freshwater mussels. The Duck River is designated as a freshwater mussel sanctuary.

In addition to the rental operation, we also provide outdoor education classes for both paddling skills and outdoor skills as well as guided trips . If you are a boy scout, girl scout or American Heritage Girls troop leader visit our Scout Leaders page to learn more about our program offerings.

Learn more about our:

• Kayak and Canoe Rentals
• Classes on Canoeing and Kayaking
• Our story and the owners of Higher Pursuits
• Directions to Higher Pursuits
• Hours of operation
• Contact Us for questions
• Learn about other places to paddle in Middle Tennessee

Higher Pursuits is a proud member of the America Outdoors Association , American Canoe Association and the Tennessee Paddlesports Association .

We look forward to seeing you at the Higher Pursuits Duck River Canoe Base!

Hours of Operation

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River Trips Currently Running

Our Tennessee Float Trips

Trips now Available

The Haunted Canoe Trip

Spaces are limited so book quickly are you brave enough.

Adult Ticket $45 / person

Child Ticket $25 / person

Fridays and Saturdays End of September to Beginning of November

This Fall at Canoe the Caney, bring your friends and climb aboard for a spine-tingling, after-dark, historic ghost tour.

Setting the stage for this chilling adventure, The Haunted Canoe Trip takes you into the spooky world of  Center Hill Lake after dark. This haunting venture is an epic, spine-tingling ghost tour that first wanders to the old cemetery. Stay close as you hear the accounts of a flooded town with lost graves, ghostly encounters, unexplained voices, and eerie sounds.

Nearing an old military recreation base, you’ll quiver at the stories of ghostly hauntings as you continue slowly down the dark path through the base leading to the water’s edge. Once there, if you’re brave enough, you’ll board your canoe and paddle over the original location of the old 1800s sunken cemetery that is just a mere 15 feet below the water’s surface. This is where many believe lost graves still remain and those spirits trapped just beneath these dark waters of Cemetery Cove.

Are you brave enough to paddle these waters as your tour takes you deep into the Cove? It’s frightening, it’s unbelievably dark, and….it’s real! Join us — if you dare.

Most Popular Scenic 2-5 Hour Trip

Best scenery and time spent on the river.

Canoe: $44.99 per person

Kayak $54.99 per person

Shuttle $34.99 per boat

Available Daily

Caney Fork River – Most Popular River Float

Our 3-5 hour river float is the perfect choice for those who like to spend the day on the water! Depending on water flow and launch location, this trip can be paddled in 3-5 hours on average while also allowing time to stop at sand bars along the way. This is also a great option for those looking to fish along the way and are in search of the larger elusive Rainbow Trout. With several nests along the Caney Fork River, bald eagles frequently fly overhead while Blue Herons guide your way downriver.

With the beautiful sights and wildlife, this river excursion will give you plenty to see and plenty to do with your day spent canoeing or kayaking the Caney Fork River!

Trip times vary depending on water and weather conditions:

Weekdays: 10am, and 12pm

Weekends: Hourly from 9am-2pm

Self Service Canoe and Kayak Rentals

Canoe: $79.99 per boat

Kayak $54.99 per boat

Tandem $99.99 per boat

Self Servicing canoe and kayak rentals are Coming Soon to Canoe the Caney. If you have transportation to and from wherever you are going but seem to be a boat or two short then we now have you covered! Book your self service rental where you get to choose how many canoes, kayaks, and even tandem kayaks you will be needing. Then just come here to us and pick them up, all we ask is you have them back by the end of the day.

Trips not Currently Running

Happy hollow.

Canoe $34.99 Per Person

Kayak $44.99 Per Person

Bring Your Own $24.99 Per Boat

(Weekend Prices can fluctuate depending on peak times)

Not Currently Running

Happy Hollow is the shortest trip option, offering up 6 miles of full-on nature. Starting at Center Hill Dam, this is a great stretch of water that serves up a whole lot of nature in a little bit of time. You’ll float under magnificent treetops and over colorful brown and rainbow trout. Your adventure takes you between towering rock bluffs and wide-open green pastures of farmland before ending at the first pick-up point. Whether you’re looking for an easy paddle or a chance to hook the big one, this is the easiest way to immerse yourself in this amazing natural habitat and soak up a small dose of the rustic river known as the Caney Fork. Come on out and get your dose of nature today!

Betty’s Island Train Bridge

Canoe $44.99 Per Person

Kayak $54.99 Per Person

Bring Your Own $34.99 Per Boat

The Bettys Island float trip is our most popular float trip we offer at Canoe the Caney. This trip takes you 9 miles downriver from just below Center Hill Dam. In addition to the magnificent Happy Hollow scenery, you’ll pass under the 1800s train bridge, famous for its appearance in   The Green Mile  movie. Take time to search out a nest of bald eagles and watch the world zip by as you float lazily underneath 3 sets of interstate bridges. Keep an eye on the water too. You might just see the reflection of rainbow or brown trout zipping around your vessel. It’s easy to let your mind wander as you float on down the river. Come on out, clear your mind and treat yourself to some much-needed nature.

5-6 Hour Scenic Excursion to Stonewall

Canoe: $49.99 per person

Kayak $64.99 per person

Shuttle $44.99 per boat

The Stonewall River trip, an easy paddle, takes you from Happy Hollow downriver to the old historic Stonewall Bridge, built in 1901 and famous for its unique 90-degree turn. This is a great stretch of water that serves up a whole lot of nature in a little bit of time. You’ll float under magnificent treetops and over colorful brown and rainbow trout. This rustic river adventure takes you between towering rock bluffs and wide-open green pastures of farmland. Paddling under the old 1800s train bridge filmed in the movie   The Green Mile , starring Tom Hanks, gives this stretch of water its own star quality. And from there, it’s likely you’ll see bald eagles nesting near Goat Mountain. Statuesque great blue herons leads you down river as they play cat and mouse, stopping alongside the edge of the river to give you just enough time to spot them and catch up. Keep you eyes peeled, because high up along the bluff you’ll spot the Yuchi Caverns as well as lost mines tucked in tight. Further downstream of Betty’s Island you’ll see old Sebowisha Plantation, the former home site of Tennessee Central Railroad Tycoon, Jere Baxter.

Hidden Falls Excursion

This is a moderate to strenuous lake paddle. canoe or tandem kayaks recommended.

Canoe or Kayak/Tandem Kayak

$60.00 Per Adult $35.00 Per Child

Limited Availability per Trip

See the special excursion that landed us on the Travel Channel!

Available Saturdays

Get ready for one of the most exciting adventures Canoe the Caney has ever offered! The Hidden Falls excursion takes paddlers on a six mile round trip excursion into secluded coves leading up to a beautiful waterfall.

*Pro Tip: As this paddle is a flat water lake paddle with some pushback from the waterfall, the paddle to and from can require some extra effort, especially if you are use to the gentle flow of the Caney Fork River… We suggest you share the effort with a paddle partner. This trip is most enjoyable when paddling with a partner in either a canoe or tandem kayak!

This trip is available at limited times only, as water levels have to be just right to offer it. When this trip is available, bring your friends and family for one of the most scenic and breathtaking adventures you’ve ever experienced.

The trip starts on Center Hill Lake where you will begin the 6 mile 3-5 hour paddle on open water. At the end of the cove guests will reach the destination of the massive waterfall standing over 50 feet tall! Since the “Upper” Caney Fork has some larger areas, it is also great for your next large scout group or church outing. Both guided and self guided trip options are available.

Upper Caney Lake Paddle

Canoe $34.99Per Person

Bring Your Own $24.99 Per Person

Call For Details and Times

Canoe the Caney is proud to offer some of the most beautiful trips along the riverbanks of the “Upper” Caney Fork River (Center Hill Lake). On these trips paddlers will enjoy either a 6-mile, 9-mile or 12-mile round trip along the banks of the upper Caney as they explore beautiful coves, waterfalls and an abundance of wildlife and nature. Unlike our “lower” river excursions, the  “upper” excursions allow guests to explore the waterfalls of the Caney as well as other beautiful secluded coves,  and islands.   These trips are very subjective to time of year and water levels.

The second trip begins at the beautiful Lakeside Resort complex where paddlers can book their nights stay  and wake up to enjoy a 6-mile trip around Davies Island and to “picnic bay”, where if you prepared ahead, you can enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch on the banks of the island. This trip is very popular in April and May as well as September and October.

Shorter 1.5-3 Hour Excursion

Best canoe rental for beginners or those with limited time..

Canoe: $34.99 per person

Kayak $44.99 per person

Shuttle $24.99 per boat

Canoeing or Kayaking a new river is always an adventure and we’re here to help make it the best day possible. Our short river float is the perfect choice for those who like a slower, meandering pace. Depending on water flow and launch location, this trip can be paddled in 1 -3 hours on average while also allowing time to stop at sand bars along the way. This is also a great option for those with small kids, first-time paddlers, or those looking to fish.

With the beautiful sights and wildlife, this short river paddle will give you plenty to enjoy as well as the excitement to come back and experience our longer excursion on your next visit!

Trip times   vary depending on water and weather conditions:

The Pirate’s Dinner & Sunset River Cruise

Seating is limited : Canoes Only

$59 per Adult

$29 Children 12 and Under

Special Event Call for pricing and availability

This year brings a brand-new experience to the Caney Fork River, as Canoe the Caney introduces for the first time ever  The Pirate’s Dinner and Sunset River Cruise!

Your evening begins with a Capt’n Jabeez dinner of hearty grub, served up by the galley crew, all while you enjoy some family-friendly, swashbuckling entertainment of music, comedy, and tales of the Caney Fork River told by our resident sea dog, Pirate Sam.

Then climb aboard our nostalgic trolley for a brief historic tour as you pass through the deserted ghost Town of Buffalo Valley, once a large shipping port during the 19 th  Century. Hear stories of how the steamboats and log rafts that made their way up and down the Caney Fork, and about the pirates that trailed them. You’ll then board your canoe and enjoy one of the most scenic stretches of river in Tennessee. As evening arrives, scan the treetops for the magnificent birds of prey: eagles, hawks and owls. Listen to the sounds of evening as the rainbow trout leap and twist, splashing into the cool water. Watch as the playful river otters glide in front, or alongside your canoe, and enjoy the beautiful sunset as colors of pink, orange and purple paint the sky.

Jet Ski Hidden Waterfall Tour

Jet Ski (Fits up to 2 people) $499.99

Join us for one of the most thrilling ways to see the falls!

*Reservations Required 24 hours in advance*

Available Daily Throughout the Week at Noon

Join us for our Jet Ski Waterfall Tour on Center Hill Lake. This guided tour of Center Hill Lake takes 3-4 hours and explores some of the most popular destinations along the lake. See some of the best spots on the lake including 2 gorgeous towering waterfalls right on the water. One of the most popular canoe and kayak trips, now on Jet Skis!

Stonewall Historic Day Trip

Due to the length of the trip, there are certain water conditions necessary for this excursion.

Keep an eye on Facebook for announcements.

Great for Scout Groups!

Special Excursion Day Event Call for pricing and availability

The Stonewall River trip from Long Branch (just below Center Hill) is a full day of fun. This 9:00 to 5:00 excursion is NOT your typical day of work. Here, you’ll be reaching for your camera instead of your mouse or phone.

As the river unfolds past beautiful landscapes like a tapestry of brilliant shapes and colors, history comes alive with old train bridges and hidden caverns, while green pastures come into view, dotted with robust, shiny-coated horses and meandering cows feasting in the distance. All from the comfort of your seat….not at your desk or in a car…but above the cool water softly rippling underneath.

A magnificent 1800s train bridge gives you a glimpse of what life was like in years past, while soaring bald eagles gliding overhead invite your mind to focus on this timeless picture of majestic grace. Down below, rainbow and brown trout scurry alongside your vessel looking for their next big bug, while great blue heron play cat and mouse as you both move along in perfect harmony immersed in this natural and rustic habitat.

Sit back and enjoy your job for the day—the best kind of 9 to 5.

Great Family Fun, all Season Long. Limited Availability!

Our Location

1 mile off i-40 exit 273.

Copyright © 2024 by CanoetheCaney.com All Right Reserved

Best Kayak Camping Trips – 5 Places for Your First Overnight Kayaking Trip

Love heading out on the lake with your friends, family, and a couple of kayaks? 

Or maybe you just finished a Kevin Bacon movie marathon that ended with White Water Summer and you’re feeling a little inspired to take a kayak camping trip?

Whatever your reasons, choosing the right place for an overnight kayak trip is just as important as making sure you’ve packed your kayaks properly with all your needed gear.

Choosing the right destination can help ensure your first overnight trip is a fun and relaxing journey where you become “one with the waterways” and not your personal reenactment of Adrift .

Now that you’ve got some movies to add to your next marathon (you know you gotta start with White Water Summer!) let’s check out a few tips that’ll help you choose the right place for your first kayak camping trip.

Then we’ll check out my list of 5 places you can use as inspiration when choosing your destination.

How To Choose the Best Place for Your First Overnight Kayak Trip – So You Know You’ll Have a Blast!

The U.S. is a big place and you might not live near some of the places on my list. So don’t feel like you absolutely HAVE to go to one of those places. 

What makes a destination a good choice for your first overnight kayak trips aren’t just the scenic locations. It’s really more about choosing a place that lets you ease into overnight kayaking and the specific challenges it presents.

So here are some things you should keep in mind when choosing where you’ll take your trip!

1. Keep Your Kayaking Trip Short and Simple

Sure, it’d be fun to head out on the open ocean for a week to paddle to some remote islands. But it’s best not to have to deal with long distances, strong currents, and extra packing on your first trip.

So don’t push it. 

• Give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going. 
• For your first time overnight with a kayak, stick to just a one-night trip. That way if you don’t pack enough or forget an essential item (like the wine bottle opener), it won’t be such a big deal.
• Stay on calm water and/or slow-moving rivers
• Make sure you have clear weather… really who wants to be kayaking when it’s raining?

How many miles should you cover on your first overnight trip?

A lot depends on your kayaking experience. Experienced paddlers might be able to cover 20 miles or more in one day on still water. But us newbies should plan for about 10 miles or less per full day of paddling on still water. If you’re going downstream on a river, then you can add a few more miles. 

That should give you plenty of time to take it easy, rest for lunch, and even explore a little. And your arms won’t feel like jelly the next day!

2. Choose a Place That’s Not Too Far From Home

If you’re a beginner kayaker on your first overnight kayaking trip, it’s best to stay relatively close to home and not venture too far out into the wilderness.

It’s not that kayaking on calm bodies of water is an extreme sport (it does have its dangers), but since your first trip will be short, it’s nice to spend more time kayaking and less time driving. 

Plus, if you happen to forget something like your life jackets, it’s easier to run home and get it before you head out on the water.

3. Choose a Well-Traveled Kayak or Canoe Trail

Your first overnight kayaking trip will be way easier to plan if you follow a well-known route. As you’ll see a bit later with some of the destinations on the list, some parks have well-marked routes with established campsites for boaters.

There are tons of online maps for these areas. Plus, possible dangers like rough sections of a river are usually well-marked so they’ll be easier for you to avoid.

* Want some more tips for planning your first kayak camping trip? Don’t miss my Complete Guide to Your First Kayak Camping Trip (+Packing List ) . 

So now that we’ve covered a few things that’ll help you choose the best place for your first overnight kayak trips, let’s look at some more specific destinations that should be on your radar.

5 of the Best Kayak Camping Destinations to Inspire Your Next Trip

• Paddle in Campgrounds

French Broad River Trail, North Carolina/Tennessee  

• Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness

San Juan Islands, Washington

• Kayak Camping Tours

Paddle-In Campgrounds

Paddle-in campsites or paddle-in campgrounds are a great place for first-time kayak campers. Depending on the park, they’re usually well-marked, maintained, and may even have some bathroom facilities. 

If you want a more established campground with at least some basic amenities, try something like Nancy’s Boat to Shore Campground on Raystown Lake , Pennsylvania. 

It’s a campground that can only be accessed from the water and is located on the popular Raystown Lake. With the vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, you’re pretty much living in the lap of luxury (as far as kayak camping goes). 

Kayaking to a place like this is a nice way to work out the kinks with your kayaking gear without being too far out in the middle of nowhere. 

To find similar places like this near you, just google “paddle-in campgrounds near (location)”. Or try one of the other destinations below.

Another nice option is to choose a destination like the French Broad River Trail in North Carolina and Tennessee.   

Paddle along the French Broad River and stop at one of the strategically placed Paddle Trail Campsites and Campgrounds. The campsites are strategically placed along the river trail to make it easier for kayakers and canoers to find a campsite.

They even provide suggestions for 1-5 night trips along with suggested routes, campsites, and distances between them. 

It’s also a nice place for experimenting with longer kayak trips since there are plenty of towns along the 140-mile length of the trail where you can stop off to get supplies. 

Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

This beautiful and somewhat remote area extends along the US-Canada border and should be on your list of kayak camping locations to try.

• Over 1,000 miles of kayak and canoe routes!
• Over 2,000 designated campsites (see one of the campsites in the picture below)
• Maps of the boating routes and portage trails

Plus, it’s a perfect location for animal lovers since wildlife sightings are common in the park. Get ready to see deer, beavers, otters, and even moose!

Learn more about this kayaking destination here .

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

Lake Tahoe is famous for its recreational activities. There’s just tons of fun stuff to do in that area year-round, including kayak camping. 

Paddle on the crystal clear blue waters with beautiful views of the lake on Lake Tahoe’s Water Trail. There are 13 different campgrounds around the lake, and they even offer pre-planned kayaking routes with maps and info to help make your trip a success. 

Get more info here:

• Lake Tahoe Water Trail

If you want a place where you can try sea kayaking without venturing too far out into the open waters or far away from civilization, the San Juan Islands are for you.

They’re a group of islands located in northwest Washington, right at the southern tip of Vancouver Island. They have a nice combination of isolated islands ready for exploration combined with established harbors and even a resort retreat . (Why not get a massage and soak in a hot tub before heading back to your glampsite?)

And if you need to rent gear or want to take a guided tour, there are plenty of outfitters in this area.

Speaking of guided tours, why not try one for your first overnight kayak trip?

Guided Kayak Camping Tours

Many of the top destinations for kayak and camping destinations will usually have outfitters in the area where you can rent kayaks, camping gear like tents and sleeping bags, or even book guided tours. 

If you’re not completely set up with all the gear you need for kayak camping and aren’t really sure if you’ll want to do it again, a kayak tour is a wise choice since you won’t have to worry about planning your route and packing your gear. Just show up and paddle!

A Few Other Places to Consider

Want some more options? Here are a few other destinations to consider with well established paddling trails.

• Everglades National Park : A bunch of established paddling trails and wilderness campsites on elevated platforms above the water. Some even have porta potties!
• The Grand Canyon : Definitely not a place for your first trip, but one to put on your list. You’ll need to get a non-commercial river permit (done through a lottery) and a backcountry camping permit . You could also book a guided tour.
• Channel Islands : Another amazing sea kayaking destination.
• Hudson River Greenway Water Trail : A great place for a scenic river trip not too far from New York City. Plenty of launch points, campsites, and other places to stay along the route.

Bucket List Places for Kayak Camping

Once you’ve tried some of the above places, why not venture beyond U.S. borders and go for a real kayak camping adventure! 

Experience the fjords of Norway like never before, cruise around the Greek islands in a kayak , or visit some deserted South Pacific islands on a guided kayak tour .

Where Will You Go On Your First Kayak Camping Trip?

So now that you’ve got some inspiration for choosing your first kayak camping destination, where ya gonna go? Should I look for you on the clear waters of Lake Tahoe? Or maybe on a remote Greek island? 

Whichever place you choose for your first overnight kayak trip, remember…

• Start with a short and simple trip
• Choose a well-traveled location 
• Watch White Water Summer before you go
• Plan ahead carefully
• And… HAVE A BLAST!

Don’t forget to check out my other kayak camping guides that’ll help you with planning your trip.

8 BEST KAYAKS FOR YOUR FIRST KAYAK CAMPING TRIP – COMPLETE GUIDE

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO YOUR FIRST KAYAK CAMPING TRIP (+PACKING LIST)

HOW TO PACK YOUR KAYAK FOR A CAMPING TRIP – COMPLETE GUIDE + BONUS PACKING LIST

CAMP COOKING FOR KAYAKERS | YOUR KAYAK CAMPING KITCHEN GUIDE

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HI! I'm Stacy, AKA “The Crazy Outdoor Mama”

I'm the voice behind the website, and I hope you've found what you needed! I'm an outdoorsy married mother of three from Wyoming, and I LOVE creating resources that make camping and other outdoor activities easier!