Exploring the Best Campgrounds for Kayaking Adventures
If you're anything like me, there's something truly magical about combining kayaking with camping. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in nature, experience the tranquility of a lake or river, and challenge yourself with new adventures—all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Over the years, I’ve discovered some incredible campgrounds where kayaking is not just an activity but the highlight of the experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced kayaker, these spots offer the perfect blend of water, wilderness, and campgrounds. Let me take you through some of the best places to enjoy kayaking and camping in the United States.
1. Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain views. I’ve been to Lake Tahoe several times, and each time I visit, I’m reminded of why it’s a top kayaking destination. The lake stretches across the California-Nevada border, offering ample space for kayaking, with plenty of coves and hidden beaches to explore.
For camping, I recommend staying at the Camp Richardson Historic Resort and Marina. It offers lakeside campsites, with easy access to the water for launching kayaks. Whether you're paddling in the morning mist or kayaking in the afternoon sun, the views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains are unbeatable.
One of my most memorable kayaking experiences here was when I paddled to the edge of Emerald Bay, one of the most picturesque spots on the lake. The water was so clear that I could see the rocky bottom even in deep sections. Afterward, I camped at the nearby campground, where I spent the evening watching the sunset over the lake.
2. Everglades National Park, Florida
If you’re looking for a kayaking adventure that's a bit more wild and unique, the Everglades should be at the top of your list. This expansive national park is home to diverse ecosystems, from mangrove forests to sawgrass marshes. The waterways are teeming with wildlife, and there’s nothing quite like kayaking through the Everglades, listening to the sounds of nature and witnessing the occasional alligator or manatee swimming nearby.
For the best kayaking experience, I stayed at the Long Pine Key Campground inside the park. This campground offers access to the park’s backcountry water trails. There are various options for kayaking here, whether you’re interested in the calm waters of the freshwater sloughs or the more challenging saltwater marshes. I’ve paddled along the famous 10,000 Islands, where the waterways wind through mangroves, and the horizon seems endless. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and serenity.
3. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
For those seeking an unforgettable kayaking experience in the great northern wilderness, the Boundary Waters in Minnesota is an absolute gem. As part of the larger Superior National Forest, this vast area consists of more than 1,000 lakes and rivers, making it an ideal destination for both kayaking and camping. This is where I spent one of my most peaceful weekends, paddling through remote lakes and staying in backcountry campsites accessible only by water.
The Boundary Waters is well-known for its wilderness experience, with few roads and even fewer crowds. If you’re planning on visiting, it’s best to bring a map and a sense of adventure. There are numerous campsites dotted along the water, so you can paddle from one beautiful spot to the next. If you enjoy solitude and connecting with nature, this is the place to be.
4. Colorado River, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Kayaking in the Grand Canyon is an iconic adventure, and it’s something I’ve dreamed of for years. The Colorado River winds through this massive geological wonder, and kayaking through its rapids is an adrenaline rush like no other. There are various levels of difficulty, so you can choose a section of the river that matches your skill level.
While kayaking here is exhilarating, camping near the river is equally impressive. I stayed at one of the primitive campsites along the river where the sound of the rushing water and the view of the canyon walls towering above created an awe-inspiring atmosphere. A word of caution: kayaking in the Grand Canyon is challenging, and it’s best to go with a guide if you’re not experienced with swift water kayaking.
5. Olympic National Park, Washington
Olympic National Park in Washington is one of the most diverse parks in the country, offering a combination of mountain, coastal, and forest environments. This park has a remarkable kayaking scene, especially along the shores of the Olympic Peninsula. I’ve had the pleasure of kayaking in the serene waters of Crescent Lake, surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks.
There’s also the opportunity to explore the coastline along the Strait of Juan de Fuca, where you can see wildlife like sea otters and bald eagles. The Ozette Campground is one of the best places to camp while exploring the region. It's just a short distance from the lake, and it provides access to hiking trails and kayaking spots. Paddling along the lake during sunrise, with the mist rising off the water and the surrounding peaks illuminated by the morning light, is an experience I’ll never forget.
6. Shenandoah River, Virginia
The Shenandoah River in Virginia is another wonderful place to kayak and camp, especially for those who enjoy a mix of calm water and beautiful mountain scenery. I’ve spent countless afternoons kayaking here, enjoying the peaceful flow of the river surrounded by the lush greenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s an easy-to-navigate river with gentle currents, making it perfect for beginner kayakers or those just looking for a relaxing paddle.
I recommend staying at the Shenandoah River State Park, which offers both campsites and cabins. The park provides direct access to the river, so you can launch your kayak right from your campsite. There are several miles of river to explore, and I particularly enjoyed paddling in the evenings when the sunlight casts a golden glow over the water.
7. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park is one of my all-time favorite places to kayak. Located along the rugged coastline of Maine, Acadia offers some of the most stunning ocean kayaking in the country. The clear waters and dramatic cliffs make for a truly unforgettable experience. I spent a week kayaking around the park's many coves and inlets, exploring its hidden gems and observing the diverse marine life.
For camping, I recommend the Blackwoods Campground, which is conveniently located within the park. From here, you can easily access the waters of the Atlantic for kayaking. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to combine ocean kayaking with camping in one of the most picturesque national parks in the U.S.
Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or someone just looking to paddle along beautiful waterways, these campgrounds provide the perfect backdrop for adventure. Each destination offers its own unique experience, from serene lakes to thrilling rapids and breathtaking coastlines. Wherever you choose to go, make sure to pack your gear, bring your sense of adventure, and enjoy the best kayaking adventures the U.S. has to offer!
