Kayaking & Canoeing
Watching your paddle slice through blue water as you glide over a quiet lake—sound like something you’d like to do on vacation? For many travelers, the perfect trip begins and ends on the water. No matter whether canoeing or kayaking is your passion, RV campers have access to amazing venues throughout the US.
We’ve gathered information on some of the best rivers, lakes and streams in America, so grab your paddles, pack the RV and get going!
Kayaking and Canoeing RV Vacations
Western US Kayaking/Canoeing Adventures
Spend a cool, green afternoon shooting through the rocks and rapids of the Clackamas River in Oregon. A favorite with kayaking enthusiasts in the area, it also draws RV campers from far and near. Carter Bridge Campground in Mt. Hood National Forest accommodates RVs up to 28 feet and is right next door to twelve miles of Class III-IV rapids.
Southern California’s Big Bear Lake is a canoeist’s paradise, with its gorgeous mountain scenery and abundant wild life. Travel the many rock-lined coves for an unforgettable day on the water. When you’re ready to relax in your comfy RV, be sure it’s parked at Big Bear Shores RV Resort. Pick up your reserved RV rental at our San Bernardino location before heading for this beautiful lake.
Washington’s mighty Columbia River has almost unlimited possibilities for an RV canoeing vacation. Put in at easy access points all along the river for a different adventure every day. We’ve heard great things about Elocohoman Marina and RV Park near Cathlamet, with all the amenities campers and boaters enjoy.
Southwestern US Kayaking/Canoeing Adventures
Rio Grande River – New Mexico: This famous Southwest river is especially exciting for kayakers when you put in near Taos, New Mexico. Expert kayakers will thrill to black rock canyons, water rushing over lava plains and spectacular scenery as far as the eye can see. Camp next door to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains in scenic Monte Bello RV Park near Taos for an unforgettable kayaking vacation.
Central US Kayaking/Canoeing Adventures
Roaring through the rapids on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in Idaho is a trip you won’t soon forget! Seeing the rocky shores and pine forests of this mysterious river by kayak can only be matched by peaceful nights at the Pinehurst Resort and RV Park on the banks of the Little Salmon River south of Riggins.
For the chance to canoe several mountain lakes in one vacation, head for Colorado’s Arapahoe National Recreation Area. Two hours northwest of Denver, this area encompasses five reservoirs, each offering a different experience to canoeists. If you’re on an extended RV camping vacation, the Colorado River and Grand Lake are both nearby and well-known to veteran canoe adventurers. Developed campsites are available within the ANRA.
Eastern US Kayaking/Canoeing Adventures
For a glorious vacation on a scenic mountain river, make tracks for the Shenandoah in Virginia! You’ll find an amazing abundance of canoe and kayak excursion outfitters there, if you’d like to simply fly in, pick up your RV and head for adventure! Our El Monte RV Rentals staff can answer your questions and reserve just the right RV for your trip.
One more “can’t miss” canoeing and kayaking opportunity—world-famous Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, just an hour and a half from New York City. Numerous canoe livery services operate on both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania sides of the Gap, making it possible to be rent a canoe or kayak and be transported right to the water.
Experiencing a lake or river by canoe or kayak can be one of the most satisfying ways to spend a vacation. Motorhome camping only adds to the enjoyment! For even more information on places in America to kayak or canoe, be sure to check Paddling.net, and then let us know when you’re ready to head for the water!