23 Kayaking in TEXAS (Adventurous, Relaxing & Life-changing)
Are you into water adventures, or are you someone who hates them?
Either way, kayaking can help you enjoy the water and learn to love outdoor fun.
Kayaking in Texas will allow you to escape from a busy life, breathe, and appreciate nature’s beauty.
Anyone can enjoy paddling!
It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner, expert, old, or young—you have the right to enjoy such activity.
You also don’t have to search for other places—Texas has it all!
Now, are you ready to paddle in joy and smell the relaxing aroma of nature?
If you are in for a spectacular vacation, then you should read on to discover different kayaking locations in Texas
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Indoor Water Parks in Texas.
Kayaking in Austin, Texas
1. Lady Bird Lake (Rowing Dock’s Excellence)
Do you just want to have a peaceful tour around a lake?
At Lady Bird Lake, the most famous place for kayaking in Texas, you can take delight in the view and the calmness it brings.
What makes this lake relaxing and quiet is the law that bans the noisy, haughty motorized boats.
If you’re wondering which kayak rental near Lady Bird Lake offers fun adventures, Rowing Dock is the one most people rave about.
There, you can choose to ride either a kayak for one person (single) or two persons (tandem).
Kayaking rate ranges from $20 to $25 per hour, and their schedule is on a first-come, first-served basis every day.
Not only one, but three types of kayaks are available: sit-inside, sit-on-top, and pedal kayaks.
Tourists enjoy kayaking at Lady Bird Lake not only because of the scenery and peaceful surroundings but also because of the service and warm accommodation of Rowing Dock.
The best part is that you can enjoy kayaking at the beautiful lake with your dog.
If this thrills you, don’t wait long and simply visit the magnificent Lady Bird Lake.
Address: 2418 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746, United States
2. Lake Austin (ATX Peace Paddling Adventure)
From Mansfield Dam to Tom Miller Dam, Lake Austin offers both natural scenery and a view of dreamy, elegant houses.
Heads-up: Lake Austin allows motorboats, so expect it’s not that quiet, and the water will be choppy.
If you want to experience a thrilling kayak experience at Lake Austin, go to ATX Peace Paddling, which also offers single and tandem kayaks.
Their kayaks are sturdy and easy to navigate so that you won’t experience anything but enjoyment.
The rate of their single kayaks starts at $15 for the first hour, and then you need to pay $10 if you extend it to another hour.
For double kayaks, the first hour costs $20, and an additional $10 for an extra hour.
You can also bring your dog with you and let them enjoy the beauty of Lake Austin.
Whether a beginner or an expert in kayaking, you’re ready to take the paddles and glide through the waters!
Address: 1206 Summit Edge Dr, Austin, TX 78732, United States
3. Lake Travis (Viking Ship Kayak Rentals)
One of the renowned recreation lakes in Texas, Lake Travis gives you breathtaking sunset sights and a comforting breeze.
It is also one of the most wonderful lakes because of its clean, emerald color.
Aside from the jaw-dropping scenery, Lake Travis’s enormous size lets you paddle along small islands or the shoreline.
You can reserve at Viking Ship Kayak Rentals, which has single kayaks, youth kayaks, and even fishing kayaks.
Their regular single kayak rates range from $20 per hour to $60 for eight hours, while their single youth kayak starts at $15 up to $50.
If you want to try fishing at Lake Travis, you can rent their fishing kayaks for $25 up to $75.
Gape at the beautiful scenery and fuel your excitement at Lake Travis with your friends, family, or even by yourself because you deserve that stress-relieving break.
Address: North Shore, Lago Vista, TX 78645, United States
Also see our article on Horseback Riding in Texas.
Kayaking in Houston, Texas
1. Lake Woodlands (Adventurous & Scenic)
This 200-acre lake invites people to enjoy adventures and dining experiences.
According to some reviews, even kids enjoy kayaking on the lake because the staff teaches them well before riding.
You will see elegant houses and large water fountains while paddling on a comfortable kayak.
At Lake Woodlands, Riva Row Boathouse is a prominent boat rental.
The fact that their boats often sell out fast corroborates their excellent service to anyone who only wishes to enjoy the lake and have a break.
Their watercraft will help you reach Lake Woodlands in only 20 to 25 minutes.
Just like the other kayaking rentals, Riva Row Boat House offers single, tandem, and pedal kayaks.
Their regular single kayak costs $20 for an hour and $5 for an additional hour; the tandem one costs $25 per hour and $5 for an additional.
You can book online with real-time availability if you’re ready to adore Lake Woodlands.
Address: 2101 Riva Row, The Woodlands, TX 77380, United States
2. Kinder Lake (Bayou City Adventures)
Kinder Lake is a popular part of Discovery Green, a village where you can explore and relax.
They provide kayak tours throughout the spring, summer, and autumn seasons, which makes sense because the weather is essential for such an activity.
Since the location is very homey, kayaking on Kinder Lake should be easy, enjoyable, and cozy.
The cool part here is you can see the fish swimming under.
Bayou City Adventures offers the Discovery Green pass and kayak rentals.
They advertise it as kid-friendly, as a guide will accompany them in the kayak if the parents don’t want to ride.
The Houston Skyline view will definitely keep you coming back because it’s like an escape from the busy but beautiful buildings.
For $5 per person, you can take a ride that will take you around the lake for two full circuits.
Satiate your water adventure craving, and try kayaking on Kinder Lake.
Address: 1500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010, United States
3. Buffalo Bayou (Explorative Trail)
What’s fun about this spot is that when you have your own kayak, you can get on and off the water at different points.
Buffalo Bayou is a body of water with a paddling trail of 26 miles.
This is popular for kayaking enthusiasts because of the adventure it brings through different sections you need to paddle through.
It’s a slow-moving body of water; hence, it’s also relaxing and enjoyable.
There, you will see beautiful sights, like the wildlife.
You can access Buffalo Bayou also through the help of Bayou City Adventures.
Their offers are perfect for family or friends’ outings as they have all the paddle crafts.
Their single kayak rental costs $30, and the tandem one is $40.
If you want to see a special part of Houston, don’t hesitate to visit Buffalo Bayou.
Address: 105 Sabine St, Houston, TX 77007, United States
4. Bay Area Park (Pinky’s Kayak Rentals)
This is just the starting point of the 3-hour kayaking tour hosted by Pinky’s Kayak Rentals.
Departing from Bay Area Park, you will pass through the five different bodies of water.
Those are Armand Bayou, Big Island Slough, Spring Gully, Horsepen Bayou, and Lake Mark Kramer.
Since this is a long ride, there will be a comprehensive tutorial and safety orientation.
Apparently, this 3-hour kayaking is for you if you are truly determined to explore wonderful nature and witness the wildlife.
Pinky’s Kayak Rentals offers single and tandem kayaks.
Their single kayak costs $45 for 3 hours, and their tandem kayak costs $55 for the same duration.
Don’t miss out on their 20% discount for group rentals because a lengthy tour is also more fun with companions!
Address: 7500 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX 77058, United States
Also see our article on Water Parks in Texas.
Kayaking in North Texas
1. Lakeview Lake (North Texas Kayak Experience)
Kayaking here will give you a one-of-a-kind experience because of everything you’ll see.
With a leisurely 2-mile tour, you will already appreciate stunning views, such as the sunset and cute animals.
If you want to see the turtles enjoying the sun, swimming beavers, and calm farm animals, this kayaking adventure is for you.
You can secure the 1.5-hour “Nature Escape Float” tour on North Texas Kayak Experience website.
Many consider this a hidden gem, so you are lucky to discover this.
Isn’t it also cool that they’ll give you waterproof phone cases and take photos and videos of you at the beautiful spot?
Their single kayak is worth $44.
There is also a kayak called “Two-person plus,” where a child can be the third passenger, costing $74.
Since only a few know about this, take advantage of the quiet adventure Lakeview Lake offers.
Address: Lakeview Park, Anna, TX 75409, United States
2. Lavon Lake (Secret Island Tour)
How proud would you be if you discovered an island the locals aren’t even aware of?
Yes, you should be proud of yourself when kayaking on Lavon Lake.
With Secret Island Tour, also hosted by North Texas Kayak Experience, you will enjoy the accommodation of a professional tour guide, which you need because it is 3-hour kayaking on a 3-mile route.
As you pass by jaw-dropping secret coves, it will give you an oceanic experience.
You will also enjoy a campfire meal because the package includes their Snacklebox Lunch, mimosas, and ranch water.
Even if this looks challenging, beginners and experts will relish the Secret Island Tour.
The single kayak is worth $97, and the “Two-person plus” costs $169.
It may be costly, but it’s definitely worth the experience!
Address: Little Ridge Park Rd Wylie, TX 75173, United States
3. Hickory Creek (Three Bridges Float)
You might fall in love with this place and never want to leave because of its wonderful community and exciting activities.
The Three Bridges Float kayaking tour offered by North Texas Kayak Experience will captivate your heart through its visual appeal.
It’s also rich in wildlife, so you will learn a lot by observing the amazing life of creatures you don’t usually encounter.
Don’t be intimidated by the 6-mile course with a 3-hour duration; they labeled its difficulty “easy” for a reason.
The beginning of the tour will already amaze you as you start paddling beneath the Goatman’s Bridge (Old Alton Bridge).
The story of the historic Goatman’s Bridge is interesting, especially if you are into ghost lore.
For the Three Bridges Float tour, they only offer single kayaks, which cost $79 each.
If you are a fan of historical sights, you should try this long but relaxing tour.
Address: Old Alton Bridge, Lantana, TX 76226, United States
4. Lake Conroe (Sunset Beauty)
Lake Conroe is a big lake that spans over 22,000 acres.
It is famous for offering other water adventures, such as jet-skiing, but it can also make a fun experience for kayakers.
A sunset view is one of the most beautiful things it can give you.
If you would like to reserve a spot on one of their kayaking tours at the lake, the North Lake Conroe Paddling Co. is the company to contact.
They only offer one type of kayak for Lake Conroe, which is the sit-on-top, and they take pride in the quality of their boats.
In addition to offering group rental packages, they also provide youth kayaks, fishing kayaks, and touring kayaks.
They initially offer a 2-hour rental, and the fees vary according to the kayak and the purpose of riding.
For touring, the kayak costs $29.99 for 2 hours; for recreation, the kayak costs the same.
A kid’s kayak is worth $24.99, and a tandem kayak is $44.99.
They also have varying price increments according to the additional hours of your rental.
Address: 13988 Calvary Rd, Willis, TX 77318, United States
Also see our article on Lakes in Texas.
Kayaking in East Texas
1. Caddo Lake (Carter’s Chute Trail)
Caddo Lake is made up of a river called the Big Cypress Bayou and some quagmire.
There, you’ll see the beautiful home of a wide variety of plant and animal life.
If you want this type of tour, something that evokes your environmental curiosity, Texas Parks and Wildlife Carter’s Chute Paddling Trail is where you can check available tours and rentals.
The Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area is where Carter’s Chute Trail begins; it is fun because you will have to follow arrow signs on trees.
Usually, it is a 7.6-mile roundtrip with a float time of 3-4 hours; but you can check with Riverbend Outfitters rentals for other details.
A single kayak for a full-day rental costs $50, and the tandem one costs $75.
Address: 245 Park Rd 2, Karnack, TX 75661, United States
2. Trinity River (Family Fishing Fun)
Kayak fishing on the Trinity River is a prevalent activity because of its breathtaking scenery and the fish that live in it.
If you want to do something fun with your family and friends, there are many ways to do so.
You can book a kayaking tour with Trinity River Kayak Co. for river kayak fishing.
Residents have enjoyed this since its beginnings as a riverside bait shop.
Expect that there are many fish species in the Trinity River; that means you have plenty to catch.
The company does not display the rates on its website, but it has both single and tandem kayaks.
You may check the rates by contacting them or dropping by their location.
It’s time to learn how to fish while having fun with your loved ones!
Address: 1601 E. Sandy, Lake Rd, Coppell, TX 75019, United States
Also see our article on Bowling in Texas.
Kayaking in Dallas, Texas
1. White Rock Lake (Tranquil & Noisy-Free)
White Rock Lake kayaking will provide you with a tranquil, relaxed paddling experience.
That’s what you’ve been craving, right?
It is a no-motor zone, so it’s not too noisy and crowded.
You will surely take delight in peace, which is always the priority of the folks who maintain and manage the area.
You can check with White Rock Paddle Company, the former kayak rental service for White Rock Lake, for available kayaks they’re selling.
Unfortunately, they are closed now, but you can always check nearby rental services.
White Rock Lake is an excellent location for novice paddlers to learn the basics of kayaking because they can focus there and won’t feel embarrassed.
If you want to experience quiet and chill kayaking in Dallas, go to this lake that people consider a gem.
Address: White Rock Lake, Dallas, TX, United States
2. Joe Pool Lake (Flora & Fauna Exploration)
Joe Pool swiftly established itself as one of the most well-liked destinations for locals living in Dallas in the late 80s.
Today, paddling out onto Joe Pool Lake will give you an opportunity to discover a diverse array of beautiful creatures—animals and plants alike—while exploring this one-of-a-kind destination.
If you are into trees and greenery, this lake will be your favorite kayaking spot.
You will surely come back for more flora and fauna discoveries.
Anyway, this is great for those with previous kayaking experience.
To rent kayaks, check with Loyd Park.
A half-day kayak costs $30, and a full-day kayak costs $45.
Prices can change at any time.
Contact the company directly to know how much everything costs right now.
Joe Pool Lake is calling your name—go out and enjoy it!
Address: 3401 Ragland Rd, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, USA
3. Grapevine Lake (Historic & Thrilling)
People go to Lake Grapevine for a variety of activities, including sailing, water skiing, fishing, and camping.
Kayaking on it is an experience that is rich in both history and thrills.
Over the years, Grapevine Lake has maintained its natural beauty, which includes forests and rocky coasts.
You will see incredible fossils that are found in the rocks.
Fossils are significant to learn because they give you a glimpse of history and the things that once lived here on Earth.
The ideal time for kayaking there is in the morning because it is less crowded at that time.
You can rent kayaks from Lonestar Adventure Sports; they offer single and double sit-on-top kayaks.
The single kayak starts at $22 per hour, while the double kayak starts at $32.
People love how the staff is accommodating and helpful; it is also pretty easy to book on their website.
Address: 636 S. Main Street, Grapevine, TX 76051, United States
Also see our article on Ziplining in Texas.
Kayaking in San Antonio, Texas
1. Riverwalk (Mission Kayak Rentals)
It is considered to be one of the liveliest tourist destinations in the entirety of the state of Texas.
Well, you can see it in the picture.
With its beautiful architecture along the river, nostalgia and a dreamy feeling will warmly consume you.
You’ll have a great time paddling your kayak around the River Walk’s Museum Reach, the most recommended kayaking area there.
They refer to this river as the “Venice of America.”
Mission Kayak offers kayak rentals so that you can enjoy the fantastic yet easy 2-mile flat-water kayak tour.
That tour is very suitable for beginners.
A single kayak costs $35 per hour; the double kayak costs $60 per hour.
The tour duration is approximately 1-2 hours; there is no restroom at the location, so make sure to empty your bladder before riding.
Address: Camden St & Newell Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215, United States
2. San Marcos River (Texas Canoes & Kayaks)
You can find an extraordinary chance to kayak on the San Marcos River.
At 75 miles in length, it makes it one of the greatest spring-fed rivers in the USA.
The river itself is home to a number of species that are at risk of extinction, so your experience there will be remarkable.
If you want to kayak in the San Marcos area, Texas Canoes & Kayaks offers rental kayaks and takes people out on trips. They have excellent, reliable service and high-quality paddling gear.
The tour around the river takes 4 hours at 6.5 miles and begins in San Marcos City Park.
If you’re up for an adventure of paddling out on the clear waters, this is your sign.
Check Texas Canoes & Kayaks website or contact them to know their rates.
Address: 203 FM1979, Martindale, TX 78655, United States
3. Comal River (Short & Unique)
The Comal River is the shortest river that you are able to explore in the state of Texas.
It is 2.5 miles long and goes through the whole city of New Braunfels.
The Comal River’s short stretch provides an excellent choice for those who don’t have enough time to explore and for beginners.
Residents here love to do river tubing.
In fact, it’s what you will see more than kayaking.
With that, Comal River gives the challenge to novice kayakers who are interested in putting their skills to the test.
It’s like being the unique one among the crowd.
Kayaking is not very common at Comal River, but you can check the website Comal Tubes; they might help you find the ideal kayaks for the river.
Address: Comal River, New Braunfels, TX 78130, United States
4. Canyon Lake (Nature’s Jewel)
This lake is known as the “Jewel of Texas Hill Country” because everywhere you go, you’ll find adventure, beautiful scenery, and wild animals.
Kayaking here will let you enjoy San Antonio’s natural beauty.
Most people can only go to the northern end of Canyon Lake because it is so big.
However, its protected area is an excellent location for beginners to learn how to kayak because of the privacy.
If you’re an expert, you will still appreciate the peace and the calm waters.
Ready to paddle out on this beautiful lake?
Canyon Lake Adventures offer paddle board rentals; with their service, you can rent a kayak, paddle, life jacket, and basic instructions for only $50 for up to three hours or $75 for the whole day per kayak.
Address: Canyon Lake, TX 78133, United States
Also see our article on Hiking Trails in Texas.
Kayaking in Beaumont, Texas
1. Village Creek State Park (Wildlife Paradise)
The park is located in the Big Thicket National Preserve.
Thus, you will see the cypress swamps, water tupelo, and different kinds of trees.
There is also a lot of wildlife in the park.
Turtles, deer, snakes, lizards, and other animals are thriving at the Village Creek State Park, so if you’re into learning about creatures, you will surely enjoy kayaking here.
There are several places to get on and off this 21-mile trail; you just have to pay an admission fee.
The admission fee for adults is $3, and there is no charge for children younger than 12.
It’s affordable, so don’t let yourself miss out on this awesome kayaking spot!
If you have your own kayak and love wildlife, this is the best place to explore in Beaumont.
Address: 8854 Park Rd. 74, Lumberton, TX 77657, United States
2. Cooks Lake (Moss-Draped Slough)
The Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail goes through Big Thicket National Preserve’s “moss-draped cypress-tupelo slough.”
It’s a 5-mile tour.
The path travels upstream along the water’s surface.
You will feel that it is relatively quiet and still.
A unique view awaits you after reaching the area where the Neches River and Pine Island Bayou meet.
The birds are singing, and the trees are dancing.
What more can you ask for?
The whole trail completes in about two hours; however, there are so many things to do in the swamp that it can also keep you busy for a whole day.
That makes it worth the vacation!
You can rent kayaks from Big Thicket Outfitters by contacting them since they do not disclose their rates on their website.
Address: 6790 Bigner Rd, Beaumont, TX 77701
3. Collier’s Ferry (Big Thicket Outfitters)
Here, you will have the opportunity to explore more of the backwater waterways and miles of the Big Thicket National Preserve.
It begins in Collier’s Ferry Park, then works its way up to Lake Bayou.
The kayaking makes a complete round for a total distance of 7 miles.
You relish paddling along one of the hidden backwater streams.
These streams are ecologically rich, stunning preserves.
Many organizations work on preserving its beauty and helping the fauna and flora thrive.
That means that the trail is actually worth the experience.
Big Thicket Outfitters is also the company that can offer you kayak rentals for the Collier’s Ferry – Lake Bayou Paddling Trail.
You can check their website or contact them to inquire about the tour that can give you the best vacation ever.
Address: Collier’s Ferry Park, 5390 Pine Street, Beaumont, TX, United States
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Outdoor Activities, Swimming Pools, and Ice Skating in Texas.
Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Kayaking Spots in Florida and New York.