Texas is a big state with a lot to offer, especially when it comes to the great outdoors. If you’re looking for the best parks to go kayaking, you’ve come to the right place.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best parks in Texas for kayakers of all skill levels. So, whether you’re a beginner kayaker or more experienced, there’s sure to be a park that’s perfect for you.
Best places to kayak in Texas:
- Estero Llano Grande State Park
- Big Bend National Park
- Brazos Bend State Park
- Guadalupe River State Park
- Hill Country State Natural Area
- Colorado Bend State Park
- Caddo Lake State Park
- Lake Livingston State Park
- Palmetto State Park
- Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Estero Llano Grande State Park
This park is located in South Texas and offers paddlers access to over 13 miles of waterways.
The waterways wind through tall grasses and provide paddlers with a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators.
Big Bend National Park
Paddlers of all skill levels will find something to love at Big Bend National Park. With over 150 miles of river, the park offers ample opportunities for exploration.
Be sure to put in at Santa Elena Canyon for a truly unforgettable experience.
Brazos Bend State Park
Brazos Bend State Park is home to 40 miles of trails and some of the best birdwatching in Texas.
In addition, the park’s seven lakes offer ample opportunities for fishing, canoeing, camping and, of course, kayaking.
This park is located in Southeast Texas and offers paddlers access to over 40 miles of waterways, winding through wetlands and provide paddlers with a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including birds, alligators, and snakes.
Guadalupe River State Park
This park is located in Central Texas and offers paddlers access to over 30 miles of riverfront. The riverfront provides paddlers with stunning views of rolling hills and lush vegetation.
Pedernales Falls State Park
This park is located in Central Texas and offers paddlers access to over 20 miles of riverfront. The riverfront provides paddlers with stunning views of rolling hills and rugged limestone cliffs.
Tube, canoe or kayak the river. Paddlers can put in at the swimming area or Trammell’s Crossing Trail. For your safety (and due to occasional flash flooding) the park does not allow put-ins or take-outs in the Pedernales Falls area.
Colorado Bend State Park
This park boasts 32 miles of hiking trails and over 17 miles of waterways, making it a true paradise for outdoors enthusiasts.
In addition to being a great place to hike and fish, the park’s Gorman Falls are well worth the effort it takes to reach them by kayak.
Caddo Lake State Park
Caddo Lake is one of the only natural lakes in Texas and is perfect for a leisurely paddle.
The lake is dotted with small islands and is surrounded by cypress trees, giving it a truly unique atmosphere.
Given that I’m from Louisiana, this park and all its mossy cypress trees holds a special place in my heart!
Lake Livingston State Park
This park is located in East Texas and offers paddlers access to over 90 miles of lakefront. The lakefront provides paddlers with stunning views of pine forests and cypress-lined shores.
Palmetto State Park
Palmetto State Park on the San Marcos River is a great place to cool off on a hot Texas day.
The river here is slow-moving, making it ideal for beginners, but experienced kayakers can explore one of the park’s many channels or head out onto Gonzales Lake if they want more of a challenge.
Ray Roberts Lake State Park
This park is located in North Texas and offers paddlers access to over 30 miles of lakefront. The lakefront provides paddlers with stunning views of woodlands, prairies, and hillsides.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, these kayaking spots in Texas are sure to give you an adventure. So get out there and explore what our great state has to offer!
