Updated October 27, 2022
Popularly called the “City of Oaks” due to the sheer number of oak trees lining its streets, Raleigh is a gem of a city known for its quality educational institutes and public museums. However, there are also plenty of outdoor sports to try here, such as kayaking in the city’s many beautiful waterways. Raleigh has over 100 man-made lakes, along with the Neuse River and Cape Fear River, so there are no shortage of places to go paddling. We have compiled this list of the top 8 spots for kayaking in Raleigh so you can enjoy a relaxing and active day out on the water.
Want more outdoors activities in Raleigh?
- 9 Amazing Spots to Go Snowboarding or Skiing Near Raleigh
- 21 Jaw-Dropping Hikes Near Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill
Best Kayaking Spots in Raleigh, NC
Lake Raleigh
- Location: NCSU’s Centennial Campus
- Rentals available: no
A 75-acre picturesque lake on the southern side of North Carolina State University’s Centennial Campus, Lake Raleigh is a free kayaking spot that’s popular among both students and city dwellers. You can take your kayak here and launch at the boat ramp near the parking lot, or try out a different outdoor activity available, like hiking or disc golf. Being only 3 miles from downtown Raleigh, this lake is the perfect nature escape close to home.
Harris Lake County Park
- Location: Southwest Raleigh
- Rentals available: no
If you’re on the southwest side of Raleigh and in need of a water adventure, we recommend visiting Harris Lake County Park. This 680-acre park is located on the peninsula of Harris Lake, and provides a beautiful and tranquil experience for all your paddling adventures. Apart from kayaking on the lake, you’ll also see people enjoying picnics, riding mountain bikes, and jogging along the beautiful trails. Keep in mind that there are no rentals available here, so you’ll have to bring your own kayak.
Lake Johnson Park
- Location: West Raleigh
- Rentals available: yes
Lake Johnson Park is a popular place for nearby residents to enjoy time outside, whether it’s jogging, dog walking, picnicking, or kayaking. The park has a beautiful 150-acre lake that is loved by paddlers during the summer months, thanks to the calm water and minimal wind. For new kayakers, there’s an awesome summer program called the Open Paddle Program, which is a 1.5 hour session that involves learning about the equipment before going kayaking in a designated area. It’s great for those who want a little more guidance and knowledge prior to getting in the water!
Lake Wheeler Park
- Location: Southwest Raleigh
- Rentals available: yes
Lake Wheeler was originally built in 1956 to serve as a water supply source for the city. Since then, it has gone through multiple expansions, and is now the primary source of water for Raleigh. Although its initial purpose was for function, it has become a favorite spot for locals to relax in nature. Hop in your kayak and explore this stunning 650 acre lake, taking in the peaceful sounds of the outdoors as you leave the city far behind. The park offers kayak rentals in the summer, or you can launch your own for a small fee.
Lake Crabtree County Park
- Location: Wake County
- Rentals available: yes
Being Wake County’s first recreational park, Lake Crabtree has a lot of memories tied to it, and Carolinian’s keep coming here to create more. The massive 520-acre lake is ideal for watersports, whether you want to launch your own kayak/canoe or rent from the park. Just be sure to paddle counter-clockwise once you’re in the water. After a long day of paddling, we recommend laying out a blanket and having a picnic in the park to soak up the sunset. You might even be able to catch sight of a bald eagle! This park also offers hiking and cycling trails along with a fishing area for more outdoor fun.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area- Beaverdam access point
- Location: Wake County
- Rentals available: no
If you happen to be on the north side of Raleigh, we recommend visiting one of the largest recreational spots in the state, the Falls Lake State Recreation Area. It is a 12,000-acre reservoir on the Neuse River that you can access from seven different points, our favorite being the popular Beaverdam point. Here you’ll find a designated lake area for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddle boards, perfect for those who want to get some physical activity in. Swimmers can also take a dip at the sandy beach to cool off on a hot summer’s day. You’ll feel far detached from the noisy city once you enter this serene paradise.
Neuse River Canoe Trail
- Location: throughout NC
- Rentals available: yes
The Neuse River is North Carolina’s largest river that runs entirely within its borders, starting in the north and flowing southeast to Pamlico Sound. Its a great spot to go kayaking because the city parks department has created a paddling trail by connecting several properties along the river, making it easily accessible no matter where you are in the city. The Neuse River Canoe Trail is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful floating experience in the cool shade of trees.
Cape Fear River
- Location: central NC
- Rentals available: yes
If you’re looking for a close day trip from Raleigh, Cape Fear River is the perfect option. Located at about 2-hours from Raleigh, this wide river offers both calm water for casual recreation and adrenaline-pumping Class II rapids for whitewater kayakers. It’s located near Fayetteville, Durham, and Charlotte NC, so you’ll see families and other solo adventurers in the river tubing, paddle boarding, or canoeing. When you’re done kayaking here, you can lounge in the Rock Garden or check out the 80-acre Botanical Garden that’s only a short drive away from the river.
