Updated October 27, 2022
Thanks to Sacramento’s many sunny days (over 250 a year!), it is the perfect place to spend time outside and soak up the rays. Outdoor lovers will have plenty of places to explore, as the city is located right by the American and Sacramento Rivers and is only a short drive from the Sierra Nevada mountains. If you love paddling, we’ve created a guide to the 9 best spots for kayaking in Sacramento so you can escape the city whenever you want. We’ve even included several whitewater kayaking options for our adrenaline junkies!
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Best Spots for Kayaking in Sacramento:
American River, CA
- Type of Kayaking: whitewater
- Open Season: all year round
The American River, one of California’s largest, is a dream come true for any paddler, but especially whitewater kayakers. The river runs through the heart of Sacramento city, so it’s the perfect nature spot for all our city dwellers. You can either take a relaxing paddle in the calmer sections or go whitewater kayaking in the rapids, but make sure to go with an experienced guide if you’re new at it! The river’s forks provide a variety of kayaking opportunities, so you can create whatever kind of paddling excursion you want.
The South Fork of the American River, CA
- Type of Kayaking: whitewater
- Open Season: all year round
Popular for whitewater kayaking during the summer and spring, the South Fork on the American River is a must visit for thrill seekers. Its Class III rapids have fun names like ‘Meat Grinder’ and ‘Troublemaker,’ enticing whitewater kayakers to hop in and ride the waves. The Chili Bar Rapid is an exciting playground for top-notch paddlers, bringing experienced kayakers from all over the world to try it out.
The North Fork of the American River, CA
- Type of Kayaking: whitewater
- Open Season: April to June
The North Fork of the American River is for daredevils who have experience in Class IV and Class V whitewater kayaking. The renowned ‘Generation Gap’ is the most elevated and difficult run that offers 12 miles of Class V whitewater. It’s also called the ‘wonderland of whitewater’ by expert rafters and kayakers because of the crystal clear water, breathtaking views, and remote location. The most optimal season for whitewater kayaking and rafting here is from April to June, as the free-flowing water is only a trickle in the summer and fall.
Sacramento River, CA
- Type of Kayaking: Flatwater
- Open Season: All year round
If the thrill of whitewater kayaking is too much and you want something a little more relaxing, the Sacramento River is the place to be. It is California’s largest river where you can experience beautiful wildlife and lush green trees while lazily paddling your kayak. Sighting animals such as otters, deer, foxes, and beavers is not a rare occurrence, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled. We recommend paddling along the 33-mile stretch from Redding to Balls Ferry, as its a popular spot that provides some incredible views.
Lake Natoma, CA
- Type of Kayaking: Flatwater
- Open Season: All year round
Also known as the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, Lake Natoma is another fantastic option for kayaking in Sacramento. They rent out a variety of watercraft here including kayaks, so visitors can take in the beauty of nature on the water. Make sure to keep an eye out overhead, as you’ll see various species of exotic birds flying over the lake. Because of its popularity, it can get crowded in the summer, so make sure to come early in the morning or on a weekday if you want fewer people.
Folsom Lake, CA
- Type of Kayaking: flatwater
Located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada’s, Folsom Lake offers stunning crystal clear water and a variety of water sports. Because of its proximity to Sacramento, it has become the go-to playground for water lovers to spend their weekends. Whether you want to go kayaking, rafting, canoeing, or try out another aquatic sport, this lake has it all. For our engineers and history buffs, you can visit the historic ‘Folsom Powerhouse,’ which was built in 1895 and signified a huge advance in commercial electricity.
Jenkinson Lake, CA
- Type of Kayaking: Flatwater
- Open Season: All year round
For those wanting to combine a day of kayaking with other outdoor adventures, Jenkinson Lake is the place to be. Here you’ll find locals doing numerous different outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and sunbathing at the sandy beach. The stunning lake is perfect for paddling in, and you’ll feel so at peace that you’ll never want to leave. They unfortunately only rent paddle boards here, so make sure to bring your own kayak!
Slab Creek Reservoir, CA
- Type of Kayaking: Flatwater
- Open Season: All year round
If you’re looking for a quiet place to recharge your batteries, this hidden gem near the South Fork American River is perfect for you. Due to its relatively lesser-known location, Slab Creek Reservoir has no crowds, so you can fully relax and immerse yourself in the peacefulness of nature. Even better, motorized boats aren’t allowed here, so you can gently paddle as you soak in the stillness and silence.
