Best Places to Kayak Near Cedar Rapids, IA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Cedar Rapids, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Cedar Rapids
1Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Standout kayak fishing on Lake McBride
2Lake McBride Northshore
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
3Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Just 13 miles from Cedar Rapids — the closest quality launch
Otis Road Access
Iowa · 1.2 mi
Lou's Area Access
Iowa · 2.6 mi
Mohawk Park
Iowa · 2.7 mi
Manhattan - Robbins Lake
Iowa · 2.7 mi
River Road
Iowa · 3.2 mi
Seminole Valley
Iowa · 5.2 mi
Chain Lakes
Iowa · 8.1 mi
Upper Palisades Access
Iowa · 8.2 mi
Palisades-Kepler St. Park
Iowa · 9.5 mi
Sandy Beach
Iowa · 11.5 mi
Curtis Bridge
Iowa · 11.5 mi
Jolly Rogers
Iowa · 12.2 mi
Mid River
Iowa · 12.5 mi
Lake McBride Northshore
Iowa · 12.5 mi
Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Iowa · 12.8 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 12.9 mi
Lake Macbride State Park
Iowa · 13.0 mi
Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area - Southeast
Iowa · 13.0 mi
Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area - Southwest
Iowa · 13.2 mi
Cottage Reserve Road Northeast
Iowa · 13.2 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 13.3 mi
Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area - Northeast
Iowa · 13.4 mi
Pleasant Creek State Recreational Area - Northwest
Iowa · 13.4 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 13.5 mi
Anglers Point
Iowa · 13.6 mi
Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Iowa · 14.0 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 14.4 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 14.6 mi
Mehaffey Bridge
Iowa · 14.7 mi
North Cedar Natural Area
Iowa · 14.8 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Cedar Rapids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Cedar Rapids, IA?
Top picks near Cedar Rapids include Cottage Reserve Road Extension, Lake McBride Northshore, Lake McBride Sailboat Road. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers.
What types of paddling can I do near Cedar Rapids?
Near Cedar Rapids you'll find opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding. Most locations offer beginner-friendly conditions with public boat ramp access.
Are there free kayak launches near Cedar Rapids?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Cedar Rapids are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.