Best Places to Kayak Near Chico, CA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Chico, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Chico
1North Forebay Aquatic Center
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
2Thermalito Forebay North
Open-water sea kayaking access on Thermalito Forebay-North
3Thermalito Afterbay (Monument Hill Boat)
A top-rated bay launch on Thermalito Afterbay
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 5.8 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 5.9 mi
Scotty's Landing
California · 5.9 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 6.1 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 7.7 mi
Ord Bend Park
California · 11.6 mi
Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area
California · 16.5 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Lime Saddle
California · 16.7 mi
Thermalito Afterbay
California · 20.6 mi
Thermalito Afterbay (Monument Hill Boat)
California · 20.7 mi
North Forebay Aquatic Center
California · 20.8 mi
Thermalito Forebay North
California · 20.8 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Thermalito Forebay
California · 20.9 mi
Butte City
California · 21.5 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area (West Park Riverbend )
California · 22.7 mi
Mill Creek
California · 23.7 mi
Feather River
California · 23.8 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area -Spillway
California · 24.0 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Wyke Island
California · 25.8 mi
Black Butte Lake (Eagle Pass)
California · 26.3 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area -Loafer Creek
California · 26.5 mi
Black Butte Lake (Buttes)
California · 26.7 mi
Black Butte Lake (Buckhorn Boat & Marina)
California · 27.5 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area (Enterprise Area)
California · 30.2 mi
Red Bluff Diversion Dam
California · 33.0 mi
Red Bluff Recreation Area
California · 33.4 mi
River Park
California · 35.0 mi
Live Oak Riverfront Park
California · 35.4 mi
Haskins Valley P.G. & E. Campground
California · 36.5 mi
Sandy Point
California · 36.8 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Chico.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Chico, CA?
Top picks near Chico include North Forebay Aquatic Center, Thermalito Forebay North, Thermalito Afterbay (Monument Hill Boat). In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on rivers, lakes, bays.
What types of paddling can I do near Chico?
Near Chico 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 Chico?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Chico are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.