Best Places to Kayak Near Columbia, IL
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Columbia, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Columbia
1Simpson Park Lake (West)
Standout kayak fishing on Simpson Park Lake
2Peabody River King Wildlife Area boat ramp 1
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
3Simpson Park Lake (East)
A top-rated lake launch on Simpson Park Lake
Flamm City Access
Missouri · 7.9 mi
Frank Holten Main Lake
Illinois · 12.9 mi
Simpson Park Lake (East)
Missouri · 16.6 mi
Simpson Park Lake (West)
Missouri · 17.0 mi
Meramec Landing (Valley Park)
Missouri · 17.2 mi
Horseshoe Lake - Madison
Illinois · 18.8 mi
Horseshoe Lake - Madison
Illinois · 19.9 mi
Peabody River King Wildlife Area boat ramp 1
Illinois · 20.5 mi
Truman Access
Missouri · 20.7 mi
Eagle Lake
Illinois · 20.8 mi
Public Boat Ramp
Illinois · 20.8 mi
Route 66 State Park Access
Missouri · 21.6 mi
Baldwin Lake
Illinois · 22.5 mi
Fayetteville Public Boat Ramp
Illinois · 22.6 mi
Creve Coeur Park Lake #3
Missouri · 24.5 mi
Creve Coeur Park Lake #2
Missouri · 24.6 mi
Allenton Access
Missouri · 24.9 mi
Spanish Lake
Missouri · 25.2 mi
Creve Coeur Park Lake #1
Missouri · 25.4 mi
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
Missouri · 25.4 mi
Sunfish Lake
Missouri · 25.5 mi
Columbia Bottom Conservation Area
Missouri · 27.2 mi
Pacific Palisades Conservation Area
Missouri · 27.9 mi
Blanchette Landing Access
Missouri · 28.9 mi
Pelican Island Access
Missouri · 29.8 mi
World Shooting Complex - Derby Lake
Illinois · 30.1 mi
Catawissa Conservation Area
Missouri · 30.6 mi
Lincoln Shields Recreation Area
Missouri · 31.0 mi
Brown's Ford Access
Missouri · 31.2 mi
Mississippi River Boat Ramp
Illinois · 31.3 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Columbia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Columbia, IL?
Top picks near Columbia include Simpson Park Lake (West), Peabody River King Wildlife Area boat ramp 1, Simpson Park Lake (East). In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers.
What types of paddling can I do near Columbia?
Near Columbia 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 Columbia?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Columbia are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.