Best Places to Kayak Near Cortez, CO

30 public launch points within 50 miles of Cortez, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

30 nearby20 Lakes7 Reservoirs3 Creeks
← All paddling in Colorado
a large body of water surrounded by a forest

Totten Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 3.1 mi

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a large body of water surrounded by a forest

Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 9.2 mi

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snow covered mountains near body of water during daytime

Puett Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 10.4 mi

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a lake with mountains in the background

Summit Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 11.8 mi

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a body of water with a mountain in the background

Joe Moore Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 15.3 mi

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a lake with mountains in the background

Mancos State Park

Colorado · 17.4 mi

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Main

Colorado · 17.4 mi

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Yurt 24

Colorado · 17.5 mi

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Yurt 22

Colorado · 17.5 mi

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Park Building

Colorado · 17.5 mi

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West

Colorado · 17.8 mi

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East Lot

Colorado · 25.2 mi

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Blackmer Lot

Colorado · 25.3 mi

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Hunter Check In

Colorado · 25.3 mi

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Restroom

Colorado · 25.4 mi

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Adams Lot

Colorado · 26.3 mi

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Creek Crossing Lot

Colorado · 26.8 mi

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Gas Well Lot

Colorado · 26.9 mi

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Restroom

Colorado · 27.6 mi

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Lower Morrison Lot

Colorado · 27.6 mi

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Middle Mountain Lot

Colorado · 27.7 mi

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Fish Pond Lot

Colorado · 28.2 mi

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Upper Morrison Lot

Colorado · 28.7 mi

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Last Top

Colorado · 29.2 mi

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First Top Lot

Colorado · 29.3 mi

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Cabin Ruin Lot

Colorado · 29.4 mi

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brown rocky mountain with river

Groundhog Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 34.2 mi

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snow covered mountains near body of water during daytime

Pastorius Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 43.9 mi

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a river running through a canyon surrounded by rocks

Haviland Lake State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 44.2 mi

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A stream flows through a green, grassy area.

Dan Noble State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 44.4 mi

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Cortez, CO?

Top picks near Cortez include Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area, Totten Reservoir State Wildlife Area, Mancos State Park. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, reservoirs, creeks.

What types of paddling can I do near Cortez?

Near Cortez 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 Cortez?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Cortez are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.