Best Places to Kayak Near Cortez, CO

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

14 nearby7 Reservoirs4 Creeks2 Lakes
← All paddling in Colorado

Top Picks Near Cortez

a large body of water surrounded by mountains1

Lake Farmington

Standout kayak fishing on the lake

LakeBeginner47 mi away
a large body of water surrounded by mountains2

Morgan Lake

Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding

LakeBeginner45 mi away
a large body of water surrounded by a forest3

Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Just 9 miles from Cortez — the closest quality launch

ReservoirBeginner9 mi away
a large body of water surrounded by a forest

Totten Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 3.1 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a large body of water surrounded by a forest

Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 9.2 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
snow covered mountains near body of water during daytime

Puett Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 10.4 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a lake with mountains in the background

Summit Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 11.8 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water with a mountain in the background

Joe Moore Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 15.3 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a lake with mountains in the background

Mancos State Park

Colorado · 17.4 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
brown rocky mountain with river

Groundhog Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 34.2 mi

CreekKayakingCanoeingBeginner
snow covered mountains near body of water during daytime

Pastorius Reservoir State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 43.9 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a river running through a canyon surrounded by rocks

Haviland Lake State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 44.2 mi

CreekKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A stream flows through a green, grassy area.

Dan Noble State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 44.4 mi

CreekKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Clear water flowing over colorful river rocks

Dan Noble State Wildlife Area

Colorado · 45.0 mi

CreekKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a large body of water surrounded by mountains

Morgan Lake

New Mexico · 45.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a large body of water surrounded by mountains

Lake Farmington

New Mexico · 46.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Kayakers paddling through a dramatic desert canyon at sunset

Animas River

New Mexico · 47.6 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Cortez.

Lewis, CO8 miDolores, CO10 miMesa Verde National Park, CO10 miTowaoc, CO13 miYellow Jacket, CO15 miMancos, CO16 miPleasant View, CO20 miCahone, CO23 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Top picks near Cortez include Lake Farmington, Morgan Lake, Narraguinnep Reservoir State Wildlife Area. In total there are 14 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on reservoirs, creeks, lakes.

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.