Best Places to Kayak Near Des Moines, IA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Des Moines, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Des Moines
Birdland Park
Iowa · 0.7 mi
Prospect Park
Iowa · 1.9 mi
Des Moines Water Works Park
Iowa · 3.3 mi
Pleasant Hill Boat Ramp
Iowa · 5.6 mi
Sycamore Access
Iowa · 6.4 mi
Yellow Banks Access
Iowa · 7.9 mi
Lakeview High Water
Iowa · 8.6 mi
Lakeview Main A
Iowa · 8.8 mi
Lakeview Main B
Iowa · 8.8 mi
Cherry Glen - East
Iowa · 9.8 mi
Cherry Glen - West
Iowa · 9.9 mi
Sandpiper
Iowa · 11.4 mi
Saylorville Marina Access
Iowa · 11.7 mi
Southwest Saylorville
Iowa · 13.0 mi
Middle River Access
Iowa · 13.5 mi
Ford Access
Iowa · 13.8 mi
Lincoln Access
Iowa · 14.8 mi
Lewis A. Jester Park
Iowa · 15.1 mi
Runnells Access
Iowa · 15.1 mi
Big Creek East
Iowa · 15.6 mi
Big Creek West
Iowa · 15.8 mi
Big Creek Wildlife Area
Iowa · 16.9 mi
Big Creek Wildlife Area
Iowa · 17.9 mi
Badger Creek Recreation Area
Iowa · 17.9 mi
Puckerbrush Access
Iowa · 17.9 mi
Badger Creek Recreation Area
Iowa · 18.1 mi
Bennington Bridge
Iowa · 19.0 mi
red rock - usacoe
Iowa · 19.9 mi
Sub-1 Ramp
Iowa · 21.3 mi
Kinnick-Feller Riverside Park
Iowa · 21.4 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Des Moines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Des Moines, IA?
Top picks near Des Moines include Sandpiper, Cherry Glen - East, Cherry Glen - West. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers, creeks.
What types of paddling can I do near Des Moines?
Near Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Des Moines are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.