Best Places to Kayak Near Durham, CA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Durham, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Durham
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)
Just 12 miles from Durham — the closest quality launch
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 9.0 mi
Ord Bend Park
California · 10.8 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 11.1 mi
Scotty's Landing
California · 11.1 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 11.7 mi
Thermalito Afterbay (Monument Hill Boat)
California · 12.2 mi
Thermalito Afterbay
California · 12.2 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Thermalito Forebay
California · 12.8 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Lime Saddle
California · 12.8 mi
North Forebay Aquatic Center
California · 13.2 mi
Thermalito Forebay North
California · 13.2 mi
Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park
California · 13.2 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area (West Park Riverbend )
California · 14.8 mi
Feather River
California · 15.4 mi
Butte City
California · 16.3 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area -Spillway
California · 17.3 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area - Wyke Island
California · 19.2 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area -Loafer Creek
California · 19.8 mi
Lake Oroville State Recreation Area (Enterprise Area)
California · 24.2 mi
Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area
California · 24.4 mi
Live Oak Riverfront Park
California · 26.8 mi
Black Butte Lake (Buttes)
California · 31.3 mi
Black Butte Lake (Eagle Pass)
California · 31.4 mi
Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area
California · 31.5 mi
Bert's Steelhead Marina
California · 31.6 mi
Wards Boat Landing
California · 31.9 mi
Mill Creek
California · 32.0 mi
Black Butte Lake (Buckhorn Boat & Marina)
California · 32.6 mi
Collins Lake Recreation Area
California · 32.9 mi
Haskins Valley P.G. & E. Campground
California · 36.1 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Durham.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Durham, CA?
Top picks near Durham 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 Durham?
Near Durham 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 Durham?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Durham are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.