Best Places to Kayak Near Ely, IA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Ely, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Ely
1Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Standout kayak fishing on Lake McBride
2Lake McBride Northshore
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
3Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Just 6 miles from Ely — the closest quality launch
Upper Palisades Access
Iowa · 3.4 mi
Palisades-Kepler St. Park
Iowa · 3.9 mi
Lou's Area Access
Iowa · 4.3 mi
River Road
Iowa · 4.4 mi
Sandy Beach
Iowa · 5.6 mi
Otis Road Access
Iowa · 5.8 mi
Lake McBride Northshore
Iowa · 5.9 mi
Jolly Rogers
Iowa · 6.2 mi
Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Iowa · 6.3 mi
Cottage Reserve Road Northeast
Iowa · 6.8 mi
Lake Macbride State Park
Iowa · 6.9 mi
Curtis Bridge
Iowa · 7.1 mi
Anglers Point
Iowa · 7.2 mi
Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Iowa · 7.3 mi
Mid River
Iowa · 7.7 mi
Mehaffey Bridge
Iowa · 8.4 mi
Sugar Bottom
Iowa · 9.6 mi
Mohawk Park
Iowa · 9.7 mi
Manhattan - Robbins Lake
Iowa · 9.7 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 10.0 mi
Sutliff Access
Iowa · 10.1 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 10.1 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 10.5 mi
West Overlook
Iowa · 11.6 mi
Seminole Valley
Iowa · 11.9 mi
Coralville Dam Boat Access
Iowa · 11.9 mi
Gs Marina
Iowa · 11.9 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 11.9 mi
Trailwater East
Iowa · 12.2 mi
Hawkeye Wildlife Area
Iowa · 13.0 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Ely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Ely, IA?
Top picks near Ely include Cottage Reserve Road Extension, Lake McBride Northshore, Lake McBride Sailboat Road. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers.
What types of paddling can I do near Ely?
Near Ely 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 Ely?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Ely are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.