Best Places to Kayak Near Merced, CA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Merced, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Merced
1Medeiros Boat San Luis Reservoir, O'Neill Forebay
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
2Don Pedro Recreation Area (Moccasin Point)
Standout kayak fishing on Don Pedro Lake
3Don Pedro Recreation Area (Fleming Meadows)
A top-rated lake launch on Don Pedro Lake
Lake Yosemite
California · 5.0 mi
Lake McSwain Marina and Recreation Area
California · 17.4 mi
Berenda Reservoir
California · 19.5 mi
Lake McClure - McClure Point
California · 23.3 mi
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area (Tuolumne River Access)
California · 23.4 mi
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
California · 23.7 mi
Turlock Lake State Recreation Area
California · 23.7 mi
Basso Bridge
California · 24.0 mi
Lake McClure - Barrett Cove
California · 25.3 mi
Lake McClure Marina- Barrett Cove
California · 25.7 mi
Great Valley Grasslands State Park
California · 25.7 mi
Eastman Lake
California · 26.8 mi
Modesto Reservoir (Main)
California · 27.2 mi
Modesto Reservoir (West)
California · 27.7 mi
Don Pedro Recreation Area (Blue Oaks)
California · 27.8 mi
Bagby Recreation Area
California · 27.9 mi
Don Pedro Recreation Area (Don Pedro Marina)
California · 27.9 mi
Don Pedro Recreation Area (Fleming Meadows)
California · 27.9 mi
Horseshoe Bend Launch Ramp
California · 29.9 mi
Hensley Lake Recreation Area
California · 33.8 mi
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area - Los Banos Creek
California · 33.8 mi
Medeiros Boat San Luis Reservoir, O'Neill Forebay
California · 35.0 mi
Tuolumne River Regional Park BTAF
California · 35.5 mi
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
California · 36.2 mi
Las Palmas - San Joaquin River
California · 36.7 mi
Don Pedro Recreation Area (Moccasin Point)
California · 37.2 mi
Moccasin Point Marina
California · 37.4 mi
Orange Blossom BTAF
California · 37.5 mi
San Luis Reservoir State Recreation Area
California · 39.3 mi
Jacks Resort-Fresno Slough Fishing Access
California · 39.8 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Merced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Merced, CA?
Top picks near Merced include Medeiros Boat San Luis Reservoir, O'Neill Forebay, Don Pedro Recreation Area (Moccasin Point), Don Pedro Recreation Area (Fleming Meadows). In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, reservoirs, rivers.
What types of paddling can I do near Merced?
Near Merced 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 Merced?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Merced are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.