Best Places to Kayak Near Mount Vernon, IA
30 public launch points within 50 miles of Mount Vernon, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.
Top Picks Near Mount Vernon
1Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Standout kayak fishing on Lake McBride
2Lake McBride Northshore
Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding
Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Just 11 miles from Mount Vernon — the closest quality launch
Palisades-Kepler St. Park
Iowa · 4.2 mi
Upper Palisades Access
Iowa · 4.5 mi
Sutliff Access
Iowa · 6.4 mi
River Road
Iowa · 9.0 mi
Lou's Area Access
Iowa · 10.1 mi

Lake McBride Northshore
Iowa · 10.4 mi
Lake McBride Sailboat Road
Iowa · 10.8 mi

Cottage Reserve Road Extension
Iowa · 10.9 mi
Otis Road Access
Iowa · 11.2 mi
Cottage Reserve Road Northeast
Iowa · 11.4 mi
Sandy Beach
Iowa · 11.6 mi
Anglers Point
Iowa · 11.6 mi
Jolly Rogers
Iowa · 11.9 mi
Lake Macbride State Park
Iowa · 12.1 mi

muskrat slough wildlife area
Iowa · 12.1 mi
Mehaffey Bridge
Iowa · 12.9 mi
Stone City
Iowa · 13.2 mi
Wapsipinicon State Park Boat Ramp
Iowa · 13.7 mi
Anamosa Boat Ramp
Iowa · 13.8 mi
Sugar Bottom
Iowa · 13.8 mi
Curtis Bridge
Iowa · 14.0 mi

Ridge Road
Iowa · 14.1 mi
Matsell Bridge
Iowa · 14.2 mi
Newport Mills
Iowa · 14.2 mi
Mid River
Iowa · 14.3 mi
Mohawk Park
Iowa · 14.4 mi

Manhattan - Robbins Lake
Iowa · 14.5 mi
Gs Marina
Iowa · 14.8 mi
West Overlook
Iowa · 14.8 mi
Coralville Dam Boat Access
Iowa · 15.1 mi
Paddling Near Other Cities
Widen your search to towns within an hour of Mount Vernon.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to kayak near Mount Vernon, IA?
Top picks near Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon?
Near Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon?
Yes! Most public boat ramps near Mount Vernon are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.