Best Places to Kayak Near Rapid City, SD

20 public launch points within 50 miles of Rapid City, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

20 nearby19 Lakes1 Reservoir
← All paddling in South Dakota
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Pactola North Public Water Access

South Dakota · 15.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water with rocks and trees around it with Sylvan Lake in the background

Pactola South Public Water Access

South Dakota · 15.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Sheridan South Public Water Access

South Dakota · 15.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Sheridan North Public Water Access

South Dakota · 15.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

New Underwood

South Dakota · 17.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water with rocks and trees around it with Sylvan Lake in the background

Custer State Park - Center

South Dakota · 21.8 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Curlew Lake

South Dakota · 24.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Legion Lake

South Dakota · 25.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Bismark Lake

South Dakota · 25.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Custer State Park - Stockade

South Dakota · 26.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Bear Butte Land Use Area

South Dakota · 29.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Deerfield - Dutchman Public Water Access

South Dakota · 29.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Deerfield - Custer Crossing Public Water Access

South Dakota · 29.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a person standing on a dock in a lake

Iron Creek Public Water Access

South Dakota · 43.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Coldbrook Reservoir Recreation Area

South Dakota · 45.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Kayakers on a peaceful lake surrounded by autumn foliage at sunset

Newell City Pond

South Dakota · 45.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

New Wall

South Dakota · 46.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water with rocks and trees around it with Sylvan Lake in the background

Old Wall

South Dakota · 47.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
boat floating towards rocky island

Cottonwood Springs

South Dakota · 47.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
Kayakers paddling through a dramatic desert canyon at sunset

LAK (Spencer) Reservoir

Wyoming · 48.3 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Rapid City, SD?

Top picks near Rapid City include Old Wall, New Underwood, Coldbrook Reservoir Recreation Area. In total there are 20 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, reservoirs.

What types of paddling can I do near Rapid City?

Near Rapid City 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 Rapid City?

Yes! Most public boat ramps near Rapid City are free to use. Some state parks and recreation areas may charge a small parking or entrance fee.