Best Places to Kayak Near Russell, IA

30 public launch points within 50 miles of Russell, ranked by water conditions, access, and amenities.

30 nearby20 Lakes10 Rivers
← All paddling in Iowa

Top Picks Near Russell

a small boat in the middle of a body of water1

Bobwhite Lake State Park

Standout kayak fishing on Bobwhite Lake

LakeBeginner20 mi away
a small boat in the middle of a body of water2

Red Haw Lake - East

Calm, sheltered water that's ideal for beginners and paddle boarding

LakeBeginner6 mi away
a small boat in the middle of a body of water3

Red Haw Lake - West

Just 6 miles from Russell — the closest quality launch

LakeBeginner6 mi away
A river running through a lush green forest

Colyn Wildlife Area

Iowa · 1.7 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 3.2 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 5.3 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Lake Morris

Iowa · 6.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Red Haw Lake - East

Iowa · 6.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Lake Ellis

Iowa · 6.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Red Haw Lake - West

Iowa · 6.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 7.5 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 8.0 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 9.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 9.7 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 9.9 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 10.6 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 12.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 13.8 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 14.1 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 14.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 15.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 16.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 16.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 16.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Rathbun Wildlife Management Area

Iowa · 17.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Outlet Park

Iowa · 17.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Bobwhite Lake State Park

Iowa · 19.6 mi

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

Miami Lake Wildlife Area

Iowa · 21.2 mi

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

Miami Lake Wildlife Area

Iowa · 21.2 mi

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

Sundown Lake

Iowa · 24.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Sharon Bluffs State Park

Iowa · 25.1 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A river running through a lush green forest

Eveland Access

Iowa · 30.5 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a small boat in the middle of a body of water

Red Rock Dam

Iowa · 30.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Russell.

Millerton, IA8 miChariton, IA8 miMelrose, IA9 miWilliamson, IA12 miPromise City, IA13 miPlano, IA14 miCorydon, IA15 miDerby, IA16 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Russell, IA?

Top picks near Russell include Bobwhite Lake State Park, Red Haw Lake - East, Red Haw Lake - West. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers.

What types of paddling can I do near Russell?

Near Russell 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 Russell?

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