Best Places to Kayak Near Sterling, ND

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

30 nearby18 Lakes8 Rivers3 Reservoirs
← All paddling in North Dakota

Top Picks Near Sterling

a body of water surrounded by trees and clouds1

Crystal Springs

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

SpringBeginner39 mi away
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Lake Isabel

Standout kayak fishing on the lake

LakeBeginner25 mi away
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Lake Josephine

A top-rated lake launch on the lake

LakeBeginner27 mi away
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McDowell Dam

North Dakota · 17.3 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Oahe

North Dakota · 20.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A stunning sunset over the body of water that carries the name of Devils Lake, North Dakota

Braddock Dam

North Dakota · 22.0 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Cherry Lake

North Dakota · 24.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Missouri River

North Dakota · 24.6 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Oahe

North Dakota · 25.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Isabel

North Dakota · 25.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
green grass field near lake during daytime

Missouri River

North Dakota · 26.2 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Missouri River

North Dakota · 26.4 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Josephine

North Dakota · 26.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Missouri River

North Dakota · 26.6 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Sibley Lake

North Dakota · 27.5 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Oahe

North Dakota · 27.6 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Missouri River

North Dakota · 28.3 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Missouri River

North Dakota · 29.3 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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West Lake Napoleon

North Dakota · 33.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Harmon Lake

North Dakota · 33.3 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Frettim Lake

North Dakota · 34.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Alkaline Lake

North Dakota · 35.0 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Jasper Lake

North Dakota · 36.7 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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New Johns Lake

North Dakota · 36.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
green grass field near lake during daytime

Missouri River

North Dakota · 37.1 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Williams

North Dakota · 37.1 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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New Johns Lake

North Dakota · 37.9 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
A stunning sunset over the body of water that carries the name of Devils Lake, North Dakota

Crown Butte Dam

North Dakota · 38.6 mi

ReservoirKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water surrounded by trees and clouds

Crystal Springs

North Dakota · 39.2 mi

SpringKayakingCanoeingBeginner
green grass field near lake during daytime

Missouri River

North Dakota · 40.9 mi

RiverKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water surrounded by trees and clouds

East Park Lake

North Dakota · 41.2 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
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Lake Oahe

North Dakota · 42.4 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner
a body of water surrounded by trees and clouds

Lake Oahe

North Dakota · 42.8 mi

LakeKayakingCanoeingBeginner

Paddling Near Other Cities

Widen your search to towns within an hour of Sterling.

Driscoll, ND6 miMoffit, ND12 miMenoken, ND12 miSteele, ND16 miBraddock, ND20 miWing, ND21 miKintyre, ND24 miBismarck, ND24 mi

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best places to kayak near Sterling, ND?

Top picks near Sterling include Crystal Springs, Lake Isabel, Lake Josephine. In total there are 30 public launch points within 50 miles, with paddling on lakes, rivers, reservoirs.

What types of paddling can I do near Sterling?

Near Sterling 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 Sterling?

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