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Kayaking is fun, peaceful, and one of the best ways to get closer to nature. New York State is a paddler’s paradise, with plenty of options for those who are just getting started. Feeling nervous? No problem. Bring a guide with you for your first time out. Here are five great kayaking spots to dip your paddle in the water for the first time.
For those who seek a calmer alternative to the Hudson River, Croton River is worth checking out. Launch your kayak from Echo Canoe and Kayak Launch, and enjoy the scenes of pretty houses and water birds along the way.
This small, serene lake is open only to boats without motors, contributing to its beginner-friendly appeal. Paddle around the lake’s one mile of shoreline and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding woodlands.
In its 588 acres of water, Lamoka Lake reveals quiet inlets, marshlands, wildlife, summer homes, and three islands to explore. You can also kayak through a channel to Lamoka’s sister lake, Waneta Lake.
This lake is a haven for wildlife, including hundreds of species of birds and plants, as well as beavers, turtles, and migrating Canada geese. Call ahead before kayaking—the nature center reserves the right to close the lake at any time.
One of the largest rivers in central New York, Seneca River is a popular spot for kayakers who want a leisurely experience. Check out the Howland Island Wildlife Management Area, which is a nesting spot for birds that you can explore on foot.
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