Beautiful waterways can be found throughout North Carolina, and many of them are fantastic spots for beginner kayakers and canoeists.
With lush vegetation and brilliant, sunny skies, summer in North Carolina is a beautiful thing. And while road trips are a fantastic way to explore our state, there’s something magical about the view from a kayak or canoe—not to mention how fun it can be. Want to beat the heat while you take in the scenery? Try your hand at these 10 kayaking & canoeing spots in NC that are perfect for beginners.
Jones Lake, Elizabethtown
With its peaceful waters and strict rules and speed limits for motorized boats, Jones Lake is an ideal spot for beginning kayakers and canoeists. Situated within Jones Lake State Park’s 2,200 acres, Jones Lake offers relatively shallow, tea-colored water that, as opposed to fast-moving rivers with currents or rapids, makes it easier for folks just starting out to navigate. Jones Lake also provides a kayak launch, making the entire experience even easier and more ideal for beginners.
Lake Junaluska, Waynesville
Located just outside the Waynesville city limits in Haywood County, about half an hour west of Asheville, Lake Junaluska is not only a great spot for newbies, but it also boasts stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. A human-made body of water, Lake Junaluska’s waters are flat, making it easier for folks to get comfortable practicing. The fact that high-speed motorboats are prohibited makes it all the safer and more suitable for novices, and the on-site kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals mean you don’t have to schlep your gear to and from your adventure.
Mountain Island Lake, Mt. Holly
Although Mountain Island Lake is located less than half an hour from uptown Charlotte, it’s so serene and peaceful that it feels utterly removed from the metropolis. A reservoir created in 1924, it’s the smallest of the area’s other manufactured lakes, Lakes Norman and Wylie, and boasts calm waters and quiet coves. While motorized watercraft are allowed, much of the lake is a “no wake” zone thanks to its abundance of narrow channels. Similarly, speed limits and distance requirements are in place, making it highly suitable for beginners.
Lake Wheeler, Raleigh
With its expanse of calm, flat water, scenic paddle route, free entry, and convenient location minutes from downtown Raleigh, Lake Wheeler is an ideal destination for beginner kayakers and canoeists. Its serene coves offer ample opportunities for birding and general relaxation, and its on-site rental also adds to its alluring ease. Although motorized boats and water skiing are allowed, the lake’s large size makes it easy to steer clear, helping you gain confidence and stay safe.
Salem Lake, Winston-Salem
With 365 acres of flat water, Salem Lake is an excellent spot for folks to get comfortable kayaking and canoeing. Situated within Salem Lake Park, it’s easy to launch your own gear from the park. And if you didn’t bring your own gear, that’s not a problem because there’s an on-site rental. While on the water, you may run into motorized fishing boats, but fear not: they’re required to observe strict speed limits.
French Broad River, Asheville
At over 200 miles long, the French Broad River offers water sports enthusiasts of all levels ample opportunity for fun. But because parts of the river contain whitewater rapids, beginners should only seek out the calm, flat-water section from Bent Creek Park to the River Arts District in Asheville. The shorter section from Hominy Creek to Craven Street is also suitable for novices. The French Broad Paddle Trail map is a great resource for determining precisely where to go for a safe and fun adventure.
Dan River, Danbury
The Dan River is one of the Triad area’s most beloved bodies of water, and one of the best spots for newbies is Moratock Park. It offers a ball field, restrooms, and shelter, as well as a designated public access spot to the river. Experienced kayakers and canoeists agree that beginners should always map exactly where they plan to get in and out of the water before beginning any adventures. And if equipment is needed, hit up the nearby Dan River Company.
Toe River, Bakersfield
Divided into the North and South Toe Rivers, the Toe River is a beloved spot for outdoor recreation in NC. On account of its serene water, the North Toe River section is best for beginners. An excellent place to launch off is the Red Hill Run near downtown Bakersfield. For more info on navigating this section of the river, visit local outfitters Loafers Glory Rafting & Tubing. You can find other easily accessible spots on the Toe River Paddle Trail map.
Chowan River, Eure
If you’re looking for picturesque views and quiet, open waters that also happen to be black, northeastern NC’s Chowan River is the ticket—particularly its calm blackwater creeks and tributaries. Shoup’s Landing is a popular public access spot that spits you out directly into the river. Queen Anne’s Creek in nearby Edenton is another popular launch spot where adventurers can enjoy the calm waters of protected Edenton Bay and surrounding creeks.
New River, Jefferson
One of the world’s oldest rivers, the New River spans 320 miles, running from North Carolina through Virginia and West Virginia. Its water ranges from calm and placid in the north to Class III–V whitewater in West Virginia. Beginners should try their hand at the South Fork between Boone and New River State Park in nearby Jefferson. That section contains gentle, slow-moving river water ideal for beginners. The New River Paddle Trail is an excellent resource for mapping out your excursion.
