Explore the Best Kayaking Spots in Southern Oregon
Southern Oregon is a kayaker’s paradise, offering pristine lakes and scenic rivers that cater to every level of paddler. With its diverse landscapes, from the tranquil lakes nestled in the mountains to the thrilling rapids of its rivers, Southern Oregon provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. Whether you seek serene waters for a peaceful paddle or exciting rapids to test your skills, you’ll find the perfect spot right here in our beautiful region. Check out the lists of lakes, rivers and a map to them below!
Map of Southern Oregon Lakes & Rivers
Need directions to one of the lakes or rivers designated as Kayaking destinations on this page? Check out this google map with lots of pinned destinations to get out and Kayak in beautiful Southern Oregon!
Southern Oregon Lakes to Kayak:
- Applegate Lake: Nestled in the Siskiyou Mountains, this stunning lake is perfect for a serene kayaking experience.
- Lost Creek Lake: A favorite for locals, offering crystal-clear waters and scenic views.
- Emigrant Lake: Just a short drive from Ashland, this lake is great for a quick paddle or a day-long adventure.
- Howard Prairie Lake: Ideal for a peaceful paddle with breathtaking mountain views.
- Lake of the Woods: A beautiful, family-friendly lake perfect for all skill levels.
- Fish Lake: Known for its calm waters and stunning surroundings, great for a relaxing day on the water.
- Hyatt Reservoir: Offers a tranquil setting and is perfect for paddlers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
- Diamond Lake: Located near Crater Lake, this lake provides spectacular views and excellent kayaking opportunities.
- Crater Lake: While kayaking is limited here, the breathtaking views make it a bucket-list destination.
- Klamath Lake: One of the largest natural lakes in Oregon, offering vast waters for exploration.
- Agate Lake: A smaller, serene spot great for a peaceful paddle.
- Willow Lake: A scenic lake surrounded by forests, perfect for nature lovers.
- Fourmile Lake: Offers beautiful mountain views and tranquil waters.
- Galesville Reservoir: A great spot for a quiet paddle with picturesque scenery.
- Copco Lake: Straddling the Oregon-California border, this lake is great for exploration.
- Medco Pond: A hidden gem with calm waters, perfect for beginners.
- Soda Springs Reservoir: A tranquil spot perfect for a relaxing day on the water.
- Lemolo Lake: Known for its clear waters and stunning views, great for a day of paddling.
Southern Oregon Rivers to Kayak:
- Rogue River: From calm stretches to thrilling rapids, the Rogue River offers something for every kayaker.
- Applegate River: A tranquil river that’s perfect for a relaxing paddle.
- Illinois River: Known for its stunning scenery and exciting rapids.
- Klamath River: Offers a mix of calm waters and adventurous rapids, perfect for all skill levels.
- Umpqua River: A diverse river with both gentle sections and challenging rapids, ideal for exploration.
- Williamson River: Offers serene paddling through beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature lovers.
- Chetco River: Known for its clear water and picturesque surroundings, great for a peaceful paddle.
- Coquille River: A hidden gem that offers a unique and scenic kayaking experience.
- Smith River: Flowing from California, it offers beautiful clear waters and lush surroundings.
- South Fork Coquille River: A more adventurous paddle with stunning forest views.
- Elk River: Known for its pristine water and rugged beauty.
- Sixes River: Offers a mix of calm waters and mild rapids, great for exploration.
- Pistol River: A small, scenic river ideal for a peaceful paddle.
- Sprague River: Offers a serene paddle through rural landscapes.
- Little Butte Creek: A tranquil creek perfect for a short paddle.
- Cave Creek: A beautiful, lesser-known spot with stunning views.
- North Fork Smith River: Offers clear waters and breathtaking scenery, perfect for an adventurous day out.
- Shasta River: Flowing from Northern California, this river offers serene paddling through beautiful landscapes.
