Your Friends Will Love These Group Kayaking Destinations

Your Friends Will Love These Group Kayaking Destinations

So it’s spring, and the rivers are running, and you’re itching for exercise, and you and your buddies want to go on a group paddle. There's just one problem with that plan-- picking which river to ride!

You want plenty of scenery and action, but not so much your less experienced friends can’t come along, too. It would be nice if you could turn it into a ‘yak packing trip without going so far afield that the logistics get hairy. You probably want to see as much as possible without getting totally wrecked. Maybe you even want to get a better feel for your gear and get a sense if you really have the best river kayak for camping. If all that sounds about right, here are our top picks for places to paddle:


Five Kayaking Destinations for Friend Group Trips


<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbahpVHj0-Z/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:33.24074074074074% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbahpVHj0-Z/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Amy B. (@ladeeda)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-11-12T23:58:09+00:00">Nov 12, 2017 at 3:58pm PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>


The Rio Chama, New Mexico

The Rio Chama is a great choice for parties of mixed experience, and its width will give your group plenty of room. Be aware that, due to the Rio Chama’s popularity, a lottery system doles out permits during weekends during the high season. But before May and after Labor Day, you are free to ride as much as you wish, whether you’ll be taking on a day trip or something a little longer. A perk of that popularity is that shuttle services are readily available, so it isn’t necessary to drop a car off at your take-out point. The Bureau of Land Management does have particular regulations for this river, though, including limits on group size and stipulations on how to handle human waste. Check their website before you head out so you’ll be prepared to do right by the rules.


<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BERWk2HBFfb/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:36.66044776119403% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BERWk2HBFfb/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by San Juan Islands, Washington (@sanjuanislands)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-04-16T18:26:11+00:00">Apr 16, 2016 at 11:26am PDT</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

San Juan Islands, Washington

No, it’s not a river, but it is a bucket-list sea kayaking destination that will suit all skill levels and can extend from a few hours to several days. You’ll have superb scenery, a chance to whale watch depending on the time of year, and plenty of room to maneuver. If you're a gear head, you can even turn the need to rent a 'yak into a chance to try new things like scoping out affordable sea kayaks or the best backpacking kayak.

See the famous Pacific North West coastlines from a different angle, including views of Mt. Baker and the Olympic Mountains. In addition to the orcas, you might also catch a glimpse of porpoises and bald eagles. You might even find yourself paddling through and camping near glowing bioluminescent waters.

 

<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BcKvJ3VgJna/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:37.5% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BcKvJ3VgJna/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Tifyane Smith (@tifyane)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-12-01T17:19:44+00:00">Dec 1, 2017 at 9:19am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Edisto River, South Carolina

Balanced between Charleston and Columbia South Carolina and Savannah, Georgia, is the Edisto River-- a gorgeous stretch of blackwater river curving through the lowcountry. There is a 62 mile segment designated as a kayak and canoe trail, with plenty of camping opportunities along the way. You can even stay in a treehouse if you book a canoe paddle trip with Carolina Heritage Outfitters. This is perfect for a chill, slow paddle that won’t harsh your mellow and might put you in a Doobie Brothers frame of mind.


<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNwnUsjgcaE/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:41.342592592592595% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BNwnUsjgcaE/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by William Ragulsky (@vayakfish)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2016-12-08T14:31:32+00:00">Dec 8, 2016 at 6:31am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel, Virginia

Get a taste of kayak fishing Virginia style. The Bay Bridge Tunnel might sound like a peculiar kayak fishing spot, unless of course you’ve heard through the angling grapevine about the amazing bass to be found here. The bridge-tunnel’s pilings are attractive to all sorts of fish, and to the fishermen who seek them, including trophy striper, red drum, spadefish, tog, sheepshead in addition to the big striped bass.

This isn’t the easiest of paddling-- the Atlantic can be unpredictable, and this area is also used by motorized watercraft, including big boats and container ships. If fishing is your thing, though this is a great place to head out with some friends, several poles, and a couple solid angling ‘yaks and all your other fishing gear for kayaks.


<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbevyrTnfkI/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:658px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:8px;"> <div style=" background:#F8F8F8; line-height:0; margin-top:40px; padding:50% 0; text-align:center; width:100%;"> <div style=" background:url(data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC); display:block; height:44px; margin:0 auto -44px; position:relative; top:-22px; width:44px;"></div></div><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BbevyrTnfkI/" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Peter Stephens (@peterdstephens)</a> on <time style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;" datetime="2017-11-14T15:18:43+00:00">Nov 14, 2017 at 7:18am PST</time></p></div></blockquote> <script async defer src="//www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script>

Genesee River Gorge, New York State

If you aren’t from Western New York, you might not be familiar with the mighty Genesee River, or the gorge known as the “Grand Canyon on the East.” Like its western counterpart, the Genesee River Gorge is a gorgeous paddling destination. Since 2008, the Genesee River Wilds coalition has been making improvements to attract more paddlers, including pocket parks along the river, building new boat launches, and restoring the landscape.

In certain stretches through the under-appreciated Letchworth State Park, you will even find some class II and II rapids. There’s kayak camping possibilities if your group is game for a multi-day adventure. If not, head back to Rochester and replace all those calories you burned with the city’s signature dish-- the Garbage Plate.