Kayaking Near Washington, D.C.

Kayaking is a popular activity in the Washington, D.C. capital region. Local sports outfitters and paddling organizations lead day trips and overnight excursions to a variety of beautiful destinations in Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. Within the city boundaries, the Potomac River, the Anacostia River and the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal (C & O Canal) offer a wide range of scenery and paddling conditions. Within an hour or two drive from the nation’s capital, you will find numerous lakes, rivers, and streams that offer flatwater and whitewater kayaking opportunities. Following is a guide to resources to help you plan your next adventure.

Tour Of “Would you paddle the Great Falls in Washington D.C.?”

Kayak Rentals, Sales, Lessons, and Guided Tours

Potomac Paddlesports – The kayak school offers lessons, trips, and skill clinics along the 10 mile stretch of the Potomac River and C&O Canal on the Maryland side of the Potomac River. Access points are at the Angler’s lot and Great Falls Park on Macarthur Blvd and Pennyfield Lock and Riley’s Lock off of River Rd. They also offer sea kayaking lessons at Truxtun Park in Annapolis, MD. The Potomac Paddlesports retail store is located at 11917 Maple Avenue in Rockville, MD.
Active Nature – Active Nature offers kayak and stand up paddleboarding instruction on the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. Jason Beakes, a former member of the US Kayak Team with over 20 years of experience as a fitness trainer and paddle sports instructor, has brought together an all-star team to provide innovative classes at beginner and intermediate levels. Online registration is available.

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Kayak Clubs and Associations

The Blue Ridge Voyageurs – A group for experienced whitewater paddlers offers trips around the Washington, DC region at various skill levels. Most trips are geared to intermediate to advanced levels. The organization does not offer rentals or lessons.
Chesapeake Paddlers Association – CPA offers kayaking classes, trips, and special events within the Chesapeake Bay region. During the winter months, the group practices and learns new skills at Fairland Aquatics Center in Laurel, Maryland.