Five Must Kayak Places Near Atlanta, Georgia
From fresh mountain air and rushing rivers to cool sea breezes and calm coastal waters, Georgia offers every kind of kayaking you could imagine. There’s urban kayaking in Atlanta, beach combing along the uninhabited barrier islands, secluded swamp waters and daring whitewater rapids for the thrill seekers. So grab your kayak and let’s dive into some of the best kayaking destinations near Atlanta, GA.
Kayaking Day Trips from Atlanta
Here are five fun-filled, must kayak destinations, all within half-a-day’s drive from Atlanta.
Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area
Atlanta, GA
The scenic Chattahoochee River starts in Northeast Georgia, flowing right through the heart of Atlanta before entering the Gulf of Mexico. With it’s prime location in downtown Atlanta and its protected natural environment it is easily one of Atlanta’s best outdoor attractions and one any kayaking enthusiast should experience. In addition to paddling, there are excellent fishing opportunities as well as running and hiking trails.
Chattahoochee River
Columbus, GA
Columbus is celebrated for the largest rapids this side of the Colorado River. An hour and a half drive from Atlanta, this top paddling destination offers the longest urban whitewater course in the world. Thrill seekers can enjoy 2.5 miles of whitewater fun as they tumble over eight rapids ranked from class II to class V.
Savannah, GA
It’s just four hours from Atlanta by car, but you’ll feel like you’re in a whole new world in Savannah, GA. The city is full of history, charm and romance, along with lots of green space and access to some amazing kayaking opportunities. You can explore Georgia’s salt marsh, barrier island, Intracoastal Waterway and more, all when you kayak in Savannah.
Savannah Rapids Park & The Augusta Canal Trail
Augusta, GA
Another destination for whitewater kayaking is the Savannah Rapids Park, just north of Augusta and about two and a half hours from Atlanta. If you’re not an advanced paddler or are just looking for a calmer paddle, the Augusta Canal Trail, which begins at the park and goes all the way to August, offers something everyone can enjoy. You’ll paddle past historic sites and wildlife on this five mile trail.
F.D. Roosevelt State Park
Pine Mountain, GA
At 9,049 acres, F.D. Roosevelt State Park is Georgia’s largest state park. It is a hiker’s and backpacker’s haven with more than 40 miles of trails. And with the 15-acre Lake Delanor and the 25-acre Lake Franklin, it’s also great for kayakers. You’ll enjoy hardwood and pine forests, creeks, a few small waterfalls and rolling mountains as well as a life-size sculpture of the president.
Kayak Racks for Atlanta, GA
Georgia is a beautiful place to kayak and you don’t even have to venture far from Atlanta to experience a nature-filled kayaking adventure. Make sure your kayak will be ready for your next big Georgia adventure by storing it properly between trips. Proper storage will keep your kayak in better shape, allowing you to enjoy it for years to come and there’s no better storage than our hand-crafted log kayak racks. Durable and naturally weather resistant, these kayak racks are made from 100% northern white cedar logs. They will beautifully store and display your kayak keeping it safe when not in use and your shoreline or property clutter free. Shop our kayak racks online now, with free shipping to the Atlanta, GA area, or contact us for a custom kayak storage solution to meet your unique kayak storage needs.