Where to Kayak near Boardman, Oregon
The small town of Boardman, Oregon is located on the beautiful Columbia River in eastern Oregon. It’s an appealing destination for nature enthusiasts and kayakers. There are tons of outdoor activities and waterways to explore, and the locals are friendly and welcoming.
Stunning Kayaking Destinations in Eastern Oregon
Explore these stunning kayaking destinations in eastern Oregon near the charming town of Boardman.
Hat Rock State Park
Hermiston, OR
A desert oasis surrounded by rolling sagebrush hills and outcroppings of basalt, Hat Rock State Park lies on the south shore of Lake Wallula. It was the first distinctive landmark passed by Lewis and Clark on their famous expedition down the Columbia River. Escape the summer heat under the shelter of cottonwood and black locust as you paddle the lake or explore the river. There’s plenty of fish and waterfowl to spot as well.
McNary National Wildlife Refuge
Burbank, WA
A welcomed respite for migratory birds, native plants and nature lovers, The McNary National Wildlife Refuge extends along the east bank of the Columbia River in southeastern Washington. It’s 15,000 acres includes the confluence of the Snake River, the Walla Walla River and many sloughs, ponds streams and islands, providing kayakers with many options for exploration. A wetland and riparian habitat, you’ll enjoy the many waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, raptors, reptiles and amphibians who call the refuge home.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
Wasco, OR
Cottonwood Canyon State Park is the second largest state park in Oregon. It encompasses 8,000 acres along the iconic lower John Day River. The John Day River is a long, remote, natural river system, that flows freely for 252 miles. It carved rugged vertical cliffs leaving deep-sided canyons and arid, rocky grasslands that extend for miles in all directions of the park. Launch your kayak across the river at J.S. Burres for a truly stunning paddle. You may spot Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, coyotes, white-tailed jackrabbit, big horn sheep, migratory and resident birds as well as various lizards and snakes. The months of April and May put on quite a wildflower show.
Deschutes River State Recreation Area
Wasco, OR
If you are looking for an exhilarating whitewater paddle, head to the Deschutes River. The Deschutes River State Recreation Area is a tree-shaded oasis where the swift Deschutes converges with the Columbia in Wasco, Oregon. The Deschutes is both a national and state scenic waterway. In its final 100 miles, before converging with the Columbia, it drops about a quarter of a mile as it twists through canyons 700 to 2,200 feet deep, creating a fun and challenging experience for whitewater rafting and kayaking. Heritage Landing is a popular launch that will provide you with access to both the Deschutes and Columbia Rivers.
Ginkgo Petrified Forest / Wanapum Recreational Area
Vantage, WA
A registered National Natural Landmark, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park provides a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The park is 7,124 acres with 27,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on the Wanapum Reservoir along the Columbia River. It is considered one of the most diverse fossil forests in North America and is most famous for the rare specimens of petrified Ginkgo tree. Kayaking the Wanapum Reservoir and Columbia River here offers fantastic views of big skies, petrified wood, carved gorge walls, golden eagles, sage thrashers and more.
Boardman, Oregon Kayak Storage Racks
Unfortunately, there always comes a time when you must store your kayak. Whether you own your own kayak, a kayak rental company or offer kayaking tours, the right kayak storage system can keep your shoreline and your kayaks looking great for years to come. Our 100% norther cedar log kayak racks can safely and beautifully store and display up to eight kayaks on one rack and are naturally weather-resistant. Shop our standard kayak racks online now or send us a message to learn more about a custom kayak storage solution.