Oregon really is such a beautiful place to start or enjoy your kayaking journey. This Pacific Northwest State has won the natural landscape lottery! Kayaking routes will take you to rugged coastlines, peaceful lakes, and rapid rivers, meaning there’s a kayak spot for all skill levels. 

Here are the 12 best kayaking spots in Oregon.

1. Willamette River

• Location: Runs from Eugene to Portland, OR
• Best for: Scenic paddling and wildlife watching

The Willamette River is said to offer “187 miles of wonder”, and kayaking is just one of the ways to enjoy it! Following the Willamette River will take you past beautiful valleys, forests, and, and charming small towns. 

It’s a fantastic spot for both beginners and more experienced paddlers, since it’s a mostly gentle ride with just a few easy rapids to spice things up. Nature lovers should keep their eyes peeled to see herons, eagles, and even playful otters during their journey!

2. Dexter Reservoir

• Location: Near Lowell, about 15 miles southeast of Eugene
• Best for: Kayaking and watersports close to the city

Just south of Eugene, Dexter Reservoir is especially popular with kayakers thanks to its relatively unvaried depths. You’ll need to share the area with other water sports enthusiasts (it’s also popular with fishers, motorboats, and swimmers). 

Take in views of the wooded hillsides as you paddle around the calm waters. Close to Dexter State Recreation Site, this family-friendly spot has plenty of space for a shoreside picnic or a round of disc golf after your kayak adventure!

3. Smith River

• Location: Southern Oregon, near Reedsport
• Best for: Exploring secluded, forested areas

One reason kayakers absolutely love the Smith River is because it’s so blue! The clarity of the water really makes it shine. Eventually flowing into California, the Smith River has a mix of Class I rapids and calm, flat water, so it’s a good choice for all skill levels. 

As you float, you’ll be surrounded by the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, known to be one of the most beautiful forests in Oregon.

4. Tillamook Coast

• Location: Tillamook, Oregon Coast
• Best for: Coastal paddling with a chance to see marine life

The Tillamook Coast has plenty of options skill-wise, so whether you’re an experienced kayaker or new to paddling, there’s an option for you. Sheltered Rockaway Beach is great for beginner paddlers wanting calm waters, and those wanting a bit more of an interesting route can explore the coastal waterways. 

The wildlife is beautiful here, so keep an eye out for sea lions and harbor seals!

5. Crater Lake

• Location: Crater Lake National Park, Southern Oregon
• Best for: Pristine Views

As the deepest lake in the continental United States, Crater Lake is a must-visit for any Oregon visitor. 

However, due to environmental protections, you cannot actually kayak on Crater Lake itself. But once you soak up the views of this natural wonder, you are able to join guided kayak tours just a stone’s throw away. 

A tour through the Upper Klamath Wildlife Refuge and Malone Springs will take you through diverse ecosystems, from marshes to forests. It’s perfect for those who want calm, easy waters.

6. Scott Lake

• Location: Near McKenzie Pass, Central Oregon
• Best for: Tranquil paddling with mountain views

One of the only drive-in lakes in Oregon’s High Cascades, Scott Lake is a gorgeous spot surrounded by the Three Sisters mountains. This truly gives you a tranquil paddling experience, as you can watch the reflection of the peaks rippling in the water as you glide over its surface. 

The views get extra dramatic around sunrise or sunset, when the sun lights up the majestic mountains. Thanks to the calm surface, Scott Lake is a great choice for beginner kayakers!

7. Deschutes River

• Location: Central Oregon, near Bend
• Best for: A mix of calm waters and whitewater excitement

Called the “lifeblood of Central Oregon”, the Deschutes River is an incredibly popular spot that offers different levels of paddling for everyone. 

The Jason’s Wave leg of the river is calmer, with a few beginner rapids sprinkled in here and there, while more experienced thrill-seekers can tackle the river’s Class III and IV rapids farther downstream at the Eddy’s Wave leg of the Whitewater Channel. 

Since Deschutes River is so close to Bend, Oregon, you can wrap up your day on the water by exploring one of Oregon’s cutest cities!

8. Nestucca Bay

• Location: Near Pacific City, on the Oregon Coast
• Best for: Calm waters and birdwatching

Nestucca Bay is perfect for those who want an easygoing kayaking experience. Located on the coast, the bay is a mix of saltwater and freshwater, which means it’s an ecosystem absolutely teeming with wildlife (you’re likely to spot egrets, herons, and even bald eagles!). 

Start paddling north of the Pacific City Bridge and take a look around! If you’re a beginner kayaker in Oregon, definitely add Nestucca Bay to your list.

9. Rogue River

• Location: Southern Oregon, from Crater Lake to Gold Beach
• Best for: Multi-day trips and challenging rapids

Widely regarded as one of the world’s best river trips, Rogue River is one of the original Wild and Scenic Rivers. It’s suited for more experienced kayakers, as it has Class III and IV rapids throughout. The route will take you past impressive waterfalls, textured canyon walls, and lush forests. 

If you have the time, this is a great spot for multi-day trips so that you can fully immerse yourself in this stunning Pacific Northwest nature.

10. Clackamas River

• Location: Near Portland
• Best for: Accessible whitewater close to the city

The Clackamas River is a popular Oregon kayaking spot thanks to its close proximity to Portland. If you’re a kayaker who likes a challenge, this river is for you! Get your thrills navigating the Class III and IV rapids before the river calms down in the lower sections. 

The surrounding nature makes this a scenic route for kayakers ready to seek out a dose of adrenaline.

11. Waldo Lake

• Location: Central Oregon, near Willamette Pass
• Best for: Crystal-clear waters and eco-friendly paddling

Waldo Lake is known for its crystal clear waters, with visibility sometimes stretching to 120 feet deep. This kayaker’s gem is in the Cascade Mountains, and while there’s no overnight camping, it’s a well-loved spot for daytime recreation. 

There are no motorized boats allowed, meaning your kayaking experience will be calm and peaceful. This is an ideal spot for beginner paddlers. 

If you come in early summer, bring your bug spray–the mosquitos are almost as legendary as the lake’s beauty.

11. McKenzie River

• Location: Central Oregon, between the Cascade Mountains and Eugene
• Best for: Clear waters, fly fishing, and mild rapids

The McKenzie River is famous for its fantastic whitewater rafting, excellent fishing, and irresistible waterfall hikes. Located near Eugene, the McKenzie draws kayakers year-round, even serving as training grounds for famous professional kayakers. 

There are peaceful stretches perfect for a relaxed paddle, along with some fun and gentle rapids (Class I-II) for those who are prepared for a little thrill. 

As you float down the McKenzie, you’ll be treated to views of majestic evergreens and waterfalls, including the impressive Sahalie and Koosah Falls.

Find Your Perfect Kayak Adventure in Oregon

With miles and miles of calm waterways and jaw-dropping nature on all sides, a kayak adventure in Oregon is a worthwhile trip. Whether you want lazy rivers, challenging rapids, or forest floating adventure, Oregon’s rivers, lakes, and bays have it all. So grab your paddle and your lifejacket, and get out on the water!