Getting out on the water can be the ultimate in summer fun for the whole family. The excitement in taking a boat or kayak onto a lake or river outdoes many other types of land-bound recreation and also promotes social distancing. You can fish, soak up the sun, picnic or just enjoy the soft slapping of the water on the side of the boat. Be sure to bring along a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water to keep hydrated. You don’t need to bring your own boat or kayak, you can rent one!
We strongly suggest you check the facility before making a reservation as COVID-19 may have affected rental equipment availability. And, in practicing social distancing, it’s important not to congregate at boat ramps, boat docks and beach areas.
Nickerson State Park, Massachusetts
There’s nothing like a visit to Cape Cod to lift the spirits. Renting a boat and taking it out on Big Cliff Pond or Flax Pond will make it even more enjoyable. You have a choice of eight different freshwater ponds to enjoy. When not out on a boat, there are 1,900 acres of oak and pine forest to explore at Nickerson State Park. Boat rentals are available to the public, so it’s time to take advantage of this summer fun. You do, after all, want to make this vacation something special.
Jones Lake State Park, North Carolina
Rent a canoe at Jones Lake State Park and launch onto Jones Lake where you have over 200 acres to explore. You can also choose Salters Lake with over 300 acres of water to navigate. These Carolina Bays are in one of the oldest state parks in the state and offer hours of enjoyment. Besides boating, you can also take advantage of the trails to hike through fascinating habitats, perhaps catching a glimpse of wildlife. There are a number of picnic tables so you can relax in the shade of cypress and pine trees and have a hearty lunch.
Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Kentucky
Get away from it all at Barren River Lake State Resort Park. There are so many wonderful outdoor activities to discover, including renting a boat and taking it out on the 10,000-acre Barren River Lake. You can launch at the available boat ramp. You can even rent fishing equipment to throw in a line when out on the water. When you come into shore after a day out there, you can hike through the woods, or even play golf on their 18-hole course. The choice is yours. It’s your vacation and you can do with it what you want.
Lums Pond State Park, Delaware
At Lums Pond State Park, you can find a day of relaxation out on a large freshwater millpond in a rowboat, kayak or canoe. Rent one so you don’t have to worry about hauling along your own. Be sure to bring your fishing gear. You can catch bluegill, perch, crappie or largemouth bass. Getting out on the water brings the whole family a day of pure fun.
Lake Fausse Pointe State Park, Louisiana
The 6,000 acres of Lake Fausse Pointe State Park offers many opportunities to get out on the water and perhaps catch that trophy catch. You can rent a boat and launch from the boat launch so you can explore the waterways that wind throughout the Atchafalaya Basin. Stay the night and do it all again the next day. Camping is available as well as lakeside cabins where you have more amenities. South Louisiana has never been more beautiful or so full of adventure.
Priest Lake State Park, Idaho
Priest Lake State Park is nestled among the Selkirk Mountains in Idaho, just about 30 miles from Canada. Northern Idaho offers forests of fir, cedar and tamarack where you can observe wildlife as they wander the wooded landscapes. Best of all you can get out on the lake by renting a boat. Paddling around Priest Lake is the greatest way to get a day or more of summer fun where the clear water offers views below the surface.
Lake Minatare SRA, Nebraska
Once you arrive at Lake Minatare State Recreation Area, you should head right to the park office to rent a kayak. You’ll want to get out on the lake and start enjoying the fun right away. There are three ramps where you can launch. Make your way to the tree-lined backwaters and explore the lovely coves. Over 2,000 acres are there for you to discover. When not on the lake, you can check out the Plains Lighthouse, a landmark in the area.
Check with your Local Government Organization
Many policies have been established to counter and control the coronavirus outbreak. State and local officials have been taking decisive action to stop the spread. The policies vary by state, sometimes to a great degree. When you book a reservation, make sure to review the park and state’s latest rules and regulations prior to your visit.
For COVID-19 updates, please visit our Impacted Park List and Reservation Guide for the latest information.