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Unique kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding destinations near Indy

Kayaking, canoeing + paddle boarding are great ways to explore the Indy area — so we’ve rounded up everything you need to know to get on the water safely.

Group of people kayaking on the water in Parke County

You can plan the perfect weekend getaway filled with canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, camping, and more at Turkey Run State Park.

Photo by @parkecountyin

Kayaking, canoeing + paddle boarding are great ways to explore the Indy area. But before we dive in, let’s talk about paddling safety. Check out this paddling safety guide.

Here are a few local options to get your feet wet:

  • Indy Canal | Canal Walk | 5-minute drive | That’s right, you don’t have to leave the city limits for this one. Wheel Fun Rentals offers kayak, gondola rides, and paddle boat and swan boat rentals.
  • White River | 17180 River Rd., Noblesville | 30-minute drive | Check out Strawtown Koteewi Park while you enjoy a half- or full-day trip spent kayaking or canoeing.
  • Sugar Valley | 1313 IN-47, Marshall | 1-hour drive | Canoe, kayak, or tube through Turkey Run State Park + Shades State Park.
  • Blue River | 5 US-150, Fredericksburg | 2-hour drive | Really rough it and spend a day or two rowing down the Blue River + camp afterwards.
Man doing paddle board yoga on the Canal in downtown Indianapolis

Make sure to keep an eye on the registration site — each week the next event will open for registration + space is limited.

Unique events to mark on your calendar:

  • Paddle Board Yoga at the Canal | Join the registration lottery for a chance to participate in a free 90-minute paddle board yoga session on the Canal presented by Pure Soul Paddle Board Yoga — 10 lucky registrants will be randomly selected per class.
  • Float & Fun in the Sun | Thursday, June 22 | 10 a.m. | White River Canoe Company, 17180 River Rd., Noblesville | $20 | Grab your swimsuits and sunscreen and join Northside MIBOR for this annual float trip down the river.
  • White River Report Card Launch | Friday, June 23 | 9-10 a.m. | White River Canoe Company, 20961 SR 37 N., Noblesville | Free | Learn more and celebrate the completion of the White River Report Card with presentations, a canoe race, and refreshments.
  • Grand Opening Celebration | Sunday, July 1 | 12-5 p.m. | The Parks Alliance of Indianapolis, 3001 N. White River Parkway Dr. W. | Free | Join Frank’s Livery in celebrating the launch of Indy’s first-ever paddlesports attraction along the banks of the White River with free test floats, live music, food, and drinks.
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