By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Head out on lakes, rivers in state parks with canoe, kayak or paddleboard
kayak
Don Carter State Park, Tallulah Gorge State Park and Fort Yargo State Park offer a range of paddling classes for all experience levels.

State parks in Northeast Georgia offer canoe and kayak rentals.

Don Carter State Park, 5000 N. Browning Bridge Road in Gainesville, has four stand-up paddleboards available for rent and offers several paddling tours. It also offers a range of classes.

Full moon paddle

What: Paddle on Lake Lanier led by the naturalist as the full moon reflects off the water. Space is limited, advance registration required. Children must be 8 or older. Meet at the boat ramp. Bring flashlight, insect repellent and water.

When: 7:45-9:45 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19

Cost: $15 with personal kayak/canoe or $25 with rental; parking $5

More info: 678-450-7726

Introduction to kayaking

What: Learn basics of kayaking. Open to people 16 years and older who can swim and are new to kayaking. Equipment provided. Bring water and sunscreen. Meet at boat ramp. Advance registration required.

When: 6-7:30 p.m. Fridays, July 22 and 29 and Aug. 5 and 12.

Cost: $25 plus $5 parking

More info: 678-450-7726

Twilight Lake Lanier Paddle

What: Join a ranger-led sunset outing to look for wading birds and raptors. Open to anyone who can swim. Children must be 8 or older and with an adult. Limited rentals available. Advance registration required. Meet at the boat ramp. Bring kayak or canoe, water and flashlight.

When: 7:30-9 p.m. July 30, 7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 13, 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 26, 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 2, 6:30-8 p.m. Sept. 10 and 6-7:30 p.m. Sept. 23

Cost: $15 with personal kayak/canoe or $25 with rental. $5 parking

More info: 678-450-7726

Early Morning Kayak

What: Paddle along shore to watch for birds and wildlife. Open to anyone who can swim; children must be 6 or older and with an adult. Bring your own kayak/canoe or limited rentals available. Advance registration required. Meet at the boat ramp. Bring water and binoculars.

When: 7 a.m. Aug. 7 and 7:30 a.m. Aug. 21

Cost: $15 with personal kayak and $25 with rental, $5 parking

More info: 678-450-7726

Almost Full Moon Paddle

What: Paddle on Lake Lanier led by the naturalist under a full moon. Space is limited, advance registration required. Children must be 8 or older. Meet at the boat ramp. Bring a flash light, insect repellent and water.

When: 7:45-9:45 p.m. Aug. 20

Cost: $15 with personal kayak/canoe or $25 with rental. $5 parking.

More info: 678-450-7726

 

Tallulah Gorge at 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Road in Tallulah Falls offers full moon and family paddle events.

Full Moon Lake Paddle

What: Paddle around Tallulah Lake under a full moon. Space is limited, advanced registration required. Children must be 8 or older.

When: 9:15-11:15 p.m. Aug. 19; 7:45-9:45 p.m. Sept. 16; and 7-9 p.m. Oct. 15

Cost: $15 plus $5 parking

More info: 706-754-7981

Family Paddle

What: Family paddle around Tallulah Lake with children ages 2 and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Advanced registration required.

When: 1-3 p.m. Aug. 24

Cost: $15 plus $5 parking

More info: 706-754-7981

Fort Yargo, 210 S. Broad St., Winder, offers SUP classes. For more information, visit http://gastateparks.org/FortYargo.