5 of the best places to take your kids kayaking in Houston

With temperatures on the rise and summer just around the corner, now is the perfect time to start planning ways to enjoy the outdoors — without overheating.

For those looking to stay cool while staying active, kayaking offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re paddling through the waters of Buffalo Bayou or exploring the tree-lined inlets of Armand Bayou, the Houston area is home to a variety of scenic spots ideal for kayakers of all skill levels.

Here are five great places to kayak at:

Riva Row Boat House 

Location: 2101 Riva Row , The Woodlands, TX 77380 

Riva Row Boat House is a premier watercraft rental facility located in The Woodlands Town Center and offers a variety of rentals to entertain guests of all levels of experiences. It is strategically designed to be a short walk from Town Green Park, Market Street and the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavillion. 

With multiple options, kayaks are the most popular rentals. Between tandem kayaks and single kayaks, Riva Row Boat House has a Kayak that can fit your family’s needs. 

Rental options and availability :

● Single Kayaks (1 seat) 

● Tandem Kayaks (2 seats) 

● Pedal Kayaks (1 seat) 

● Stand-Up Paddleboards (1 person) 

● Water Bikes (1 seat) 

● Swan Pedal Boats (2-4 seats) 

*Reservations are not required, but strongly encouraged as there is limited inventory and reservations get priority. 

What you’ll like 

• Scenic views 

• Ideal location close to food and entertainment 

• Variety of time options

Kickerillo- Mischer Preserve 

Location: 20215 Chasewood Park Drive Houston, Texas 77070 

Referred to as KMP, an 80-acre property featuring Marshall lake includes an expansive list of amenities and space for water activities. Including paved roads and trails, fishing piers, unpaved natural areas, a canoe launch, covered picnic area and fire ring for group and camping activities. 

With a variety of educational programming and special events, KMP has an option for every family. Programs include recreational water activities and there are training sessions available to help you learn the basics. 

Rental options and availability :

All pavilion use is first come, first serve and must be present. 

Event calendar and registration can be accessed through their website. 

What you’ll like 

• Relaxing scenery 

• Picnic area 

• Pet friendly 

• Maintenance and safety 

• Public restroom

Buffalo Bayou kayak rentals and rentals

Location: 1019 Commerce St, Houston, TX 77002 

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful Buffalo Bayou water trail and learn some history about Houstons noticeable landmarks, Buffalo Bayou Kayaks is the perfect option. A great place for bird watching, bat watching and a truly unique kayaking experience. 

With an expansive list of tour options and prime location near downtown, Buffalo Bayou Kayaks can meet your familys need and discover Houston in a new way. Various options of water activities are available with the quality equipmpent including tandem or single Kayaks and paddleboarding.

What you’ll like 

• Scenic views of downtown houston and landmarks 

• Expert instruction and interpretation from tour guides 

• Helpful staff 

Pinkys Kayak rentals 

Location:Bay Area Park located at 7500 Bay Area Blvd, Houston, TX. 

With five locations you can paddle through, Pinkys kayak tours offers an expansive list of options your family can explore including Armand Bayou, Big Island Slough, Spring Gully, Horsepen Bayour and Lake Mark kramer. With everything included you can be inspired by the wildlife you discover on your next adventure. 

Multiple options including tandem or single kayaks are available including amenities if you forgot to bring anything, Amenities including a map, directions on where to go, Kayak, paddle, life jackets, a 101 tutorial lesson, a safety briefing, water and even a dry bag if you forgot one. 

Rental options and availability 

• Paid reservations required 

• Single or tandem kayaks 

What you’ll like 

• Affordable- discounts available 

• Pet friendly 

• Multiple paddle locations 

• Women owned

• Good for kids

North lake conroe paddling Co.

Location: 13988 Calvary Rd Willis, TX 77318 

A fun, adventure driven Houston kayaking company, North Lake Conroe paddling Co. is committed to providing your family with a unforgettable experience exploring well beyond Lake Woodlands. With higher quality, customer oriented rental services to paddle sport and outdoor enthusiasts throughout southeast Texas and along the soft shorelines of the Sam Houston National Forest. 

Offering unique sit-on-top kayaks, North Lake Conroe paddling co provides a safe and enjoyable paddling experience. With several advantages including comfort, greater ventilation, more sun for the legs and better safety. 

What you’ll like 

• Affordable 

• High quality equipment 

• Multiple paddle locations 

• Scenic views of Lake conroe 

• Helpful staff