Where to Paddle Near Portland

Not all water is created equal and when it comes to paddle boarding & Kayaking, the right spot makes all the difference.

These are our go-to locations around Portland for calm water, easy access, and great vibes.

Fairview Lake

Why we love it:

If it’s your first time on a board, this is the move. Calm, flat water with easy access and minimal boat traffic.

Good for: First-timers, families, kids, confidence-building

Best time: Morning or early evening

Address:

Fairview Lake

Fairview Community Park

NE 223rd Ave & NE Interlachen Ln

Fairview, OR 97024

Henry Hagg Lake

Why we love it:

Big, scenic, and peaceful especially early in the day. Plenty of room to spread out and cruise.

Good for: Longer paddles, relaxed cruising

Best time: Early morning (wind picks up later)

Address:

Henry Hagg Lake

Scoggins Valley Park

SW West Shore Dr

Gaston, OR 97119

Cook Park (Tualatin River Access)

Why we love it:

A mellow river paddle with gentle current and easy in-and-out access. A great step up from lakes.

Good for: Confident beginners, relaxed river cruising

Best time: Anytime

Address:

Cook Park

17005 SW 92nd Ave

Tualatin, OR 97062

Willamette River

Why we love it:

Iconic views, city energy, and a true Portland paddle, best enjoyed with awareness and good timing.

Good for: Confident paddlers

Best time: Early morning (before wind & boat traffic)

Common launch options:

Sellwood Riverfront Park

OR

Tom McCall Waterfront Park (quieter stretches recommended)

Vancouver Lake

Why we love it:

Wide open, peaceful, and often less crowded than city launches. Worth the short drive.

Good for: Space lovers, scenic paddles

Best time: Morning or calm days

Address:

Vancouver Lake Regional Park

6800 NW Lower River Rd

Vancouver, WA 98660

Clear Lake

Why we love it:

Clear Lake feels like stepping into a postcard. Glassy, crystal-clear water, mountain reflections, and a calm, quiet vibe that makes paddling feel almost effortless.

It’s one of those places where you slow down without trying.

Good for:

Beginners, relaxed paddles, couples, scenic floating, photos you’ll keep forever

Best time:

Morning — the water is calmest and the reflections are unreal

Address / Launch Area:

Clear Lake Day Use Area

Clear Lake Rd

Government Camp, OR 97028

(Launch from the designated day-use shoreline)