Canoeing & Kayaking

ACTIVITY SPOTLIGHT: Canoeing & Kayaking

By Deborah Roberts

Canoeing and kayaking offer a unique way to connect with nature.

These vessels are lightweight, easy to transport and grant access to otherwise hard-to-reach areas. 

“It’s a neat way for both beginners and experienced paddlers to experience the beauty of our state park on water instead of the traditional land exploration,” says Penny Weyers, manager of Lake Lowndes State Park in Columbus. “It allows you to reach the back side of the park, which houses our hiking trail, horse trails and famous American Eagles nest. Guests are able to see Lake Lowndes from a different perspective in a kayak or canoe.”

The basics

You can enjoy this activity without a lot of complicated or expensive gear, just a canoe or kayak, paddle, and life jacket. Many Mississippi State Parks rent equipment for a small fee.

Safety tips

Always wear a life jacket, even if you are a confident swimmer, cautions Maj. Chris Clark, administrator of hunter education and boating safety for Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. 

Be aware of potential dangers, such as submerged rocks, and avoid high traffic areas. “Become familiar with how to climb back inside the canoe or kayak if you should flip over,” Clark said. “Stay on the right side of a river channel. It’s important to anticipate that other boaters may not see you as you approach.”

Learn it

Before setting out in a canoe or kayak, Clark encourages people to complete the same Boater’s Safety course as those operating a motorboat, as the material applies to all vessels. Visit mdwfp.com to complete the class online or sign up for an in-person class. 

Did you know

• Paddling is a full-body workout that can be both relaxing and physically challenging.
• Paddling can also be a mental workout, requiring you to focus on technique, balance and form. Its rhythmic motion helps clear your mind so you can focus on the present.
• Canoeing and kayaking can be done solo or in pairs or groups, so they are a good choice whether you are looking for solace or social interaction.  
• Anglers who fish from a canoe or kayak can reach secluded spots that those in boats cannot.

Choose your spot

If you plan to bring your own equipment, you will need a day pass or an annual boat permit, which is valid at any Mississippi State Park or State Lake. 

Several parks offer kayak rentals, including Lake Lowndes (Columbus), Clarkco (Quitman), Roosevelt (Morton), Trace (Belden), and Tombigbee (Tupelo). Additionally, Tishomingo State Park rents canoes for scenic float trips on Bear Creek. 

More Information

In general, rental equipment is available from late February through late November, when the water temperature is higher than 65 degrees. 

Equipment can be rented from each park office for a full day ($30 plus tax) or half-day ($20 plus tax). The fee includes a paddle and life jacket, which is required to be worn on the water. 

Each individual must sign a waiver form, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. 

Check individual parks for specific rental hours. 

Homework

Send in your canoeing and kayaking photos from to the MDWFP Instagram account by tagging #MSOutdoorsCanoeKayak.

Deborah Roberts is a freelance writer for Mississippi Outdoors.