It’s easier than ever to get out on the water this summer in Des Moines! Whether you want to leisurely canoe, or get a workout on a stand-up paddle board, there are several places across the metro to try out a water sport.
Where to rent Paddle Boards, Kayaks, Canoes, and more!
Days and hours vary and are weather-dependent. Make sure to check websites or social for updates. Lifejackets are also available at most locations.
Athene North Shore Recreation Area
Where: 520 Robert D. Ray Drive, Des Moines
What: Standard and adaptive recreational equipment rentals, including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, water wheelchairs, and more at the Concession Building. We love the beach and splash pad here too!
Big Creek Marina
Where: 8550 NW 142nd Avenue, Polk City
What: Pontoon boats and fishing boats can be rented for the day. Sailboats, kayaks, canoes, pontoon boats, kayaks, hydro bikes, stand-up paddle boards, and more can be rented hourly on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Easter Lake
Where: 2830 Easter Lake Drive, Des Moines
What: Hourly rentals of pontoon boats, motor boats, single or double kayaks, canoes, paddle boards and paddle boats.
Gray’s Lake Park
Where: 2101 Fleur Drive, Des Moines
What: Hourly rentals of 2 and 3-person canoes, double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, 2-person pedal boats, row boats, and sailboats.
Jester Park Outdoor Recreation & Wellness Center
Where: 12130 NW 128th Street, Granger
What: Hourly rentals of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. Kayaks can also be rented daily and taken off-site.
Lake Ahquabhi
Where: 16510 118th Avenue, Indianola
What: Daily and hourly rentals of paddleboats, canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, fishing kayaks, and rowboats.
Raccoon River Park
Where: 2500 Grand Ave., West Des Moines
What: Daily and hourly rentals of paddleboats, canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks
stand-up paddle boards, fishing kayaks, and rowboats.
Seven Oaks Recreation
Where: 1086 222nd Drive, Boone
What: Float trips via canoe, kayak, or tube. Check their site for times.
We work hard to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, locations, and other information before heading to an event or activity, since it may change.
