Whether you kayak, canoe or paddle board, the Triad and surrounding areas have plenty of options for paddle adventures. From rivers and lakes there is something for all ages and ability levels.
The Triad has 4 main rivers that flow through and around the surrounding areas. These are the Yadkin River, Haw River, Dan River and Deep River. There are multiple entry points to these rivers and some of those are shared in the list below.
The list is set up by the major Triad cities. Plus, great spots that are a short, day trip drive from the Triad.
Click here for links to these.
Burlington
Glencoe Paddle Access – For the paddlers seeking a more challenging experience, this spot on the Haw River is for them!
Location: 2348 Glencoe St, Burlington, NC 27217
Indian Valley Paddle Access – This a simple and short section of river that is perfect for beginners!
Location: 930 Indian Valley Dr, Burlington, NC 27217
Lake Mackintosh Park & Marina – 1,150 acres of paddler bliss is what you will find at Lake Mackintosh. Kayak rentals are available. Swimming is not allowed at this lake.
Location: 2704 Huffman Mill Rd, Burlington, NC 27215
Stoney Creek Marina – An enjoyable spot for canoes and kayaks to adventure around the oldest and smallest of the four marinas in Burlington.
Location: 1785 Faulkner Dr, Burlington, NC 27217
Town and Country Park – This hidden gem offers paddle access to the Haw River.
Location: 2999 Regent Park Ln, Burlington, NC 27217
Greensboro
Lake Brandt Marina – Lake Brandt is a great spot for paddlers and paddlers that love to fish! They do offer kayak and SUP rentals during in-season.
Location: 5945 Lake Brandt Rd, Greensboro, NC 27455
Lake Higgins – 226 acres of paddler delight! Rentals are available.
Location: 4235 Hamburg Mill Rd, Summerfield, NC 27358
Lake Townsend – This lake is ideal for all types of paddling and boating. If you love fishing, then this is a perfect spot to bring your fishing kayak! The lake spans 1,542 acres! However, no swimming is allowed in the lake.
Location: 6332 Townsend Rd, Browns Summit, NC 27214
Southwest Park – This 513-acre park, surrounds the Randleman Lake. This lake offers miles of paddling fun. They also offer rentals. It is important to note that there is no swimming allowed at this lake.
Location: 6309 Southwest Park Dr, Greensboro, NC 27407
High Point
Oak Hollow Lake – Not only does this area offer paddling access, but there is also a playground and picnic area. They actually offer SUP rentals, along with kayaks.
Location: 3431 N Centennial St., High Point, NC 27265
High Point City Lake Park – This park is for the whole family! There obviously is paddling options, along with a playground, carousel, mini-golf, and train rides.
Location: 602 W Main St, Jamestown, NC 27282
Kernersville
Century Lake Park – This newer park offers paddlers 6 acres of natural beauty and other park amenities.
Location: 309 Century Blvd, Kernersville, NC 27284
Kernersville Lake Park – A picturesque spot to spend the day on the water and enjoy other amenities that the park offers.
Location: 6408 Old Valley School Rd, Kernersville, NC 27284
Winston-Salem
Salem Lake Park and Marina – Salem Lake is surrounded by a 7 mile trail. Yet, it is also the perfect place for paddlers! They also offer kayak rentals.
Location: 815 Salem Lake Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27107
Tanglewood River Access – Tanglewood has it all! Even paddle access to the Yadkin River.
Location: 4061 Clemmons Rd, Clemmons, NC 27012
Winston Lake Park – Enjoy not just paddling but amenities such as a swimming pool, splash pad, playground, picnic shelters, trails, golf course, and sports fields.
Location: 2790 New Walkertown Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27105
Surrounding Areas
421 River Lake Access – This public paddle access also has a playground and picnic tables.
Location: 7695 Old Yadkinville Road, Pfafftown, NC 27040
Belews Lake (Piney Bluff) – This Belews Lake spot is the most ideal for paddlers. It is not as busy as the two marina locations. Thus, making it a bit safer for a paddle access point.
Location: 8636 Belews Creek Rd, Belews Creek, NC 27009
Burch Station Access – Here is another simple but nice paddle access to the Yadkin River.
Location: 116 Greenwood Circle, Elkin, NC 28621
Deep River Nature Trail Park – This beautiful 1.5 nature trail also has public paddle access to the Deep River.
Location: 117 Presnell St, Randleman, NC 27317
High Rock Lake – Checkout the Buddle Creek Swim Area and Boating Access. Here you will find the option to not only paddle but also swim! Many surrounding lakes do not allow swimming so that makes this lake extra special.
Location: 2880 Holloway Church Rd, Lexington, NC 27292
Lake Michael Park – A little east of the Triad you will find this park that has everything for a perfect day outside. They also offer canoe and kayak rentals.
Location: 7300 Lebanon Rd, Mebane, NC 27302
Red Slide Park and Paddle Access – Here is another spot on the Haw River that is great for paddlers looking for more of a challenge.
Location: 389 Lang St, Haw River, NC 27258
Yadkin Memorial Park – You will find the beautiful 140-acre Lake Hampton at this park. It is perfect for all paddlers! They do offer canoe and kayak rentals. Swimming is not allowed in this lake.
Location: 1142 Crystal Lane, Yadkinville, NC 27055
Yadkin Shore Access – This is a simple access to the Yadkin River.
Location: 8420 US 601 Hwy, Boonville, NC 27055
If you have other kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding spots you want to share with us, please add them in the comments below.
Happy Paddling!
Want to see more blogs like this and get notifications on local events and happenings? Subscribe to our free weekly newsletters.
