Kayaking
Grand River Adventures Start Here
Experience the Grand River from a new perspective through affordable kayak rentals with Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation at Riverside Park. With an accessible kayak launch, a protected lagoon with calm water, and river access for scenic City and nature views, Riverside Park is the perfect launch point for paddlers of all skill levels. Nearby trails, open green spaces, disc golf, and picnic areas make it easy to turn a kayak rental into a full day along the river.
Kayak rental opportunities are open to City residents and visitors alike, and paddlers of all ages and abilities. Whether you're enjoying a peaceful evening paddle, exploring with friends, or trying kayaking for the first time, kayak rentals with GRPR are a convenient way to connect with nature.
Rental Hours
Rentals are available on weekends throughout the summer. The last planned rental day is August 30. Any rentals after that date will be weather-dependent.
Fridays 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturdays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Sundays 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Rental Fees
We accept cash and card. All rentals are first come, first rented and are available during the hours listed above. Fees are paid per person, regardless of tandem or solo kayak.
Youth $5.00
Ages 17 and under. Fee is per hour.
Adult $10.00
Ages 18 and up. Fee is per hour.
Kayaking Rules
GENERAL
- No boats will be rented out within 15 minutes of the day’s rental hours.
- All boats must be back within one hour after closing time.
- Rates are paid per person, regardless of tandem or solo kayak
- Late returns of over 15 minutes will be charged a fee rounded up to the nearest hour
- Kayaks can be rented for up to 3 hours
AGES
- Children under the age of 10 must be in a tandem kayak with an adult.
- Youth under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian on the water.
PETS & SAFETY
- PDFs provided for all ages and must be worn at all times
- No pets allowed on kayaks. Legally recognized service dogs must wear a dog-specific PFD.
Contact Us
Our Office: 1500 Scribner Ave, Grand Rapids, MI 49504
Office Hours: Monday - Fridays: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Rental Closures: Closures will be posted to Facebook and to our closure hotline 616-456-3699
Call or Fax Our Office
To reach the office, please call 616.456.3696, option 1, or 311. For fax, please send it to 616.456.4561.
Email Us
To reach the Department of Parks and Recreation by email, please email parksandrec@grcity.us.
Follow Us on Facebook
Stay up to date about programs, news, events, closures, and more by following @grparksandrec on Facebook.
Follow Us on Instagram
Stay up to date about programs, news, events, closures, and more by following @grparksandrec on Instagram.
