This page includes areas to go kayaking in Maryland, kayak outfitters, and other information. Maryland is one of the best Mid Atlantic states to explore by kayak.
In western Maryland, the Savage River, Potomac River, Deep Creek Lake, Youghiogheny River Reservoir, and other areas provide excellent opportunities for kayakers.
Throughout Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay and its many tributaries offer an incredible range of habitats that are suitable for kayaking.
On the eastern shore of Maryland, coastal bays, and inlets allow kayakers to enjoy saltwater fishing, crabbing, clamming, shell collecting, and other activities.
The Eastern Shore is also home to several of Maryland’s most scenic rivers, creeks, and freshwater streams.
Scenic and Wild Rivers
Several of Maryland’s rivers have been recognized by the State Scenic and Wild River System. Maryland’s designated scenic rivers include Anacostia, Deer Creek, Monocacy, Patuxent , Pocomoke, Potomac (Frederick and Montgomery Counties), Severn, Wicomico-Zekiah, and Youghiogheny. The section of the Youghiogheny between Millers Run and the southern corporate limits of Friendsville has been officially designated as a wild river.
National Water Trails
National Water Trails are part of a network of scenic, historic, and recreation trails created by the National Trails System Act of 1968. In Maryland, kayakers can access the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, Captain John Smith National Historic Trail and the Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail.
Kayaking Areas
Western Maryland
Deep Creek Lake
Youghiogheny River Reservoir
Savage River
Central Maryland
Patapsco River
Magothy River
Severn River
South River
Patuxent River
Potomac River
Anacostia River
Monocacy River
C & O Canal
Lake Artemesia
Eastern Shore
Eastern Shore Rivers
Tuckahoe Lake
Tuckahoe Creek
Assateague Island
Ocean City