Kayaking & Canoeing near Burlington, Iowa
Local paddling guide
Looking for somewhere to kayak or canoe near Burlington? 7 paddleable rivers run within reach of the city, including the Mississippi River, Skunk River and the Iowa River. The closest is the Mississippi River, about 0.3 mi away, and together these rivers offer 471+ public boat launches and access points. Check the live USGS gauges and flood-safety status on the Iowa Paddle map before you put in.
Rivers to paddle near Burlington
Nearest first, with straight-line distance from Burlington.
- ▸Mississippi River~0.3 mi away · 125 launches · 311 mi
- ▸Skunk River~7.2 mi away · 14 launches · 93 mi
- ▸Iowa River~20 mi away · 120 launches · 324 mi
- ▸Lake Odessa~24 mi away · 5 launches · 17 mi
- ▸Big Cedar Creek~30 mi away · 5 launches · 42 mi
- ▸Des Moines River~33 mi away · 73 launches · 294 mi
- ▸Cedar River~35 mi away · 129 launches · 275 mi
Before you launch near Burlington
Iowa river levels swing fast with rainfall. Before you drive out from Burlington, check each river's live USGS gauge and flood-safety status on the interactive Iowa Paddle map— it flags dangerous high water and dams so you can pick a safe stretch and paddle with confidence.
Paddle more of Iowa
Beyond Burlington, browse the full guide to kayaking & canoeing every river in Iowa or find paddling near another Iowa city.