Wood River: Launching your kayak from Jackson F. Kimball State Recreation Site is a breathtaking experience where the headwaters of the Wood River are a crystal-clear, beautiful turquoise color. This river has a gentle current, and scenic winding bends with breathtaking mountain views.‍

Upper Klamath Canoe Trail: If you love birdwatching, this is the perfect paddle for you! Accessible from either Rocky Point or Malone Springs, this breathtaking 9.5-mile trail winds through marshlands, riparian forests, and springs. Along your kayaking adventure, you'll have the opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife, including waterfowl and other birds, native fish, river otters, deer, and many other species.

Spring Creek: Launching from Collier Memorial State Park to paddle Spring Creek is an experience you won't want to miss! This crystal-clear creek is famous for its mesmerizing "dancing sands" and unique mare's eggs that change the water from a turquoise to a deep dark blue instantly. Spring Creek is a place of natural beauty and is also considered sacred by the Klamath tribes. This area holds deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance through traditional practices, beliefs, and heritage for the Klamath tribes. While paddling Spring Creek, you may see signs marking areas as sacred land. If you encounter these signs, please respect the cultural importance of these areas and the surrounding environment by turning back and avoiding entry beyond the designated point. Thank you for helping preserve and honor this special place.

Lake of the Woods: If you are looking for a relaxing paddle with a stunning mountain peak view Lake of the Woods is a great choice! This lake features a view of Mt. McLoughlin, 1,250 acres of pristine water and multiple boat ramps at Lake of the Woods Resort and Aspen Point Campground giving the water easy access.

Williamson River Runs: There are two popular kayaking runs on the Williamson River. Run #1 launches at Collier Memorial State Park and paddles to downtown Chiloquin. This scenic float takes approximately three hours and features a gentle current, making it ideal for beginners and recreational paddlers. For a more challenging adventure, run #2 launches from the Williamson River access point in Chiloquin and continues to Waterwheel Campground, offering faster current and more technical paddling for intermediate to advanced kayakers.

Sky Lakes Wilderness Adventures: Sky Lakes Wilderness Adventures offers guided tours on the Wood River, Spring Creek, Williamson River, Sprague River, Malone Springs, and the Wood River Wetlands. They also provide kayak rentals for self-guided adventures.

The Ledge Outdoor Store: Conveniently located on Main Street in downtown Klamath Falls and at the Running Y Resort, The Ledge Outdoor Store offers quality single and tandem kayak rentals, making it easy to explore the Klamath Basin's scenic waterways.

Crater Lake Zipline: Crater Lake Zipline offers unique sunset and nighttime paddling experiences with LED-lit and glow-in-the-dark kayaks. Kayaks are also available for independent rentals and self-guided excursions.

Gear: For a safe and fun day on the water, Oregon law requires every individual on a kayak to have a properly fitted life jacket aboard your watercraft. You'll also need to carry a whistle, to easily signal for help if needed. As of January 2026 all non-motorized boats such as kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), and rafts no matter the size must have a Waterway Access Permit. Permits are available through Boats Oregon Store or Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Weather: Before launching, always check the local forecast so you know exactly what to expect. For a safe and comfortable experience while paddling in the Basin it's best to come prepared and dress for sudden wind, rain, or bright sun!

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Remember to Leave no Trace as we want to make sure that the land and water stay clean for generations of enthusiastic adventurers!!

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Kayaking in the Klamath Basin offers an incredible opportunity to experience the areas rich wildlife, especially during the spring and summer months. During your paddling adventures you can spot a wide variety of species, including American white pelicans, Canada geese, American coots, ospreys, bald eagles, and several other species. During the summer months the basin is also home to ducklings and gossling's.

Beyond birdlife, river otters can often be seen basking in the sun along the shoreline, while frogs and toads inhabit the wetlands. The waters of the Wood River are home to brown trout, brook trout, and redband trout. In areas with abundant vegetation, such as the Upper Klamath Canoe Trail, paddlers will find stunning yellow pond lilies known as Wocus, creating a vibrant colorful landscape.

If you are heading towards Chiloquin from Klamath Falls stop by The Burger Shack a locally owned business for a tasty bite and a delicious milkshake to break the heat on a hot summer day!

Looking for something quick and delicious in Klamath Falls before heading out on your next adventure, think about stopping by Brevada Brewhouse or A Leap of Taste for an espresso and tasty local cuisine.

Heading to Lake of the Woods for your paddling excursion? Lake of the Woods has amazing food located at the resort. This makes it easy to stop by before or after hitting the water!

The Klamath Basin offers a wide variety of paddling experiences depending on the season!

Spring: Spring brings blooming wetlands, cooler temperatures, and abundant wildlife. It's one of the best seasons for birdwatching as migratory birds return to the Klamath Basin.

Summer: Warm weather and long days make summer ideal for paddling. Plan to launch early, as afternoon winds can become strong on open water.

Fall: Enjoy crisp air, vibrant fall colors, and the return of migrating birds. Fewer visitors make for a peaceful paddling experience.

Winter: Winter offers quiet waterways and excellent opportunities to see bald eagles, swans, and other wintering waterfowl. Always check weather and water conditions before heading out.

No matter the season, conditions in the Klamath Basin can change rapidly. Wind is often the biggest challenge for paddlers, particularly on open water. Always wear a properly fitted life jacket, let someone know your plans, check the weather before launching, and respect wildlife by observing from a distance. By planning ahead and paddling responsibly, you can enjoy the beauty of the Klamath Basin in every season.

Crater Lake National Park: Start your day with a paddle on the Wood River, Spring Creek, or from Rocky Point or Malone Springs, then enjoy a scenic 45–60 minute drive to Crater Lake National Park. Experience the Klamath Basin's pristine waterways and the stunning blue waters of Crater Lake, all in one day.

Lava Beds National Monument: Pair your paddling adventure with a visit to Lava Beds National Monument. After spending the morning on the water, explore the monument's lava tube caves, where cool underground temperatures provide a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Downtown Klamath Falls: Before or after your paddle, explore Downtown Klamath Falls' local shops, restaurants, and coffee houses. Stop by The Ledge Outdoor Store to pick up your kayak, then enjoy everything downtown has to offer.

Wildlife refuges and birding: The Klamath Basin is home to world-renowned wildlife refuges and premier birdwatching destinations. Many paddling routes provide easy access to wetlands where you can observe migratory birds, waterfowl, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.

Klamath Falls offers a variety of lodging options to fit every travel style. In and around downtown, you'll find accommodations such as the Cerulean Hotel, Best Western, Fairfield Inn, Cimarron Inn, and more.

If you prefer a resort experience, consider staying at Running Y Resort, Rocky Point Resort, Crater Lake Resort, or Lake of the Woods Resort, all of which provide convenient access to the Klamath Basin's outdoor recreation.