8 Best Places to Paddle Board in Oregon (OR)

Discover the scenic beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Ever thought of paddling alongside playful otters or beneath breathtaking waterfalls?

Some of the best places to paddle board in Oregon await you.

Let’s dive in and explore Oregon’s pristine waters together. Ready to ride?

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Table of Contents

1 Map
2 Where to Paddle Board in Oregon
3 FAQ

Map

Where to Paddle Board in Oregon

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!

#1 Willamette River

????️ Location Type: River
Access Point: Willamette Park Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, some wind on open stretches
Popular Seasons: Spring, Summer, and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, otters, herons, osprey
????️️ Landmarks & Views: Portland skyline, scenic riverbanks, multiple city bridges
Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, be aware of water level changes

The Willamette River runs through the heart of Portland, offering picturesque urban scenery and great opportunities for various skill levels.

Whether you’re paddleboarding through downtown or exploring lush, tree-lined sections, the Willamette River provides a diverse and beautiful experience.

#2 Deschutes River

????️ Location Type: River
Access Point: Farewell Bend Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate currents, some wind
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Trout, deer, osprey, bald eagles
????️️ Landmarks & Views: Old Mill District, iconic bridges, surrounding mountains
Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution through rapids or during high water, respect private property

The Deschutes River is surrounded by beautiful Central Oregon landscapes. Paddleboarding along its calm sections allows for adventure, relaxation, and the chance to admire the crystal-clear waters of this fascinating river.

Be sure to visit the Old Mill District for the full Deschutes River experience.

#3 Columbia River Gorge

????️ ️Location Type: River
Access Point: Hood River Waterfront Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Strong currents, wind-driven waves
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, osprey, eagles, waterfowl
????️️ Landmarks & Views: Hood River, Cascade Mountain Range
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for wind and current, wear appropriate safety gear

The Columbia River Gorge offers awe-inspiring views of the Cascade Mountain Range and high winds that make it a favorite spot for experienced paddleboarders and wind enthusiasts.

Hood River serves as the prime launch point, boasting excellent access to the gorge and its thrilling waters.

#4 Devils Lake

????️ ️Location Type: Lake
Access Point: Regatta Grounds Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional winds
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Rainbow trout, bass, ducks, geese
????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Cascade Head, Lincoln City shoreline
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of water activities, follow boating rules

Devils Lake, nestled in the coastal town of Lincoln City, provides an idyllic destination for paddleboarding.

The calm, warm waters and nearby Regatta Grounds Park make this a perfect spot for beginners and families, while the stunning Cascade Head and lakefront homes add to the picturesque setting.

#5 Crater Lake

????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
Access Point: Cleetwood Cove Trail (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, deep blue waters
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Native Kokanee salmon, deer, birds
????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Crater Lake Caldera, Wizard Island
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of water temperature, follow all park rules

Crater Lake, the deepest lake in the United States, offers an unparalleled paddleboarding experience in the unique setting of the caldera of an extinct volcano.

Regardless of your skill level, the vibrant blue waters and awe-inspiring Wizard Island provide an unforgettable adventure.

#6 Tualatin River

????️ ️Location Type: River
Access Point: Cook Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Slow currents, protected from winds
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Salmon, beavers, herons, eagles
????️️ Landmarks & Views: Wetlands, riverbanks, residential areas
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of watercraft, respect private properties

Located near Portland, the Tualatin River offers a serene and picturesque paddleboarding experience.

The slow-moving waters and lush wetlands provide an escape from the city bustle and create a perfect environment for observing wildlife and enjoying the outdoors.

#7 Waldo Lake

????️ ️Location Type: Mountain Lake
Access Point: North Waldo Campground (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm, clear waters
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Trout, deer, osprey, eagles
????️️ Landmarks & Views: Surrounding mountain peaks, lush forests
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be prepared for cold water, respect campgrounds and park rules

Waldo Lake is an alpine lake located in the heart of the impressive Cascade Range. Its crystal-clear waters make it one of the purest lakes in Oregon and an ideal place for paddleboarding.

Surrounded by peaks and dense forests, the lake promises an authentic adventure in the wilderness.

#8 Siletz Bay

????️ ️Location Type: Bay
Access Point: Siletz Bay Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm bay waters, possible tidal influence
Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Seals, sea birds, crabs, clams
????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Lincoln City coastline, Salishan Spit
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of tidal conditions, respect wildlife