6 Best Places to Paddle Board in Raleigh, NC

Discover a hidden gem in the heart of North Carolina.

The best places to paddle board in Raleigh offer both scenic beauty and thrilling adventure.

So grab your paddle and let’s explore Raleigh’s inviting waters together. Are you in?

Table of Contents

1 Map
2 Where to Paddle Board in Raleigh
3 FAQ

Map

Where to Paddle Board in Raleigh

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 Lake Johnson

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Lake Johnson Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional breezes
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Various bird species, turtles
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Forested shorelines, city views
Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for other watercraft, lifejackets required for children

Lake Johnson, located in Raleigh, NC, offers a serene and picturesque paddle boarding experience within the city limits. The beautiful lake is surrounded by lush forests, providing a relaxing escape from urban life.

Glide across the calm waters and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this local gem.

#2 Falls Lake

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Beaverdam Recreation Area (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional wind gusts
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, deer, waterfowl
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Forested shorelines, small islands
Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow safety rules set by the park, be cautious of motorized boats

Falls Lake, located just north of Raleigh, offers an expansive and serene water playground for paddle boarding enthusiasts.

The lake’s calm waters and numerous coves invite exploration as you navigate around small islands and forested shorelines. With its proximity to the city, Falls Lake is a popular spot for a quick getaway or a full day of adventure on the water.

#3 Jordan Lake

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Ebenezer Church Recreation Area (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional breezes
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, bald eagles, waterfowl
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Expansive lake, wooded shorelines
Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park regulations, be cautious of motorized boats

Jordan Lake, situated southwest of Raleigh, offers paddle boarders an opportunity to enjoy vast waters surrounded by diverse wildlife. While exploring its open waters or maneuvering through tree-lined shores, keep an eye out for fish and bald eagles.

Jordan Lake is the perfect spot for a quiet day on the water or a lakeside picnic with friends and family.

#4 Neuse River

????️ ️Location Type: River
???? Access Point: Anderson Point Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, sheltered from strong winds
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, waterfowl, deer
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Forested banks, Neuse River Greenway Trail
Safety, Environment and Rules: Ensure safe river access, respect private properties

The Neuse River flows through Raleigh, offering paddle boarders a chance to navigate its gentle currents and scenic banks. Stretching over 200 miles, the river boasts a serene and peaceful paddling experience for water enthusiasts.

Launch from Anderson Point Park and follow the verdant shoreline along the Neuse River Greenway Trail.

#5 Shelley Lake

️Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Shelley Lake Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, minimal wind
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Turtles, ducks, geese
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Walking trail, wooded areas
Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park regulations, be mindful of other park users

Shelley Lake, located within Raleigh, is a favorite among paddle boarders for its calm, picturesque waters and abundance of wildlife. The tranquil lake is the perfect spot for a leisurely paddle after work or a weekend outing with friends.

Take in the stunning views as you make your way through the wooded areas and past the lake’s scenic walking trail.

#6 Lake Wheeler

Hieu, Lake Wheeler Park – panoramio (1), Scaling by stand-up-paddling.org, CC BY 3.0

????️ Location Type: Lake
???? Access Point: Lake Wheeler Park (Google Maps)
???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm lake water, occasional breezes
Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, frogs, waterfowl
????️ ️ Landmarks & Views: Scenic shoreline, open areas
Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of motorized boats, follow park rules

Conveniently situated in Raleigh, Lake Wheeler is a fantastic spot to enjoy paddle boarding on calm waters. Offering open areas and scenic shorelines, the lake is a perfect place to practice your skills or enjoy a relaxing day with nature.

While paddling, watch for a variety of wildlife, including fish and waterfowl, as well as frogs.

I apologize for any confusion, but after extensive research, I have found only six paddleboarding spots in or very close to Raleigh, NC. If you are interested in exploring other water sports locations within the state of North Carolina, please feel free to ask.