Explore Maryland by Paddle

The Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays shape Maryland’s culture, history, and economy. With more than 3,000 miles of shoreline, it’s no wonder that its waterways – rivers, streams, and lakes alike – are explored by thousands of paddlers each year! Boating and fishing, two recreation segments with strong ties to the water, generate more than $700 million in added value to Maryland’s economy annually, according to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis.

There are many different ways to explore Maryland’s unique waterways, from the marshes of the Eastern Shore to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor to mountain lakes in Western Maryland. Non-motorized paddling vessels, like canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, are a great choice for those looking to get out on the water during the warmer months of the year.

The State of Maryland is known as “America in Miniature” for its vast range of landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities. From mountains to shores to urban city centers, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Office of Outdoor Recreation works to expand public access to nature and strengthen the state’s outdoor recreation economy.

We define outdoor recreation as “activities done in nature or outdoor settings (including both active and passive experiences) that support health, enjoyment, and connection with the natural world.” Spending time outdoors also benefits both our communities and our economy. That’s why it’s important to recreate responsibly! This series is designed to share beginner tips, insider knowledge, and useful resources as you journey outdoors with the goal of transforming all Marylanders into stewards, or caretakers, of our shared lands and waters.

Preparing to Paddle

Paddling by canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) is one of the most exciting ways to explore Maryland by water. You should always practice responsible recreation by preparing for your paddling trip. This section includes a gear checklist, diagrams of different vessels, a list of essential paddling skills, and strategies for staying safe on the water.

Paddling Gear

For paddling on calm, near-shore waters, you might not need a boat full of gear. If you are paddling to a faraway destination, though, you will need access to some of the key essentials. Your personal preferences, paddling abilities, and water conditions will help you decide what to bring on a paddle trip.

• Vessel with Paddle: Whether a canoe, kayak, or SUP, you’ll need the boat to get out on the water! Don’t forget the paddle either. You may want to bring a spare paddle in case your primary paddle goes overboard or gets lost in the water.
• Personal Flotation Device (PFD): Always wear a life jacket or Personal Flotation Device (PFD) certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. Consider attaching a whistle or air horn to your PFD so you can signal to other boats or call for help if needed.
• Dry Bag: A dry bag or other waterproof container will protect your essential items, like your cell phone, keys, and wallet. You may want to write your name and contact information on your dry bag or other equipment that may get lost in the water.
• Quick Dry Clothing: You should always assume you’ll get wet while paddling. Experts recommend layered clothing that will dry quickly and let you move comfortably while out on the water, like a synthetic or moisture-wicking material. Avoid cotton fabric if you can. Cotton absorbs water and will stay wet and cold. You should dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. For footwear, you may want closed-toed water shoes or old sneakers that will dry quickly if wet and stay on your feet in the event of an unexpected swim. Bring an extra set of clothes to change into back on dry land.
• Sun Protection: A day out on the water is a day out in the sun with very little shade. Wear sunscreen on exposed skin and reapply regularly. Wear a hat or visor with a long brim to protect your head, face, and neck. If you are wearing sunglasses or other eyeglasses on a paddle, bring an eyewear retainer or sunglasses strap so you don’t lose them in the water. Lightweight UV protective clothing is also a solid option.
• Drinking Water & Snacks: Always bring extra drinking water to stay hydrated on your paddle. Calorie-dense food and snacks help fuel your body in case you get tired. Choose snacks that pack well, are easy to eat, and leave little waste. Common snacks include trail mix, jerky, energy bars, sturdy fruits, cheese sticks, crackers, or sandwiches. Remember something like a garbage bag to take your trash with you.
• First Aid Kit: Common paddling scenarios may include scratches, sunburns, blisters, bug bites or stings, and weather-related illnesses. The true value of a first aid kit depends on your ability to use it! You can build your own first aid kit or customize a ready-made one, but be sure to store it in a waterproof container. Bug spray or insect repellent is also a good choice. Be sure to maintain your supplies and consider taking a first aid course to learn the basics. Know who to contact in case of an emergency.

Additional Safety Items

• Navigational Tools (map, compass, GPS)
• Waterproof Fire Starter (matches or lighter)
• Light (headlamp or flashlight, extra batteries)
• Rescue Equipment (knife, multi-tool, ropes, carabiners, heavy duty tape, throw bags, floats)
• Water Removal (pump, bailer, or sponge)
• Camping Equipment if traveling overnight.

Outdoor Recreation Business Directory

Do you want to take a basic water safety course? Rent kayaks for the afternoon? Go on a guided canoe paddle? Practice mindfulness with SUP yoga? Invest in your very own paddling gear? Check out the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Business Directory! This virtual map compiles hundreds of businesses across the state, many of whom are eager to help you have fun out on the water. Use the “Boating (Paddling - Canoe / Kayak / SUP)” recreation filter to explore organizations near you.

Types of Vessels

Kayaks

Kayaks tend to be stable and handle wind and waves well. With a blade on each end of the paddle, kayaks are the easiest watercraft to steer. They’re the ideal watercraft for those who prefer to paddle solo. There are a variety of kayaks on the market designed for efficiency, speed, and control. Specially-designed fishing kayaks are also great for anglers. Kayaks are often the best all-around option for performance and the ability to handle a variety of conditions, including flat water, currents, mild rapids, or sea kayaking.

Hatch

A sealed compartment that helps keep the kayak afloat. It’s often used for storage.

Cockpit

The designated seating area. There are two main styles of kayaks: sit-in kayaks, where the paddler’s legs are covered, and sit-on-top kayaks, which have open decks.

Deck

The topside of your kayak. It may have bungee cords to keep gear secure.

Stern & Bow

The stern is the rear of the boat, and the bow is the front.

Hull

The bottom of the kayak. Different hull shapes affect the kayak’s stability and agility in the water.

Kayak Paddle

Kayak paddles have two blades at the end of a central shaft.

Canoes

Canoes are larger boats whose advantage lies in their ability to carry more people and bulkier gear. Canoes are a go-to option for multi-day excursions or paddle camping. Additionally, canoes are a popular choice with families, as their large size can accommodate multiple adults and children in one boat. However, canoes require more experience and skill to maneuver in the water than kayaking.

Canoes are more susceptible to wind, and you need to work together with the other paddlers in your boat, making them a difficult choice for beginners in fast-moving water or rough weather conditions. Canoes are less stable than kayaks, so it’s important to keep your weight centered and balanced at all times so you don’t flip your boat. They’re also often the heaviest of the three options, making canoes a bit more difficult to transport out of the water.

Gunwale (Gunnel)

The upper edge of the canoe’s main structure. Lining up multiple canoes side-by-side, or gunwale to gunwale, is often called “rafting,” “barging,” or “gunneling up.” It helps stabilize multiple boats at once.

Canoe Paddle & T-Grip

The canoe paddle has only one blade. On the other side is the T-grip, the horizontal handle at the top of the paddle shaft. Holding the T-grip while paddling gives you maximum control, leverage, and secure hold when maneuvering the canoe in the water.

Thwarts & Yoke

The thwarts are the horizontal bars spanning the canoe from one gunwale to the other. They help maintain the structural integrity of the canoe. The yoke is a specialized thwart in the center of the canoe. Its curved or contoured shape is used to balance the boat upside down on your shoulders so you can solo carry, or portage, your canoe over land.

Paddleboards (SUPs)

Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) are becoming more popular for their full-body workout benefits. Your lower body keeps you upright and stable, while your upper body strokes propel you forward. SUP fitness, yoga, and exercise classes are offered by many paddling guides. They are also great for swimming on hot days, where you can hop on and off or change positions as needed. Inflatable SUPs are also the easiest to transport and store. However, SUPs are the least stable watercraft and may provide a balance challenge to some.

Tail & Fin

The tail is the rear end of the paddleboard. There is also typically at least one fin underneath the tail for steering the board.

Deck

The top surface of the board where you stand, sit, or kneel. Many boards will also have soft traction pads on the deck that helps prevent slipping.

Leash

A paddleboard leash tethers your ankle, calf, or wrist to the board for safety. The leash prevents you from being separated from your board if you fall off. It helps you recover your gear and stay afloat in the water.

Nose

The front of the board. It is usually curved upward to cut through the water. The nose or tail may have bungees for storage or grab handles for easy carrying and docking.

SUP Paddle

SUP paddles are extra long for standing. They are built lighter to float and may have a slight angle to the blade.

Learning to Paddle

Confidence on the water comes with practice. Whether it’s learning how to launch your kayak, balance on your SUP, or get back in if you tip your canoe, these essential water skills can only be honed with experience. If you’re a beginner, go out with an experienced friend or a qualified instructor who can show you the ropes. If you plan to explore more recreational paddling, practice the following skills:

• Basic Paddling Strokes: These are how you will propel and steer your vessel in the water. Know how to choose the right size paddle for your height and activity. For a standard canoe paddle, for example, stand the paddle vertically on the top of your foot. It should reach somewhere between your chin and your nose. Essential techniques include the forward, reverse, and sweep (turning) strokes. Paddling from front to back will propel you forward, whereas paddling on either side of the boat will help you turn. With these strokes in mind, you will want to practice paddling in a straight line, turning sideways, and reversing. Engage your core while paddling to prevent fatigue and soreness in your arms.
• Getting In And Out: Practice launching your vessel from shore, and know what to do if your boat flips or capsizes. Keep three points of contact with the boat when getting in and out, and keep your center of gravity low at all times when on the water. Practice makes perfect, so get comfortable with your entries and exits in shallow, calm water as needed.
• Read Moving Water: If paddling in moving water, practice looking at how the water is moving and guessing what obstacles may be under the surface. Strainers (objects like trees or downed logs) allow water to pass through them, but not solid objects like you or your boat. The force of the water can trap boats or drag paddlers under the water. Sweepers (obstacles like low-hanging tree branches) can knock you out of the boat or capsize your vessel. Know how to recognize river hazards and other moving water objects.

There are many resources for learning how to maneuver yourself in the water. The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), of which the Maryland DNR Natural Resources Police is a part, maintains the NASBLA SafeBoating YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/user/NASBLASafeBoating (opens in new window). They have many video tutorials on safe life jacket wear, safety gear, paddle strokes, and rescue techniques!

Water Safety

Safety on, in, and around water is the most important thing you can learn prior to going out on a paddle trip. Weather and outdoor conditions will have a significant impact on your paddling experience, and you will want to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to have a safe and successful journey.

• Wear Your Life Jacket: The law in Maryland states that all recreational vessels (including canoes, kayaks, SUPs, and rowboats) must have at least one life jacket, or Personal Flotation Device (PFD), for each person on board. Children under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket while underway on a recreational vessel. Each life jacket must be United States Coast Guard-approved, in good condition, the proper size for the intended wearer, and readily accessible. Preferably, EVERYONE, regardless of age or experience, should WEAR a life jacket while paddling – they float, you don’t! Attach a whistle to your PFD to be able to call for help when you need it. Three sharp blasts are the universal distress signal.
• Inspect Your Gear: If you own your own vessel, paddles, and other paddling gear, follow seasonal maintenance guidelines to ensure your gear remains safe for use. You may also want to briefly examine rental gear before heading out on the water:
  • For paddlecraft inspection, flip the craft over and examine the hull for deep gouges, cracks, warping, or leaks. Minor wear and tear is common. Deeper dents or holes may be a sign of more concerning damage.
  • Inspect ropes and storage bungees for frayed strands or loose ends.
  • Ensure the PFD has all its parts, is sized properly, and that the buckles and straps are in good shape.
  • On the paddle, inspect the shaft and blade for cracks, rust, loose joints, or other damage.
  • For inflatable vessels, ensure there are no holes and the valves function properly. The easiest way to check for leaks is to get the vessel wet and look for bubbles.
  • Leaky dry bags can get essential items and equipment wet.
  • Ensure your emergency kit, including first aid and batteries, is complete and up to date.
• Know Your Water: If you are going out on an unguided paddling trip for the first time, you’ll want to plan a trip within your capabilities. To do so, understand the water you’re going out on. Select somewhere with calm, flat water, and avoid strong currents, rapids, or surf until you’re more experienced. Small bodies of water, like lakes or canals, are great starting points. Paddle routes that keep you close to shore or venture into areas that are popular with other paddlers, who may be able to help if you get into trouble. Different water levels can change the nature of the waterway. At low water levels from little rainfall, obstacles can become exposed, and at high levels, the water will be moving faster. In tidal waters, check the tides you’re going out on and coming back to. Ask local land managers about paddling conditions if you are unfamiliar with the water in your area.
• Check the Water Quality: There are many environmental factors, like pollution, stormwater runoff, bacteria, or harmful algae, that may impact your experience with the water. It’s a good rule of thumb to avoid swimming or direct water contact with any public bodies of water 48 hours after rainfall due to predicted high water bacteria levels. State and county government agencies, like the Maryland Department of the Environment or Anne Arundel County Department of Health, for example, regularly monitor bacteria levels in the summer months. Nonprofit waterkeeper organizations and environmental groups may also run water quality tests for recreational safety. Consider registering to receive water quality safety alerts if you swim regularly. Do your best to check if an area is safe to swim before heading out. Know who to report to if the water doesn’t look right.
• Create and Share a Float Plan: If you are going out on a guided paddle trip, your trip leader will no doubt devise a float plan that contains critical details about your trip. If you are adventuring out on your own paddling trip, you will want to do the same. The float plan should be shared with a trusted friend or family member not going on the trip who can sound the alarm if needed. The float plan should contain details like:
  • Who: The names of everyone in the group, plus contact info for each person. Add emergency contact information for who to reach in case of an emergency.
  • Where: Where you will launch the watercraft and get out of the water, plus the planned route.
  • When: Estimated launch and return times, and when to notify the authorities if you’re late.
  • What: An action plan if you’re out past the final deadline.
• Don’t Paddle Alone: If you are inexperienced, try paddling with a friend or a group who can help rescue you if something goes wrong. If you’re paddling in a group, stay together. Everyone should be within earshot (or whistle blast) of another paddler at all times.
• Have a Way to Communicate: Whether it’s your cell phone in a heavy-duty waterproof case or kept safe in a dry bag, a VHF waterproof handheld marine radio, or some kind of personal locator beacon (PLB), bring something that can help you communicate with people on land in case of an emergency.
• Understand Weather Conditions: Monitor the weather forecast regularly before and during your paddle. You may want to know weather factors like local wind speed and direction, water and air temperatures, and tide charts. Knowing the wind direction will help you decide which direction to paddle. It’s recommended to paddle against the wind on your way out so that it can help you move back to shore when you’re tired. If a storm moves in, cut the day short. If lightning or thunder appears, get off the water as soon as you can. Review the latest marine alerts via NOAA’s National Weather Service. They will issue warnings like a Small Craft Advisory (SCA) when wind speeds or wave conditions are hazardous for smaller vessels. The NOAA Weather Radar is another good real-time radar imagery tool to track upcoming storms, precipitation, or wind.
• The Dangers of Cold Water: Cold water is extremely dangerous. It quickly robs the body of its strength, diminishes coordination, and impairs judgement, according to the American Canoe Association. Beginners should not paddle where the water is 60 degrees Fahrenheit or colder, or if the combined air and water temperature is below 120° F. If you do go out paddling in these cold water conditions, you must wear specialized insulated clothing like a wetsuit or drysuit that can protect you in the water. Know the typical symptoms of hypothermia, including shivering, impaired judgement, loss of dexterity, and slurred speech, and how to get help. Practice what to do if you fall in the water.
• Consider a Boating Safety Course: There are many resources available for boater safety education so you can feel confident and prepared to tackle your next paddling trip. The Maryland Natural Resources Police recommend a free paddlesports online safety course, which can be found at boaterexam.com/paddling (opens in new window). This course covers all watercraft, including kayak, canoe, and SUP, and is sanctioned by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard. The American Red Cross and American Canoe Association both have great certification and training resources on water safety, including everyday water competency skills and knowing what to do in case of a water emergency. These important skills will help you learn re-entry techniques and other water safety skills before you need them.

Where to Paddle: Water Trails & Public Access

Now that you are prepared for a day out on the water, your next question will be: Where can I go to test out my new paddling knowledge? There are many places in Maryland where you can rent equipment to paddle or adventure out with your own boat. See below for some recommendations.

Maryland Public Water Access Guide

In addition to the Maryland Outdoor Recreation Business Directory, where you can view businesses that rent boats, sell paddling equipment, or lead paddling tours, DNR also maintains a virtual map application for public water access in Maryland. The Maryland Public Water Access Guide provides detailed information on boat ramps, soft access launches specifically for non-motorized vessels like kayaks, canoes, and SUPs, and transient docking facilities that are open to the general public.

Find a Paddling Location Near You

With more than 16,000 miles of freshwater streams, rivers, and tributaries in Maryland, there are plenty of areas to get out on the water. While Maryland has no natural lakes, it also has plenty of man-made lakes and reservoirs. Research your county or city’s parks and recreation division to discover any local paddling programs, boat launches, equipment rentals, water safety courses, or other resources near you. Apps like PaddleWays and GoPaddling, as well as the Maryland Public Water Access Guide, can help you identify nearby waterways.

Paddle Sustainably

Paddle smart by learning about safe and environmentally responsible paddling. Here are some simple ways you can help keep our waterways clean, healthy, and accessible to everyone!

Leave No Trace

The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace help educate recreationists who want to reduce their environmental impact. Use the previous safety guidelines, like gear lists and weather recommendations, to plan ahead and prepare. Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Use only established soft launch access points and stick to marked paths to prevent soil erosion and avoid trampling sensitive shoreline, beach, and wetland plants. Use established campsites if you are paddling overnight. Dispose of waste properly, following “pack in, pack out” guidelines. Consider bringing a trash bag with you to clean up any trash you find in the water. Leave what you find. Shells, rocks, plants, and other artifacts should be admired and left behind for others to appreciate. Keep your distance from wildlife. Be considerate of other visitors. Sound travels easily across water, so paddle quietly and let nature’s sounds prevail. Be respectful to gateway communities near water access points.

Respect Wildlife

Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding offer a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close in their natural habitats. The Chesapeake Bay is home to many unique bird species, like ospreys, bald eagles, herons, and other waterfowl who migrate through Maryland. You may also encounter other creatures like sunbathing turtles, fish, marine mammals, and other reptiles. Approaching too closely can stress the animals and disrupt their natural behaviors. Try using binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to observe animals from afar! Paddle slowly and quietly through the water. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises to prevent startling wildlife. Do not feed animals. Be extra cautious during breeding and nesting seasons and give wildlife the space they need to raise their young. Respect area closures for wildlife protection. For example, the Purple Water Trail at Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge is closed seasonally from October to March to limit disturbance to wintering waterfowl. When in doubt, remember to be mindful and keep your distance.

Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers

Aquatic invasive species pose an ongoing threat to native ecosystems, the economy, recreation, and human health and safety. Many invasives, like plants, fish, and mussels, can accidentally be transported when people go paddling, boating, or fishing. These species are known as “aquatic hitchhikers.” To help prevent the spread of invasive species and diseases between bodies of water, you can follow three simple steps: clean, drain, dry!

• Clean: Clean off visible aquatic plants, animals, mud, sand, and other debris from all your equipment, like your boat, paddle, and clothes, before leaving one body of water. Rinse with hot water if possible.
• Drain: Drain water from your boat to remove small and nearly invisible organisms that can survive in small amounts of standing water.
• Dry: Allow everything to dry for at least five days, or wipe equipment dry with a towel before reuse.

The Clean Drain Dry Initiative by Wildlife Forever educates and empowers recreationists to do their part in stopping the spread of aquatic invasive species. To learn more, visit www.cleandraindry.org (opens in new window).

Paddle for a Cause

Help contribute to the health of our waterways! Kayaking and canoeing are popular tools for environmental education, and there are many public events that recruit volunteers to tackle environmental concerns. No matter your level of paddling expertise, there is an environmental group that can help you transform your passion for paddling into positive environmental impact.

• Baltimore City Recreation and Parks partners with local environmental groups to host events like “Canoe & Scoop” mornings for paddlers to help remove hundreds of pounds of trash from the Patapsco River.
• ShoreRivers, an environmental nonprofit on the Eastern Shore, helps organize volunteer programs that rely on canoes and kayaks to monitor the health of local waterways. Their Water Chestnut Warrior volunteers remove Eurasian water chestnut, a harmful invasive species that threatens river health and recreation opportunities.
• The Chesapeake Bay SAV Watchers program, developed by the Chesapeake Bay Program and coordinated by DNR, works with volunteers to monitor submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) as an indicator of overall Bay health.
• The Chesapeake Bay Foundation leads school groups and students on canoe field trips to learn more about water quality and environmental literacy.
• Annual paddling and watersports events like the Chesapeake Bay Paddle donate proceeds from participant fees to local partners like the Oyster Recovery Partnership, Chesapeake Conservancy, and Waterkeepers Chesapeake to help protect and restore the incredible natural resource that we have in the Chesapeake Bay.

More Paddling Resources

Other Types of Watersports