Kayaking, Canoeing & Paddleboarding

Grab a paddle and a life jacket, and hit the water! Explore designated kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding areas, and experience the stunning scenery of Lackawanna County as you glide along. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the Lackawanna River and our numerous parks provide opportunities for non-motorized boating at all skill levels.

— Paddling Locations —

Parks & Resorts

Kayak, Canoe & Paddleboard

Lackawanna State Park
Aylesworth Park
Covington Park
Merli-Sarnoski Park
Hillside Park
Keen Lake Camping & Cottage Resort (near Lackawanna County)

Lackawanna River

Kayak & Canoe

Host to events like the Riverfest in the fall and Shiverfest in winter, the Lackawanna River is the perfect kayaking destination to cool down in the spring & summer and heat up in the fall & winter, all while taking in a mixture of Lackawanna County's stunning natural landscapes and city sights.

oth kayaks and canoes are suitable for navigating the river when conditions are optimal. However, it's important to note that paddleboarding on the Lackawanna River is not advised due to potential hazards such as rocks, ledges, and overhanging trees.

Designated River Access Points

While there are many access points along the river, these are the designated public access points that provide easy river access and have available parking.

David P Maslyar Park — 229 Laurel St, Archbald
Blakely Borough Recreational Park — 300 Riverside Dr, Peckville
Parker Street Landing — East Partcrest St, Scranton
Sweeney's Beach — 40 Poplar St, Scranton

HOT TIP: To ensure the best experience, the Lackawanna River Conservation Association recommends verifying that the water level at the Archbald gauge falls between 2.6 feet and 3.6 feet (usually occurs between the end of September and the beginning of May.) Current conditions can be monitored on the LRCA's website.

— Guided Trips —

— Rentals —

Lackawanna State Park • Kayak, Canoe
Hillside Park • Canoe
Ski Shack • Kayak, Paddleboard
Keen Lake Camping & Cottage Resort • Kayak, Canoe, Paddleboard
Susquehanna Kayak & Canoe Rentals • Kayak, Canoe

— Additional Information —

Paddleboard Info

Stand-up paddleboards (SUP) can launch at Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission lakes and access areas or state parks if they display a Fish and Boat Commission launch use permit, boat registration, or Pennsylvania state parks launch permit or mooring permit.

State Parks & State Forests

All kayaks and canoes launched in Pennsylvania state parks, and forests must display one of the following:

Boat registration from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Launching permit from the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
Launching permit or mooring permit from Pennsylvania state parks -- available at most state park offices