6 Best Lake in the Twin Cities for Kayaking + SUP with Kids
Looking for new ways to explore some of the best lakes in the Twin Cities with kids? Try a fun family day of kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)! As the land of 10,000 lakes, we have many fantastic places to kayak and paddleboard with kids in the Twin Cities. To help you plan, we’ve narrowed it down to six excellent lakes (plus a bonus idea at the end!). From urban gems like Lake Bde Maka Ska to serene suburban lakes like East Fish Lake, each spot promises scenic beauty, family-friendly amenities, and easy access points. Whatever lake you choose this summer, every paddle promises unforgettable family moments and shared memories. From paddling under sunny skies, tranquil waterways, and peaceful sunsets, here are the best lakes for paddling with kids in the Twin Cities!
Lake Bde Maka Ska
A beloved neighborhood gem in Minneapolis, Lake Bde Maka Ska is a top destination for families who love spending warm summer days paddling together. Its three fantastic beaches—32nd Street Beach, North Beach, and Thomas Beach—are perfect for water adventures with kids. If you need a rental for the day, Wheel Fun Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. Launch sites are at 2715 W Lake Street (on the north end), North Beach, and Thomas Beach. Paddling here provides a beautiful view of the city’s skyline (which makes it one of the best lakes for kayaking with kids in Minneapolis), though it will likely be busier than other lakes on this list.
If you’re hoping to swim before or after your paddle, Thomas Beach stands out among the three options: lifeguard services, a floating swim dock, and a sand volleyball court. Alternatively, North Beach and 32nd Street Beach each feature nearby playgrounds, making them great spots for young children needing a break from the water.
In addition to paddling, the lake offers plenty of family-friendly amenities, including two playgrounds, a fishing pier, sports fields, and a 3.2-mile trail for walking or biking. Food and drink concessions can be found at Bde Maka Ska Pavilion. Finally, parents will also appreciate the numerous restrooms, drinking fountains, and various parking options, including pay lots and some street parking. Undoubtedly, those searching for fun places to kayak and paddle board in the Twin Cities with kids will love Lake Bde Maka Ska!
Twin Cities Kayaking & Sup: Lake Nokomis
Located in the heart of Minneapolis, Lake Nokomis is the perfect spot for families with kids who love kayaking and paddle boarding. Before you head out onto the water, you can dip your toes into the lake at one of the two inviting sandy beaches. Main Beach and 50th Street Beach offer ideal launching points for water activities, including kayaking and paddle boarding. As you paddle around the lake, you can take in beautiful views of stately homes and the lake’s natural scenery. If you don’t have your own equipment, Wheel Fun Rentals offers canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards. The rental kiosk is located near Main Beach.
Then this charming Minneapolis lake is also equipped with fishing piers, sports fields, a playground, and a 2.5-mile trail for leisurely walks, allowing you to make it a whole day of fun! Additionally, plenty of picnic tables and grills are scattered throughout the park for lunch or dinner. Alternatively, there is an on-site seasonal eatery called The Painted Turtle. The park also offers clean restrooms and drinking fountains. Finally, both free and paid parking options are available. No wonder Lake Nokomis is one of the best lakes for stand-up paddle boarding in the Twin Cities for families!
Lake of the Isles
Nestled in Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes (and connected to Lake Bde Maka Ska and Cedar Lake), Lake of the Isles is a paradise for families who enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding together. This picturesque lake offers stunning scenery, including two charming bridges (one at each end), two islands, and a clear view of the Minneapolis skyline! Though it lacks beaches for swimming, there are several spots to launch non-motorized watercraft, including at the north end of the lake (just off W Lake of the Isles Parkway). Its calm waters make it a favorite on this list of the best lakes for kayaking with kids in the Twin Cities. Keep in mind, however, that this lake is best used if you have your own equipment. Though, rentals can be found at nearby Lake Bde Maka Ska.
In addition to paddling, the 2.7-mile loop trail around the lake is ideal for walking or biking with kids, and the park includes a fishing pier, sports fields, and a dog park. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for picnicking, leisurely strolls, and playing in the lush green spaces. Convenient amenities like drinking fountains are scattered throughout the park. Finally, while no dedicated parking lots exist, ample street parking is available. Indeed, Lake of the Isles promises a delightful day of water activities and relaxation for everyone!
Cedar Lake
One of the best lakes for paddling with kids in the Twin Cities, Cedar Lake is another lake that’s part of Minneapolis’ Chain of Lakes. Cedar Lake is more residential than other urban lakes on this list, and it tends to be quiet, making it an excellent option for all ages. This lake also features three inviting beaches—Cedar Lake East Beach, Cedar Lake Point Beach, and Cedar Lake South Beach—perfect for a family day on the water. Kayaks and paddle boards can be launched at any of the beaches. Please note, however, that there are no equipment rentals or lifeguards at Cedar Lake.
Situated around the lake is a 1.68-mile walking and biking path, making combining water activities with a scenic stroll or bike ride easy. Families can also enjoy picnicking in designated areas, some of which include grills. Lastly, parking is hassle-free with an on-site pay lot, making Cedar Lake a convenient and fun destination for family adventures.
Bush Lake
Tucked into Bloomington’s Hyland-Bush-Anderson Lakes Park Reserve, Bush Lake Beach and West Bush Lake Park provide excellent launching points for family paddling on Bush Lake. There are no rentals here, so you must bring your own equipment. Once on the water, you’ll see why this lake is a family favorite. With calm, shallow waters, beautiful scenery, and plenty of kid-friendly amenities in the park, it’s an excellent option for all ages. Unsurprisingly, this is a top pick for the best lakes for kayaking with kids in the Twin Cities!
After your paddle, Bush Lake Beach is an ideal summer spot for swimming together. This beach offers free admission and parking, making it a budget-friendly destination near Minneapolis. Please note, however, that there are no lifeguards on duty here. Beyond the water activities, kids can enjoy a nearby playground and a sand volleyball court. A small concession stand provides snacks; the beach has restrooms and drinking fountains.
Pro Tip: Those needing rental equipment can paddle at Bloomington’s nearby Hyland Lake instead. Online reservations are required.
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Twin Cities Kayaking & Sup: East Fish Lake
In Maple Grove’s Fish Lake Regional Park, East Fish Lake is a beautiful place to paddle and enjoy sunny days together. The wooded setting provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life – less than 30 minutes from Minneapolis! Managed by the Three Rivers Park District (find all their paddling locations here), this lake is particularly prized for its gentle waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a great option for all ages and skill levels. Fish Lake Regional Park also offers watercraft rentals for families needing equipment. Reservations can be made online or in person. Click here to reserve a boat.
As one of the best lakes for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding in the Twin Cities for families, there is plenty to do when you need a break from the water, too! After your paddle, enjoy a quick swim, hiking and biking trails, lush picnicking areas, and more. Finally, please note that there are limited parking spaces near the launching point. A daily or annual trailer parking pass is also required here.
Bonus: Try a Nearby River!
As a bonus, two rivers make excellent places to kayak and paddleboard with kids in the Twin Cities! If you want unique scenery, a gentle current to help with paddling, and a fun day, add the St. Croix River and Mississippi River to your list for consideration. Keep reading to learn why these two rivers make excellent places to paddle with kids of all ages.
St. Croix River: Families love kayaking or canoeing down the St. Croix River due to the gentle currents, plenty of places to stop for a swim or a picnic, and fishing. The experience is made more accessible with Taylors Falls Canoe & Kayak Rental. Perfect for families, they offer easy, affordable rentals, including double kayaks, standard kayaks, and cones. Start at Interstate State Park and paddle downstream, with trips ranging from 3 to 7 hours; there is an option for all skill levels and abilities. Enjoy scenic views, swimming, and fishing along the way. A shuttle service returns you to the park, ensuring a hassle-free adventure with kids.
The Mississippi River:
- Explore the great Mississippi River with the Twin Cities’ self-serve kayak-sharing system, perfect for families looking to enjoy a day on the water.
- Rent a kayak and paddle to a destination downriver, choosing from multiple routes starting at just one hour.
- For a more immersive experience, join the Paddle With A Ranger program, a guided paddling adventure with a National Park Service ranger.
While you paddle, enjoy scenic views and make unforgettable memories on the Mississippi River with your kids.
Keep Paddling in Minnesota with Kids!
We hope this list of the best lakes in the Twin Cities for kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding with kids helps you find the perfect place for your next family outing. Undoubtedly, while searching for the best lakes for paddling with kids near Minneapolis and Saint Paul, you’ll want family-friendly amenities, easy access points, great swimming, and natural beauty. No matter which option you choose from this guide, these lakes promise it all. Indeed, our lakes offer fantastic places to swim, paddle, and enjoy the great outdoors as a family. Nothing says summer in Minnesota like great days spent on the water! Have fun exploring the best places to kayak and paddle board in the Twin Cities with your kids this summer.
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
