How many kayaking paddling outfitters are in Maryland?

Paddling Hubs lists 12 kayaking operators in Maryland as of today: liveries, outfitters, and schools running kayaking trips. New operators are added as they're verified.

Are kayaking trips good for beginners in Maryland?

Many Maryland outfitters and schools run beginner-friendly kayaking trips with instruction and loaner gear. Each operator's profile notes the levels they teach. Message them directly to find the right trip.

Do minors need a waiver to paddle in Maryland?

Yes. Maryland outfitters and liveries require a signed liability waiver, and paddlers under 18 need a parent or guardian release on file. Each operator handles the minor-release process on their detail page or at check-in; confirm the specifics before your first trip.

How do I book a kayaking trip in Maryland?

Browse the Maryland operators below, open a profile, and contact the outfitter or livery directly to check trip times, availability, and rates. Paddling Hubs is a free directory, so there's no booking fee and no markup on the operator's price.

Kayaking · Maryland

Kayaking in Maryland

12 operators across Maryland.

Maryland paddling

Maryland presents a remarkably diverse canvas for paddlers, from the rugged whitewater of its western mountains to the immense, intricate waterways of the Chesapeake Bay and its Atlantic coast. The state's unique geography, spanning the Appalachian Mountains to the Mid-Atlantic seaboard, creates a spectrum of paddling experiences. Flatwater enthusiasts can explore serene reservoirs like Deep Creek Lake, while river paddlers navigate the historic Potomac River, which carves through dramatic gorges and gentle valleys alike. This rich variety ensures that whether seeking a tranquil glide or an adrenaline-fueled descent, Maryland offers a distinct aquatic adventure.

The iconic Chesapeake Bay, a national treasure, anchors Maryland's paddling landscape. Its vast network of tidal rivers, creeks, and estuaries provides endless opportunities for sea kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Paddlers can explore historic waterfront towns such as Annapolis, paddle through wildlife-rich marshlands on the Eastern Shore, or discover secluded coves along the Western Shore. Outfitters throughout the Bay region provide rentals, guided trips focusing on ecology and history, and SUP lessons, allowing paddlers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem.

About kayaking

Recreational flatwater kayaking: lakes, calm rivers, and bays for paddlers of every level.

Quick facts

Best season: April through November

Operators

Kayaking operators

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Annapolis Canoe and Kayak

Annapolis, MD

Annapolis Canoe and Kayak is a kayak & canoe livery in Annapolis. They offer rentals of kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards from their floating dock on Spa Creek. The outfitter provides sales…

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Atlantic Kayak Co

Indian Head, MD

Atlantic Kayak Co is a kayak & canoe livery in Indian Head. They offer guided kayak tours and rentals on Mattawoman Creek, Mallows Bay, and the Potomac and Port Tobacco Rivers. The company provides…

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Bay Venture Outfitters - North East, MD

North East, MD

Bay Venture Outfitters - North East, MD is a kayak & canoe livery in North East. Rated 4.8 by 148 reviews.

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Blackwater Adventures - Hyatt Location

Cambridge, MD

Blackwater Adventures - Hyatt Location is a kayak tour operator in Cambridge. They offer kayaking, paddleboarding, jetskiing, and powerboating on the Choptank River. The location is open to the…

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Blackwater Adventures Chesapeake Bay

Cambridge, MD

Blackwater Adventures Chesapeake Bay is a kayak tour operator in Cambridge. They offer guided kayak tours, bike tours, and guided fishing trips. They operate from two locations, one adjacent to the…

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Calleva's River School

Poolesville, MD

Calleva's River School is a paddling school in Poolesville. Rated 5.0 by 46 reviews.

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Capital SUP - Downtown Annapolis ~ Spa Creek

Annapolis, MD

Capital SUP - Downtown Annapolis ~ Spa Creek is a kayak & canoe livery in Annapolis. The outfitter provides tours on Spa Creek. Rated 4.9 by 562 reviews.

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Chester River Kayak Adventures

Rock Hall, MD

Chester River Kayak Adventures is a kayak tour operator in Rock Hall. Rated 4.3 by 20 reviews.

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Pocomoke River Canoe Company

Snow Hill, MD

Pocomoke River Canoe Company is a kayak & canoe livery in Snow Hill. They offer self-guided trips on the Pocomoke River and Nassawango Creek, with options for hourly, half-day, or full-day…

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River Island Outfitters

Dickerson, MD

River Island Outfitters is a kayak & canoe livery in Dickerson. They offer 2 to 3 hour lazy river tubing trips on the Monocacy River. All tubing trips include a life vest, a deluxe tube with a…

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Ultimate Watersports

Joppatowne, MD

Ultimate Watersports is a kayak & canoe livery in Joppatowne. They offer rentals, classes, and tours on the Gunpowder River and guided tours and classes in the Baltimore Inner Harbor.

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Valley Mill Kayak School

Germantown, MD

Valley Mill Kayak School is a paddling school in Germantown. They offer kayaking instruction for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers, including youth. The school provides…

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