The Boathouse

Paddling adventures

Kayak, canoe, standup paddleboard, raft, hike, and more at the Boathouse! Self-guided kayak rentals, guided tours, and lessons. Headquartered in McAdenville, NC near Charlotte. The Boathouse provides engaging outdoor experiences within the Catawba River Basin that inspire our guests to protect our waterways.

Proceeds from the Boathouse go directly to Catawba Riverkeeper's mission to preserve, protect, and restore our lakes and streams. When you rent a kayak or book a tour, know that you are supporting education programs for kids and adults, water quality monitoring, science-based advocacy, and cleanups.

Rentals

Rent a kayak, canoe or standup paddle board for a 90-minute paddling experience on the South Fork River! You will launch from The Boathouse and easily paddle upstream for 1/2 mile until you reach the rocky shoals and will then float a 1/2 mile back. 

Eco-Tours

To celebrate Catawba Riverkeeper’s 25th anniversary this year, we invite YOU to explore YOUR basin with US! The Catawba-Wateree River Basin is fed by thousands of miles of tributary waters crossing two states, 26 counties, and dozens of distinct ecological zones. Hosted by a staff member of our Protect Team, come experience the headwaters near Lake James in North Carolina down through the river’s southern terminus at the Wateree River in South Carolina as it flows into the Congaree River. Each adventure offers a different experience whether kayaking on the water or hiking on land, for 1 hour or 7 hours, for beginners or experts, with your own equipment or rental gear from us. We look forward to exploring with you!

Full Moon Paddles

Paddle under the full moon’s glow and have fun with spooky stories, folklore, full moon rituals, and animals of the night!

Lessons

Learn basic river navigation and become a more confident paddler!Lessons are offered in various locations. You can learn to kayak or advance your skills! Kayak lessons are hosted by our professional kayak instructors with private 1-1 and group instruction to improve your paddling technique, water navigation and overall comfort to enjoy different types of water environments in your boat. Provide your own kayak and equipment or rent from the Boathouse.