7 canoeing, tubing + more destinations around Greater Birmingham

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Enjoy life outdoors at Canopy Park Apartments in Pelham. (Bham Now)
Lake Nicol is only about an hour away from Birmingham. (Bham Now)

It’s heating up in Alabama, and now is the perfect time to get out on the water.

Grab your sunscreen and prepare to explore these five nearby kayaking, canoeing and tubing spots just a short drive from the Birmingham area.

1. Taylor Riverside Park at Locust Fork River

Kayaking
Kayakers on the gorgeous Locust Fork River. Photo via Helen Hays

Located in Blount County, Locust Fork River is a hidden gem with great fishing, biodiversity, small rapids and tons of native vegetation.

In April of this year, Blount County opened Taylor Riverside Park which serves as a public access point to the river featuring a boat ramp, parking and other amenities.

2. Old Overton Boat Launch

IMG 0007 7 canoeing, tubing + more destinations around Greater Birmingham
My personal favorite spot to canoe. (Grace Howard / Bham Now)

This Cahaba River access point is a great destination for those looking for a nearby canoe spot not too far out of Birmingham. Located off Old Overton Road, it provides amenities like parking, picnic tables and easy access to the river.

3. Limestone Park Canoe and Tube

It’s more than just a canoe and tube rental—Limestone Park offers fun activities for the whole family.

Spend the day floating down the river and enjoy quality time with your best buds.

4. Lakes at Oak Mountain State Park

Lake on Forever Wild Belcher Property
Oak Mountain State Park is huge, with something for everyone. (Pat Byington/Bham Now)

As Alabama’s largest park, Oak Mountain State Park is a local favorite location for canoeing, kayaking and fishing.

At Oak Mountain, you’ll find three lakes to paddle around in: Double Oak, Lunker and Oak Mountain lakes. Of the three, Double Oak is the largest with a beach, marina and boat rentals. For those looking for a smaller and quieter location, try out Lunker and Oak Mountain lakes.

5. Moon River Canoe Launch

Located in Trussville off of US-78, this Cahaba River boat launch is a favorite among paddlers and hikers alike. Featuring walking trails that lead to the river’s edge, this section of the river features great fishing and all kinds of stunning native vegetation.

6. Lake Nicol

tuscaloosa outdoors
Check out that view! (Bham Now)

About an hour outside of Birmingham lies Lake Nicol, a small but beautiful lake with scenic cliff views and hiking trails. This lake is known as a great beginner’s spot for those who want to canoe, kayak, paddleboard and fish in peace.

7. Redneck Yacht Club

From the second I heard about the Redneck Yacht Club, I was hooked.

Float down Terrapin Creek and forget all your worries this summer.

Here’s a glance at what they offer:

  • Kayak rentals
  • Shuttle service
  • Campgrounds
  • Cabin rentals
  • Creekside pavilion rental
  • Creekside Cafe at The “Hippie Hole”
  • and more!

Enjoy the Alabama outdoors

Want to learn more about summer recreation in Alabama? Check out these top stories:

Birmingham, where are you cooling off this summer? Tag us and let us know your favorite spots @bhamnow!

Grace Howard
Grace Howard
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