Posted on August 13th, 2020

Kalamazoo County may offer 83 lakes with public access but there is no place to explore like the Kalamazoo River! Stretching 135-miles from Albion to Saugatuck flowing into Lake Michigan,  the Kalamazoo River offers 27-riverfront developments, parks, and access sites. The North Branch of the Kalamazoo River runs into Lake Morrow which offers plenty of water-activities and flows out as the Kalamazoo River. Enjoy unique scenic views while soaking up the sun and cruising the water with these water activities;

Paddle Board, Kayak and Canoe

Whether you want to cruise the waters sitting, standing, rowing, or paddling – the Kalamazoo River is the place to do it! The Kalamazoo River is the perfect place to bring your paddle board, kayak, or canoes to explore the waters. If you don’t have your own water craft, don’t worry! Plainwell Kayak Company offers different routes and trips to choose from – 1, 2, or 3-hour trips. This is the perfect place for all skill levels to cruise the waterways. Be sure to make your appointment in advance to ensure availability.

Float down the river in ultimate comfort. Sit back, relax, and unwind while tubing the Kalamazoo River. Take time to soak up the sun and the awe-inspiring scenic views. You can access the river with your tube by any of the 50-access points along the Kalamazoo River! Don’t have a tube? No problem! U-Rent-Em-Canoe offers an incredible array of inflatables to float down the river. All tubes feature backings for an ultimate comfortable experience and cup holders!

The Kalamazoo Rivers offers the perfect conditions for shore-fishing. With the shallow waters comes easy wading. The newly paved walking trails leading up to the many access points for the most-experience fishing offers an easier way to access top fishing spots. Expect to reel in a variety of fish such as; Carp, Catfish, Smallmouth Bass, Sucker, Sunfish, Walleye, and Rock Bass! Soak-in the scenic views of the river and nature surrounding it. For more information on Kalamazoo River Fishing, visit these Resources.

Hike Along the River

Have you heard that Kalamazoo is home to the new Lake-To-Lake Trail? It reaches 275 miles across Michigan and touches 75 towns! The much-stop destination along the way, The Kalamazoo River! The Kalamazoo River Valley Trail and the Kal-Haven Trails make up 60-miles of the Lake-To-Lake trail and connects Kalamazoo to South Haven! A large-portion of the Kalamazoo River Valley Trail runs directly along the Kalamazoo River. Offering Instagram-worthy sights and nature views. Take the 23-mile trek through the KRVT while enjoying the Kalamazoo River.

Take a break from paddling, rowing, or hiking and cool off by taking a plunge into the river.  Be sure to watch out for passing kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and tubes while in the water. If you’re making your way down the river, be sure to stop off at the River Oaks County Park Beach! This county park is located on the shores of Morrow Lake, which connects the North Branch of the Kalamazoo River to the latter part of the river. Explore the River Oaks County Park by seeing how it got its name with the 100+ acres of oak tree’s. Enjoy a splash pad, dog park, soccer fields, and much more! There are plenty of other places to enjoy the many waterways of Kalamazoo County, be sure to check out them all!

There is no lack of fun to be had on the Kalamazoo River with a variety of different activities for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re heading to Kalamazoo to relax and rejuvenate or to explore the many wonders of the county, the Kalamazoo River is calling your name. Check out more to Play, Stay, Eat and Drink to experience Kalamazoo.