Dog-Friendly Kayaking in DC, Maryland, and Virginia

Outdoors

May 2

Are you ready to cool off in this heat? We’ve rounded up some of the best places in DC, Maryland, and Virginia where your dog is more than welcome to join you out on the water.

1. Penguin Paddling (Occoquan, VA)

201 Mill Street, Occoquan, VA 22125
Season opens 4/20/24
No reservations required
Kayaks and SUP
Launches in the Occoquan River

2. Potomac Boat Rentals (Woodbridge, VA)

16205 Neabsco Road, Woodbridge, VA 22191
Season open now
No reservations required
Kayaks and SUP
Launches in Neabsco Creek

3. Belle Haven Marina (Alexandria, VA)

Located off of George Washington Pkwy next to Belle Haven Park
Season open now
Reservations recommended, walk ins welcome
Kayaks and SUP
Launches in Potomac River

4. Boating in DC (Washington, DC)

Boating in DC operates several locations that are dog-friendly:
Reservations highly recommended, tours available
Season open now

Ballpark Boathouse: Near Nationals Park
Fletcher’s Cove Boathouse
District Wharf
Key Bridge Boathouse: Near Georgetown
Thompson Boat Center

7. BMore SUP (baltimore, md)

Sue Creek & Inner Harbor
Season opens 5/19/24
They also have special doggie paddle tours available
SUPs

8. Whoof on the Wharf (edgewater, md)

48 S. River Road Pier 7 Edgewater, MD 21037
Season opens 5/25/24
Kayaks and SUP
Dog life jackets available for rent for $5

9. Capital SUP (Annapolis, md)

600 Quiet Waters Park Rd, Annapolis, MD 21403
Season opens 5/24/24
Kayaks and SUP

10. REI Co-op (oxon hill, md)

168 National Plaza, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Season open now
Kayaks and SUP

Tips for Kayaking with Your Dog

Before you head out, remember a few tips to make your kayaking trip with your dog as enjoyable as possible:

Ensure your dog is comfortable with water and has a life jacket - no matter how good of a swimmer they are.
Bring along water and snacks for both you and your pet.
Make frequent stops if needed, especially on longer trips.
Always follow local regulations regarding pets in public areas.

Whether you’re a resident of the DMV area or just visiting, these dog-friendly kayaking companies offer wonderful opportunities to explore nature with your pet. So grab a paddle, don a life jacket, and prepare for an adventure!