Starting from atop the Cascade Mountains, the Willamette River, one of the largest rivers in Oregon, starts its journey. The river provides a wide variety of paddling experiences on its itinerary and will be hosting a relaxation water trail that will allow many adventurous kayakers to explore almost three hundred miles of this natural beauty. Corvallis is midway on its journey, providing extraordinary woodlands for paddling above or below this city.

Access Points on The Willamette River

There are many marked access points in the Corvallis area will offer you many access points to put your kayak in at to access the Willamette river. Half Moon Landing & Riverside Bend to the north part of the town, and Willamette Park to the south side, provide a good area to setup your tent and serves as a perfect base camp place for camping or kayaking. For those who may love to shop or dine, Riverside Park from Corvallis will include tie-ups as well as modest access to attractions along the river.

For a good listing of access points download the complete Willamette River Recreation Guide from the government of oregon, it is attached at the bottom of this page.

Historic Sites Along The River

Kayaking across the Willamette River from Corvallis and visiting what has remained from the Orleans town, which was wiped out in a flood in 1861, will definitely be a great choice. A historic church as well as a cemetery will be the first features for exploring. John Smith Island or Kiger Island, in the south part of Corvallis, were some time ago the towns of Booneville and Burlington. The shallow channels for accessing them will make this an exciting adventure which is exclusive for those who enjoy kayaking.

Willamette River Hazards

The Willamette River Water Trail Map will clearly mark not only the access points of the river but well known hazards as well. While the nature along the river close to Corvallis is calm and wide, narrow channels of both sides along the Willamette`s islands may be treacherous and swift, requiring from you to be able to change directions quite rapidly. Motorised boats are permitted along the Willamette River, so pay attention and try to observe all the rules of boating when kayaking along this area. Also, some really interesting Willamette Valley tours are also being provided around the area.

When to Go Kayaking

Corvallis will enjoy 4 distinct mild seasons, July and August being the warmest months hovering in the low 80s. Winter season will bring temperatures in the 50s, with spring and fall remaining in the high of mid-60s and 70s. Early November through late January will see the most precipitation, but mid temperatures may occur so wear a dry-suit or wet-suit while kayaking the Willamette River which is an enjoyable sport during any period of time per year.