Canoe and Kayak Rentals

Come explore the Patuxent River by canoe or kayak at Jug Bay! Patuxent River Park offers canoe and kayak rentals April through October at Jug Bay Natural Area. Daily rentals require reservations. Rentals begin at 8:30 am and all boats must be returned by 3:30 pm. Overnight canoe and kayak rentals are available when renting Canoe Camp, Selby’s Camp, or one of our Patuxent Water Trail campsites.

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Rental Requirements & Details

  • Renters must be 18 years or older
  • Persons 17 and under must have an adult (18 or older) on the water with them at all times
  • Kayakers must be 12 or older
  • Renters must have a driver's license or government-issued identification with birth date verification
  • A Personal Flotation Device (life jacket) is provided to all boaters and must be worn at all times while on the water
  • Renters are encouraged to create a float plan (PDF) and share with an emergency contact who is not a part of the trip
  • Additional fees will apply to the following: late returns, lost and/or damaged equipment, or rental agreement violations
Daily Rentals  
Residents $20
Non-Residents $26
Overnight Rentals  
Residents $25
Non-Residents $33

To reserve your canoe or kayak, please call 301-627-6074. Park staff reserve the right to cancel rentals in the event of inclement weather.

Additionally, we offer guided canoe and kayak trips for groups, led by a certified American Canoe Association instructor. For details, please call the park.

The Patuxent Water Trail offers paddlers access to much of the river to camp along its banks and visit its numerous parks, historic sites, sanctuaries, and wildlife areas. Upriver paddle access begins at Governor Bridge Natural Area (#58). For more detailed information, please visit the website.