Canoe & Kayak Rentals at Ipswich River

Travel the Ipswich River by Canoe or Kayak

The 2026 paddling season runs from Saturday, May 23-Monday, October 12, 2026. 

Visitors can check in at the Visitors Center and rent a canoe or kayak from 9:00 am-3:30 pm daily. Beginning on October 4, the sanctuary is closed on Mondays (except holidays).

Availability is limited, and bookings occur on a first-come, first-serve basis. We are unable to reserve boats.

We provide paddles and personal flotation devices.

Canoe & Kayak Rental Fees

Member Rate: $30 for the first 2 hours and $15 for every additional hour, per canoe or kayak.
Nonmember Rate: $40 for 2-hour rental, and $15 for each additional hour, per canoe or kayak.

Rules & Restrictions

• Renters must be at least 18 years of age; maximum of 2 boats per rental.
• A signed waiver is required for each participant at the time of check-in.
• Each canoe accommodates a maximum of 3 adults or 2 adults with 2 small children.
• Each kayak accommodates 1 adult.
• Only use Mass Audubon provided canoes or kayaks; no private boats allowed.
• Boats may not enter Bunker Meadows.
• All persons must always wear a USCG-rated Level III Personal Floatation Device (PFD) for the appropriate size/weight while in a canoe.
• Carry out what you carry in; remove all waste from the sanctuary.
• Please leave dogs and other pets at home. (Service animals welcome.)
• No fishing, swimming, or feeding wildlife
• Rentals will be suspended during severe weather warnings, which include thunderstorms, high winds, and extreme heat events. We reserve the right to refuse rentals for safety concerns or otherwise. You may call ahead to confirm whether rentals are being offered on a particular day.

Good to Know

• Canoe landing and boat rack is a 0.4-mile hike (approximately 10-15 minutes) from the Visitors Center down the Bunker Meadows Trail to the Ipswich River Trail.
• Canoes and kayaks are locked on canoe racks. Canoes are heavy (70-80 pounds), requiring 2 adults to lift canoe from racks and carry to the water's edge.
• When leaving our canoe landing, we recommend paddling upstream first and returning with the downstream current.
• We advise wearing close-toed shoes that can get wet.
• Bring a dry bag to protect valuables, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water.
• River conditions vary throughout the year based on water levels and beaver activity. Paddlers may encounter obstructions that could hinder passage or make a brief portage necessary.