Kayaks

Kayaks at Watson Park

Enjoy time on the water at Watson Park in a kayak! We rent single and tandem kayaks. Rentals are available year around and a waiver must be completed. Kayak rental times are listed in the footer under "Rides Open" below. Receive basic instruction on kayak paddling techniques and safety. Then, you're off for a leisurely float.

Please check in at the office to rent a kayak by the hour. Riders must be 12 or older to rent a kayak. If under the age of 18, a guardian must be present to complete paperwork each time.

Kayak weight limit is 250 lbs. Every rider must wear a life jacket, which will be provided. Riders must leave photo ID in the office during rental.

Individuals may bring their own kayak to the park, the fee is $5 daily or $50 for an entire year.

Fee

$10

Click here to print and complete a waiver to turn in at the Watson Park concession building. Save time and complete the waiver in advance.

Reserve a Kayak

Saturday & Sunday River Rentals

River Rentals are unavailable at this time.

Fee

$10/hour

Arrive at the Old Gander Mountain dock to pay and launch.

Floating on the River

Enroll in one of our various float trips at sunrise, sunset, seniors or a glow float! Floats include personalized photos, food and beverages, along with a one of a kind experience.

Glow Tour

Enjoy a moonlight trip along the river with the stars shining overhead! You and the kayaks will be glowing with lights and glow sticks as you make your way to the Keeper of the Plains to watch the Ring of fire lighting from the water.

Register

Register online

Senior Tour

Spend some time learning kayaking basics and then set your course towards the Keeper of the Plains at a relaxed and easy pace. Not sure if you can make the return trip back? We have got you covered! The evening ends with a barbeque dinner on the patio of the Wichita Boathouse.

Register

Register online

Sunrise Tour

Launch just before twilight into the stillness of the morning and catch the glorious sunrise! Photos will be taken during the tour and at the Keeper of the Plains. The morning will end with a full breakfast on the patio of the Wichita Boathouse.

Register

Register online

Sunset Tour

Enjoy the glowing sky and ever-changing colors of the sunset on this tour! There's a brief stop for photos at the Keeper of the Plains and then it's back to the patio of the Wichita Boathouse to enjoy a barbeque dinner while relaxing to the sounds of soothing music.

Register

Register online

Kayak Clinic

Just go with the flow! This one-day kayak clinic which will provide participants instructions on kayak paddling techniques and maneuvering. Water safety will also be discussed. Then, kick back and enjoy perfecting those paddling skills with a leisurely trip on the water at Watson Park.

Register

Register online

Private Group Outings

Looking for that special way to bond with your friends doing something different? Does your business want to participate in a team building exercise? Are you trying to plan the perfect party for someone special? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to book a private float trip on the Arkansas River! We handle small and large group outings on the river and at Watson Park.

Contact

Call or email to plan your outing!

(316) 529-9940
RiverRecreation@wichita.gov

Bring Your Own

Individuals are welcome to bring their own kayak on the Arkansas River and to Watson Park from sunrise to sunset. Wichita Park & Recreation require you to sign a waiver when utilizing your own kayak at Watson Park.

Download

Click here to print and complete a waiver to turn in at the Watson Park concession building.