Looking for a way to slow down, soak up the views, and still keep your trip full of adventure? Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding in Broken Bow let you do exactly that. With the glassy surface of Broken Bow Lake and the flowing waters of the Mountain Fork River, you’ll find peaceful coves, hidden trails, and plenty of spots for a refreshing swim along the way.
When you’re staying at Grandview Heights, you don’t have to drive far to get on the water—the marina and river outfitters are just a short trip away. Whether you’re paddling with kids, planning a romantic glide at sunset, or trying stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) for the first time, here’s your guide to the best spots and rental options in the area.
🚣 Broken Bow Lake: Calm Coves & Crystal Waters
Broken Bow Lake is the crown jewel for paddling. With over 14,000 acres of clear, turquoise water surrounded by pine-covered hills, it feels like a slice of the Pacific Northwest tucked into Oklahoma. Unlike busy speedboat areas, the lake has plenty of quiet coves that are perfect for kayakers and paddleboarders.
Best Areas to Paddle on the Lake:
- Stevens Gap Area – Easy access near the marina, calm waters, and plenty of scenic shoreline.
- Cedar Creek Cove – Known for its still water and great birdwatching. Perfect for an early morning paddle.
- Eagle Bay – A bit more secluded, great for couples or solo paddlers looking for peace and quiet.
Rental Options Near the Lake:
- Beavers Bend Marina (2 miles from Grandview) – Offers kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes along with boat rentals. Convenient if you want to combine a paddle with a day on the water.
- PaddleSUP Oklahoma (based at the marina) – Specializes in SUP boards for all levels and often hosts sunrise or sunset group paddles.
👉 After a morning of paddling, head back to Grandview Heights, where the hot tub and deck views let you keep that lakefront vibe without leaving home.
🌊 Lower Mountain Fork River: Scenic Floats & Gentle Rapids
If you’d rather go with the flow, the Lower Mountain Fork River is your spot. Famous for trout fishing, it also offers some of the best river paddling in Oklahoma. With a steady current, gentle rapids, and shady forested banks, it’s perfect for families or anyone wanting an easy-going float.
Popular Float Trips:
- Shady Oaks to Presbyterian Falls – A 3-mile stretch that combines calm waters with a few fun Class I–II rapids.
- Presbyterian Falls to Beavers Bend State Park – Longer float with scenic bluffs and great swimming holes.
Where to Rent:
- Beavers Bend River Floats – Family-friendly, calm canoe trips near the state park. Great for beginners and younger kids.
- Yippie Kayo Kayaks – Offers shuttles, single and tandem kayaks, and guided river trips.
- Lucky Dog River Floats – Known for group outings, perfect if your crew wants to paddle together.
Pro Tip: Water levels can fluctuate depending on dam release—so check conditions or go with an outfitter who knows the river well.
👉 A river float is the perfect way to spend a warm afternoon, and when you’re done, Grandview Heights is just a short drive away. Dry off, fire up the grill, and relive your favorite rapids over dinner on the deck.
🏄 Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in Broken Bow
If you’ve never tried SUP before, Broken Bow Lake is the perfect beginner spot. Calm coves give you space to find your balance, and once you get the hang of it, standing tall on the water with pine trees all around feels unforgettable.
Where to SUP:
- Cedar Creek Cove – Flat water, great for learning.
- Sunrise Paddle at Stevens Gap – Local outfitters sometimes organize guided morning paddles, where you might catch mist rising off the lake.
- Sunset Sessions at Eagle Bay – Perfect for couples who want a more romantic setting.
Who to Rent From:
- PaddleSUP Oklahoma – The go-to for stand-up paddleboarding in Hochatown. They offer lessons, group sessions, and solo rentals.
👉 After balancing on the water, you’ll appreciate sinking into the cushioned comfort of the Grandview Heights hot tub even more.
🌅 Best Times to Paddle
- Morning: Calmest waters and quiet coves—ideal for wildlife watching.
- Afternoon: Great for swimming breaks and a family-friendly adventure.
- Evening: Cooler temps and golden light, perfect for couples’ paddles.
Season-wise, late spring through early fall (May–September) is prime time for warm-weather paddling, but mild Oklahoma winters mean you can sometimes paddle year-round with the right gear.
🦅 Wildlife You Might Spot from the Water
- Bald Eagles & Osprey – Often circling near the lake.
- Deer & Wild Turkey – Drinking along the riverbanks.
- Otters & Beavers – Occasionally seen playing in quiet coves.
Pack a waterproof camera—you never know what will pop up along your route.
🧺 Make It a Full Day
Combine paddling with other nearby activities for a memorable day:
- Morning paddle on the lake → Afternoon hike in Beavers Bend State Park → Evening s’mores around Grandview Heights’ firepit.
- River float trip → Picnic at the park → Sunset paddleboard session before heading back to the cabin.
🏡 Back Home at Grandview Heights
The best part of paddling in Broken Bow? You’re never far from the comfort of your cabin. Grandview Heights makes the perfect home base for any water adventure:
- Private hot tub to relax sore paddling muscles.
- Outdoor firepit for stories and stargazing after a day on the river.
- Deck with sweeping views to keep the nature vibes going.
- Arcade & game room to keep the fun alive indoors if everyone’s worn out.
After a day gliding across the water, you’ll love coming home to a cabin that feels just as adventurous as the outdoors you spent exploring.
Final Splash
From quiet morning paddles on Broken Bow Lake to fun-filled river floats down the Mountain Fork, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding here aren’t just activities—they’re a way to slow down and truly take in the beauty of southeastern Oklahoma.
👉 Book your stay at Grandview Heights today, and let your next story begin with a paddle in hand and the pines all around.