Kayaking is a wonderful sport enjoyed by people of all ages. For anyone living in or visiting the state of Texas, the waterways open a wide range of possibilities to enjoy exploring by kayak. If you’ve just moved here, you can experience the beauty of the state’s landscape by venturing to some recommended destinations. Thanks to the folks at Apple Moving San Antonio for helping us put this list together. This company performs local and long distance relocations and is known as one of the best moving companies in the state. For assistance with your next move, be sure to call them for a free quote. Here are their recommendations for the top kayaking destinations in the Lone Star State:

Brazos River

Consider a journey down this beautiful river, which offers plenty of thrills and excitement for experienced kayakers. Embark from Possum Kingdom Lake about 2 hours northwest of Fort Worth, and paddle all the way to Highway 4. Along the 19-mile excursion, you will pass rugged granite cliffs and the scenic Palo Pinto Mountains. You have the option of extending your journey to Highway 180 for a total of 38 miles. Although there are no established campsites, you are free to set up a tent on the sand bars to rest along the trip. If you’d rather not haul your own boat, check out the rental options from Rochelle’s Canoe and Kayak Rentals just down the river.

Caddo Lake

The unique landscape of Caddo Lake in East Texas more closely resembles what one might expect to see in Florida. The waterways are filled with mature cypress trees decorated with Spanish moss. This lake offers more than 26,000 acres of bayous and swamps, with 10 paddling routes or more than 50 miles of waterways to explore. Meander your way through the impressive cypress forest, and see if you can spot some of the more than 70 species of fish who call this body of water home. Caddo Lake State Park offers canoe rentals if you do not have your own kayak.

Lady Bird Lake, which is part of the Colorado River, runs through the heart of Central Austin.

Guadalupe River

The speed of the river’s flow is dependent on the amount of water released by the dam and features everything from clear, calm waters perfect for trout fishing to Class III rapids. While making your way down the river, you are treated to views which include banks lined with mature trees, boulder gardens, and cascading waterfalls tumbling off rugged cliffs. Be aware that some stretches of the Guadalupe are popular for recreational tubing, especially during the hot summer months. Put in at New Braunfels, which is conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio.

Lady Bird Lake

This beautiful body of water runs through the heart of Austin and features paddling routes extending from three to 11 miles in length. The location also offers the option of renting canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards from one of the several easily accessible docks (try Rowing Dock or Austin Rowing Club). Enjoy the beautiful outdoors along with great views of the Austin skyline.

You will also catch a glimpse of the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse, which was originally constructed during the Civil War years and remains in use today.

Lighthouse Lakes

Although called lakes, these waterways are in fact flats and tidal channels along the Gulf Coast whose calm waters are ideal for beginner kayakers. Routes vary from a little over one mile to nearly seven miles in length. Do some fishing along the way or keep your eye out for waterfowl. You will also catch a glimpse of the historic Lydia Ann Lighthouse, which was originally constructed during the Civil War years and remains in use today.

Morgan’s Point Resort

Morgan’s Point serves as a launching point and is situated on Belton Lake on the outskirts of Killeen. From the lake, there are three paddling routes called Camp Kachina, Mother Neff, and Tanyard Springs, which take kayakers on journeys spanning one to three hours. Along the way, the landscape includes secluded coves and majestic bluffs.