The top ten boating places in St. Louis, Missouri, are known for their proximity to beautiful waterways, making them a great destination for boating enthusiasts. With the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers and various lakes and parks, St. Louis offers diverse options for boating activities, from leisurely paddles to more adventurous excursions.
Whether you’re looking to launch a boat, enjoy a day of kayaking, or explore serene lakes with friends and family, there are plenty of great spots in and around St. Louis to suit your boating needs. In this guide, we’ll explore the ten best boating places in St. Louis, highlighting each location’s unique features and experiences.
Boating Places in St. Louis
These boating places in St. Louis provide the perfect opportunity to get out on the water and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
1. Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park
Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park is a popular spot for boating and other water activities in St. Louis. Located in Maryland Heights, this 320-acre lake is perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. The park offers boat rentals for those without equipment, making it accessible for everyone. In addition to boating, the park features scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and fishing opportunities. The tranquil waters of Creve Coeur Lake, its convenient location, and family-friendly amenities make it a favorite destination for boating enthusiasts looking for a peaceful day on the water. Visit Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park
2. The Mississippi River
The mighty Mississippi River, which runs through the heart of St. Louis, is one of the most iconic boating locations in the region. Boaters can experience the thrill of cruising along one of the largest rivers in the world, with opportunities for powerboating, sailing, and fishing. Several marinas and boat ramps along the river provide easy access for launching boats, while guided river tours offer a more relaxed way to explore the water. Whether you’re an experienced boater or new to the sport, the Mississippi River offers a memorable and historic boating experience with stunning views of the Gateway Arch and downtown St. Louis.
3. Horseshoe Lake State Park
Located just across the Mississippi River in Illinois, Horseshoe Lake State Park is a beautiful destination for boating and outdoor recreation. The 2,960-acre lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with boat ramps available for easy access. The park is home to various wildlife, including migratory birds, making it a great spot for nature lovers to enjoy peaceful days on the water. In addition to boating, the park offers picnic areas, hiking trails, and camping facilities, making it a perfect getaway for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visit Horseshoe Lake State Park
4. Carlyle Lake
Carlyle Lake is the largest man-made lake in Illinois and a popular destination for boating, located just over an hour east of St. Louis. The lake covers over 26,000 acres and offers various boating activities, including sailing, powerboating, and fishing. There are several marinas, boat ramps, and campgrounds around the lake, making it a great spot for extended boating trips. Carlyle Lake is particularly known for its excellent sailing conditions, thanks to the steady winds that sweep across the water. Whether you’re an avid sailor or just looking for a relaxing day on the water, Carlyle Lake offers a top-tier boating experience. Visit Carlyle Lake
5. Lake of the Ozarks
Located about two and a half hours from St. Louis, Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri’s most popular boating destinations. Known for its extensive shoreline, the lake offers a variety of water activities, including powerboating, sailing, jet skiing, and tubing. With numerous marinas, boat rentals, and waterfront restaurants, Lake of the Ozarks is perfect for adventurous boaters and those looking to enjoy a leisurely day on the water. The area also hosts several annual boating events and regattas, drawing boating enthusiasts across the Midwest. Lake of the Ozarks’ combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities makes it a must-visit spot for boaters. Visit Lake of the Ozarks
6. Pere Marquette State Park
Pere Marquette State Park, located along the Illinois River about an hour from St. Louis, is a picturesque destination for boating and outdoor adventures. The Illinois River provides calm waters for canoeing, kayaking, and small motorboats, with stunning views of the surrounding bluffs and forested areas. Boaters can enjoy fishing or relax as they enjoy the river’s natural beauty. Pere Marquette State Park also offers camping, hiking, and picnic facilities, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway filled with outdoor activities. Visit Pere Marquette State Park
7. Portage des Sioux
Portage des Sioux, located in Portage des Sioux, Missouri, is a convenient boating access point to the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. This marina provides boaters with everything they need for a day on the water, including boat slips, a fuel dock, and maintenance services. The marina is known for its friendly staff and clean facilities, making it a popular stop for boaters exploring the local waterways. Whether fishing, cruising, or enjoying water sports, Rivers Pointe Marina offers easy access to some of the best boating in the St. Louis area. With its proximity to the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, it’s a great starting point for exploring these iconic rivers. Visit Portage des Sioux
8. Chain of Rocks Canal
The Chain of Rocks Canal, located just north of St. Louis on the Mississippi River, provides boaters with a unique navigating experience around the Rocks rapids. The canal bypasses the hazardous river section, allowing for safer passage for boaters exploring the Mississippi. This man-made waterway is used by commercial and recreational boaters alike and offers a smooth ride with views of the Chain of Rocks Bridge and the surrounding wetlands. While primarily a passageway, the canal provides a great opportunity to experience the Mississippi River from a new perspective. Learn more about the Chain of Rocks Canal
9. Lake St. Louis
Lake St. Louis is a private, residential community centered around two lakes providing ample boating, fishing, and watersports opportunities. Residents and their guests enjoy access to large and small lakes, where they can participate in activities like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The Lake St. Louis Community Association offers boat slips, marinas, and waterfront amenities, making it easy for residents to get out on the water. With well-maintained facilities and an active boating community, Lake St. Louis provides a serene and exclusive boating experience. Visit Lake St. Louis
10. Simpson Lake Park
Simpson Lake Park in Valley Park, Missouri, is a hidden gem for small watercraft boating. The 72-acre lake is ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with calm waters and scenic surroundings. The park offers a boat ramp for easy access and features fishing spots, picnic areas, and walking trails. Simpson Lake Park is a great spot for families and individuals looking for a peaceful day on the water without venturing far from St. Louis. Its quiet, natural setting makes it perfect for those seeking a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visit Simpson Lake Park
St. Louis Boating Places
St. Louis and its surrounding areas offer various boating destinations, from serene lakes to majestic rivers. Whether you’re looking to explore the Mississippi River, enjoy a peaceful paddle at a local park, or take a weekend trip to one of the larger lakes nearby, there’s something for every boater in and around St. Louis.
These ten locations provide diverse boating experiences, catering to casual paddlers and seasoned sailors. With easy access to marinas, boat ramps, and beautiful natural surroundings, these spots offer endless opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and fun on the water. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, explore these boating gems and experience the best that St. Louis has to offer.
