Sacramento State Aquatic Center
Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards on beautiful Lake Natoma. Perfect for students, families, and anyone seeking outdoor fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful water
Sacramento State Aquatic Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards on beautiful Lake Natoma. Perfect for students, families, and anyone seeking outdoor fun.
"Wonderful and quiet place. It was very easy to check in and get the safety equipment and the kayak."
✅ Book Online for Speed
Create an online account to expedite your check-in and secure your rental.
🛶 Plenty of Rental Options
Choose from SUPs, kayaks, and canoes for a fun day on the water.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
Lake Natoma
Glide across the calm waters of Lake Natoma on a kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Perfect for a peaceful afternoon.
Sailing Adventures
Lake Natoma
Experience the thrill of sailing on Lake Natoma. Even beginners can learn and enjoy the freedom of the open water.
Canoe Excursions
Lake Natoma
Explore Lake Natoma at your own pace in a canoe. Ideal for couples or families looking for a relaxed outing.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Rentals
Weekday Visits for Fewer Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
✅ Book Online for Speed
Create an online account to expedite your check-in and secure your rental.
🛶 Plenty of Rental Options
Choose from SUPs, kayaks, and canoes for a fun day on the water.
Sac State Aquatic Center
💰 Student Discounts Available
Sac State students can enjoy special rates on rentals.
🅿️ Easy Parking Access
Ample parking is available, making your arrival and departure hassle-free.
Kayak rental at Sacramento State Aquatic Center
Tips
from all over the internet
✅ Book Online for Speed
Create an online account to expedite your check-in and secure your rental.
🛶 Plenty of Rental Options
Choose from SUPs, kayaks, and canoes for a fun day on the water.
💰 Student Discounts Available
Sac State students can enjoy special rates on rentals.
🅿️ Easy Parking Access
Ample parking is available, making your arrival and departure hassle-free.
⏱️ Generous Rental Time
Your rental time starts when you're in the water, not when you check out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Sacramento State Aquatic Center for its beautiful location on Lake Natoma and the wide variety of affordable watercraft rentals. The staff are generally helpful, and the safety measures are reassuring, making it a great spot for families and students alike. Some minor improvements could be made to the check-in process to make it even faster.
"One of the best experiences I have ever had. I took my nephew sailing. He had gotten his certificate the summer prior and he was able to take me out on a 2 man sailboat, and show me the lake and we had a blast. I love the fact that it's so safe and so secure, and there's so many wonderful people around"
Jennifer Jones
"Wonderful and quiet place. It was very easy to check in and get the safety equipment and the kayak. The parking lot is easily accessible. I'll be back before the summer ends!!"
Denise Ribeiro
"Plenty of equipment to rent out between SUP, tandem kayaks, solo kayaks, canoes and very reasonable rates. Make sure to create an online account so you can move the checkin line quickly.
Sufficient parking available."
Prince Philip
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sacramento State Aquatic Center is located on Lake Natoma. Access is typically via Nimbus Dam Road. Ample parking is available on-site, making it easy to reach.
Information on public transportation routes can be found on the official Sacramento State Aquatic Center website or by checking local transit schedules.
There is sufficient parking available at the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, which is easily accessible for visitors.
The center primarily focuses on rentals. For specific rules regarding personal watercraft, it's best to check their official policies.
While specific accessibility details can vary, the center aims to be welcoming. It's recommended to contact them directly for information on accessible facilities and equipment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Sacramento State Aquatic Center itself is generally free, but you will need to rent equipment or sign up for programs. Booking rentals online in advance is highly recommended.
Rental rates are very reasonable. Specific pricing for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards can be found on their website under the 'Equipment Rentals' section.
Yes, Sacramento State students receive discounts on equipment rentals, making it an affordable option for campus recreation.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Sacramento State Aquatic Center website for the most up-to-date hours of operation for rentals and programs.
While not always strictly required, creating an online account and booking in advance is strongly advised to ensure availability and speed up your check-in process.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can rent a variety of watercraft, including solo kayaks, tandem kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs).
The Sacramento State Aquatic Center prioritizes safety. They provide safety equipment and instructions, and the lake is generally calm and secure.
Yes, the center offers sailing opportunities, including lessons and certifications, allowing you to learn to sail on Lake Natoma.
The center hosts various kids' groups and camps, especially during weekends, offering fun and educational water activities.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon on weekdays can offer a more peaceful experience.
📸 📸 Photography
The shores of Lake Natoma offer beautiful views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Renting a kayak or paddleboard allows for unique on-water photo opportunities.
Absolutely! Capturing your adventures on the water is encouraged. Just ensure your camera or phone is secured to prevent it from falling in.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and respect their privacy.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide soft, warm light that is ideal for landscape and action shots on the lake.
Photos of people enjoying kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and the scenic views of Lake Natoma and the surrounding nature are very popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Weekends often feature kids' groups and camps, which are a great way for children to learn new skills and make friends in a supervised setting. While weekends can be busier, arriving early can help you beat some of the crowds. The center's emphasis on safety ensures a worry-free experience for parents.
🎓 Sac State Students
Take advantage of the rental options like kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards for a fun afternoon with friends or a solo adventure. Remember to book online in advance to streamline your check-in and maximize your time on the water.
🧘♀️ Solo Adventurers & Couples
Couples can opt for a tandem kayak or canoe for a shared adventure, enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake together. Weekday visits are particularly recommended for a more serene and intimate experience. The reasonable rental prices make it an accessible and enjoyable activity for any pair.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Lake Natoma by Watercraft
It's important to note that while walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, booking your rental online in advance is highly recommended. This not only guarantees you'll get the equipment you want but also significantly speeds up the check-in process. Many visitors have found creating an online account to be a smooth and efficient way to manage their bookings.
When you arrive, the staff are helpful in getting you set up with safety gear and instructions. The rental time typically starts once you are actually in the water, giving you ample time to get settled and enjoy your excursion. The lake itself is known for its calm conditions, making it suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.
Sailing and Water Safety
Safety is a top priority at the Aquatic Center. All rentals come with necessary safety equipment, and staff are available to provide guidance and instructions. Visitors have commented on the secure and safe atmosphere, which contributes to a worry-free experience on the water.
Beyond rentals, the center also hosts various camps and programs, particularly for younger participants. These programs are designed to teach water sports skills in a fun and supervised setting. For anyone new to water activities, the center's focus on safety and instruction makes it an excellent choice for a first-time experience.
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