Galien River Kayaking & Stand-Up Paddleboarding

Beautiful float on the river! Nice easy flowing river for any skill level. Great family outing!

The Galien River is a great place to kayak and it would be perfect for first time stand-​up paddle boarding since the river is so calm. We rented 2 kayaks and saw many geese and several cool homes on the river. It was very relaxing.
I would suggest bringing a change of clothes because your lower half will get wet!

I picked this place to take my first try at stand-​up paddleboarding. The the folks here are chill and yet helpful, they have plenty of equipment so we had no trouble getting out on the river in the middle of a beautiful July day, and most importantly, the river is beautiful. We saw lots of geese and dragonflies, a few amphibians, and lots of interesting plants and flowers. Between that and the hot, still, humidity, it reminded me of Florida.
It took us a little more than two hours to paddle out to the harbor and back. I’m interested in going back and exploring more, perhaps in a kayak this time.

The Galien River is very calm and easy to kayak through. It’s only about six feet deep, so it’s not like it’s a roaring rapids.
My girlfriend had never kayaked before, but she picked it up quickly. We rented a 2-​person kayak ($ 25/​hour) and had a lovely time floating down the river.
The young guy manning the desk was very helpful, sharing a map and advice about avoiding the areas of the river that have been choked off by lily pads.
They’ll hook you up with a kayak, paddles and a life vest. (It needs to be in the boat with you, but you don’t have to wear it.)
We saw lots of birds and dragonflies, but not much other wildlife. As you paddle down the river, you see some cool looking homes and the tall observation platform from Galien River Park.
This is an awesome way to burn an hour or two when you’re in New Buffalo. Minimal experience is required.
Tips:
* Wear sunscreen
* Bring a bottle of water.
* You will get a little wet, but probably not drenched.
* Leave your shoes and socks on the shore or in your car.
* Put the more experienced person in the back. It’s easier to steer there.