A great way to enjoy your river is getting up close and personal by canoe or kayak. Blackstone Valley has several river access points for canoes or kayaks; why not get out and explore the Blackstone River.

Easy Paddling Spots

All these spots are perfect for beginning paddlers, and if you don’t have your own kayak there is information below about kayak rentals.

Olney Pond, Lincoln Woods – The centerpiece of Lincoln Woods, Olney pond offers many coves and islands to explore.  MORE INFO

Slatersville Reservoir, North Smithfield: This site also has coves to explore. The eastern portion of the reservoir is largely wooded.  MORE INFO

Valley Falls Pond, Central Falls/Cumberland: Put in at Central Falls Landing and travel north to Pratt Dam approximately 2 miles. Explore coves of Lonsdale Marsh and look for signs of wildlife including beaver, great blue heron, green heron, painted turtles and muskrats. MORE INFO

Guided Trips, Rentals and Paddling Groups

If you don’t have your own canoe or kayak or would like some guidance – check out the following resources: 

Providence Kayaks: Offers rentals at Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods. 

Blackstone River Watershed Council/Friends of the Blackstone: Offering monthly guided trips through August –  Click Here for Dates

Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council: Sponsors paddling trips on the Woonasquatucket River including the communities of Smithfield and Gloucester. PADDLING INFO

Rhode Island Canoe and Kayak Association – Guided trips with Blackstone Valley Paddle Club and links to waterway maps. 

Blackstone Valley Tourism Council known for its Explorer River Tour programs (which are on hiatus until the Fall) would like to announce the launch of the Blackstone River Expeditions, which has two components:  

1. The Central Falls Youth Kayak Program, a free kayak instruction for youth from Central Falls in partnership with the City of Central Falls. 
2. River Expeditions, Kayak and canoe rentals available at Central Falls Landing starting later this summer.

Remember to always wear a life jacket or PFD and respect private property. For more safe paddling tips visit Exploreri.org.