Discover the serenity and recreational riches of W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir. Rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy a peaceful day paddling in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with great fishing and scenic views all around.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no prior experience needed
Wildlife
History
The dam was constructed in the 1960s as part of regional efforts to control water flow and provide recreation, becoming a vital spot for local outdoor life.
Conservation
The reservoir is part of ongoing efforts to maintain water quality and habitat preservation, encouraging sustainable recreation and wildlife protection.
Upper Yadkin Outfitters
Discover the serenity and recreational riches of W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir. Rent a kayak or canoe and enjoy a peaceful day paddling in the Blue Ridge Mountains, with great fishing and scenic views all around.
Upper Yadkin Outfitters is a paddlesports business based in Lenoir, North Carolina, offering kayak and canoe rentals and guided-style river adventures across the Upper Yadkin watershed and W. Kerr Scott Lake.
The company lists multi-day and single-day rentals for single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and canoes at W. Kerr Scott Dam and Reservoir, a 1,475-acre lake in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Trip options include day rentals at the reservoir and multi-day rental packages, plus river journeys such as Laytown to Marley’s Ford, Laytown to Ferguson, and Buffalo to Laytown. These experiences pass historic landmarks including Fort Defiance and sites associated with local history, and provide opportunities for wildlife observation and on-water fishing.
Many trip descriptions note suitability for paddlers of all skill levels and family-friendly outings. Upper Yadkin Outfitters focuses on local waterways — W. Kerr Scott Lake and sections of the Yadkin River — and markets trips that combine scenic paddling with regional history. Listings emphasize exploration of the reservoir’s shoreline and river stretches that reveal remnants of past logging towns and regional landmarks. Trip summaries highlight the natural setting of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the reservoir’s ample water area for exploration. Visitors can choose single- or two-person craft and one-way river passes that traverse historically significant stretches of the Yadkin. All public information describes a steady offering of rentals and river adventures operated from Lenoir, North Carolina. Trip listings repeatedly reference family outings, fishing opportunities, and paddling access points along the reservoir and river.
Location
Lenoir, NC
Operates on local waterways
Primary Lake
W. Kerr Scott (1,475 acres)
Blue Ridge Mountains setting
Trips Offered
7 distinct trips
Rentals and river adventures available
Craft Types
Kayak & Canoe
Single and two-person choices
Choose single, tandem, or canoe rentals and pick the day or multi-day option that fits the trip listed.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat to stay protected during your water day.
Check weather forecast
Ensure good weather conditions before heading out to avoid storms or high winds.
Bring your fishing gear
The reservoir offers excellent fishing, so pack your rods and tackle box.
Arrive early for rentals
Getting there early ensures availability and avoids midday crowds.
Sun hat
Protects against sun exposure while paddling.
summer
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from harmful UV rays during outdoor water activities.
summer
Life jacket
Required safety gear for all paddlers to ensure safety on the water.
Waterproof bag
Keeps your valuables dry during the trip.