Can I rent kayaks for longer than one hour?

Currently, rentals are offered in one-hour increments to maintain availability for all visitors.

Are life jackets provided with rentals?

Yes, all rentals come with Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices.

Is prior paddling experience required?

No experience is necessary, but basic instruction is provided upon rental.

Are there restroom facilities nearby?

Yes, Van Riper State Park has visitor restrooms close to the rental area.

Can I take my rental kayak onto the Peshekee River?

Yes, paddling on both Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River is permitted and encouraged.

What wildlife might I see during my paddle?

Visitors often spot osprey, loons, and occasionally deer near the shorelines.

Waterfront Kayak Rentals at Van Riper State Park, MI | Eco Tour | Water Activities

Located in Ontonagon, Michigan, Van Riper State Park spreads across 1,055 acres along the tranquil shores of Lake Michigamme and the Peshekee River. This park offers a remarkable blend of lush forests, wetland edges, and peaceful waterfront vistas, making it an ideal setting for a brief, refreshing paddle. The 1.5 miles of shoreline provide a perfect backdrop for those seeking to step into nature with 1 Hour Rentals’ kayak and paddleboard offerings. These rentals provide easy access to the park’s serene waters, allowing visitors to glide gently while absorbing the calm environment.

This modest stretch of Lake Michigamme isn’t just scenic; it’s a crucial habitat for local freshwater species, including osprey and common loons, visible from the water. The Peshekee River’s clear flow enhances the appeal for those keen on water activities that combine leisure with a dash of nature watching. Van Riper State Park’s unique mix of pine and hardwood forests adds a coastal forest character uncommon in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, giving paddlers a diverse natural palette.

The rental experience here stands out because of its intimate scale. Without the crowding typical of larger parks, paddlers enjoy a quiet encounter with nature accompanied by educational prompts raising awareness of Michigan’s waterway conservation efforts. This focus enriches each trip, connecting visitors to regional environmental stewardship.

Whether newcomers or casual paddlers stop by, the rentals offer a simple yet meaningful way to unplug and appreciate this Upper Peninsula gem. For those staying in Ontonagon, just a short drive leads to these calm waters and the chance to witness a quieter side of Michigan wilderness during a concise, hour-long outing.

About Simple Adventures

Simple Adventures is an outdoor rental company based in Ontonagon, Michigan, offering watercraft rentals across multiple state parks and lakes. The company provides flexible rental durations—one, two, three, four, and eight-hour options—so visitors can choose short outings or extended explorations. Trips operate at Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park, Fort Custer State Park, Interlochen State Park, Newburgh Lake, and New Baltimore waters, highlighting Michigan’s diverse waterways.

Simple Adventures focuses on safe, accessible recreation and environmental awareness. Equipment is maintained to industry standards, and rental options are suited for solo paddlers, families, and small groups seeking nature-based experiences. Clear trip summaries inform customers about expected scenery and educational elements related to waterway conservation.

Booking and customer service procedures are transparent: trip names, durations, and locations are published for each rental, and clients receive concise pre-trip information. The company's local presence in Ontonagon supports regional stewardship and familiarity with trailheads and launch points.

Visitors can expect peaceful paddling, wildlife viewing, and scenic shoreline access tailored to the chosen park or lake. Short one-hour rentals offer quick introductions to local waterways; multi-hour and full-day rentals enable deeper exploration of Porcupine Mountain and other natural areas. Simple Adventures' public-facing materials emphasize respect for habitat and promote awareness of Michigan’s water resources.

By operating across multiple established parks and lakes and offering clear rental durations, Simple Adventures provides reliable, place-based outdoor rental services that connect guests to Michigan’s natural waterways. Reservations are available seasonally and adapt to weather and park regulations as needed throughout the year.

Waterfront Kayak Rentals at Van Riper State Park, MI

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