Discover serenity and adventure at W. Kerr Scott Lake in North Carolina. Rent a kayak and enjoy paddling through pristine waters surrounded by mountain views, perfect for all skill levels and multi-day trips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity; suitable for most paddlers with basic strength and endurance
Wildlife
History
W. Kerr Scott Lake was created in the 1960s as part of North Carolina’s efforts to manage water resources and provide recreation.
Conservation
The lake’s management emphasizes habitat preservation and sustainable recreation to protect local ecosystems.
Upper Yadkin Outfitters
Discover serenity and adventure at W. Kerr Scott Lake in North Carolina. Rent a kayak and enjoy paddling through pristine waters surrounded by mountain views, perfect for all skill levels and multi-day trips.
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.
Check water conditions daily
Make sure to review current water flow and weather before paddling to ensure safety and optimal conditions.
Bring layered clothing
Layered clothing helps adjust to changing weather and keeps you comfortable on and off the water.
Use sunscreen and hats
Protect yourself from sun exposure during long hours on the water with sunscreen and sun hats.
Carry a lightweight dry bag
Keep your valuables and electronics dry, especially for multi-day adventures.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
A PFD is essential for safety during kayaking in any weather.
Sun protection gear
Includes sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against UV rays.
Layered clothing
Adjust clothing layers based on weather conditions for comfort.
spring, summer, fall, winter
Dry bag
Keeps your valuables dry during multi-day trips.