For those who love the water, few experiences compare to exploring some of America's most stunning national parks by boat. Whether navigating remote wilderness lakes, cruising along rugged coastlines, or paddling through mangrove forests, boating offers a new way to experience these natural wonders.
The Top National Parks To Explore By Boat
Whether you're a kayaker, powerboater, or looking to relax on the water, these parks offer unforgettable experiences. Each destination offers something unique, from hidden sea caves and remote islands to historical forts and wildlife-rich waters.
1. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida
Located about 70 miles west of Key West, this remote park is accessible only by boat or seaplane, making it a must for boaters seeking solitude and stunning scenery.
The park is made up of seven small islands and the surrounding crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico. It's home to the historic Fort Jefferson, one of the largest 19th-century forts in the U.S.
Visitors can snorkel among thriving coral reefs, explore shipwrecks, and encounter marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish. The lack of development and pristine waters make this a boating paradise.
2. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Boating through the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior offers one of the most breathtaking water-based experiences in the Midwest.
This group of 21 islands features impressive sea caves, sandstone cliffs, and old-growth forests. Boaters can explore the waters by power boat or kayak, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the islands on foot.
The Apostle Islands are also famous for their historic lighthouses; several are accessible by boat. The clear waters and dramatic shorelines make this location ideal for water-based exploration.
3. Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
Situated in the northwestern part of Lake Superior, Isle Royale is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. It's known for its rugged wilderness, dense forests, and isolated waters, which are best explored by boat.
Kayaking, canoeing, and power boating are popular here, with visitors often embarking on multi-day trips to explore the island's hidden bays, inlets, and surrounding smaller islands.
The underwater shipwrecks around Isle Royale also attract scuba divers, adding to the sense of adventure for boaters.
4. Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Almost half of Voyageurs National Park is covered by interconnected lakes, making it a water-lovers paradise. Boaters can navigate through a system of lakes, rivers, and islands that create a sense of wilderness adventure.
Popular activities include house boating, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing, with plenty of remote campsites only accessible by boat. The park's calm waters, dense forests, and abundant wildlife (including bald eagles and moose) make it one of the best parks for extended boating trips.
5. Channel Islands National Park, California
Located off the coast of Southern California, this collection of five islands is a boater's playground. The rugged coastline, hidden sea caves, and kelp forests make it a top destination for sea kayakers and boaters seeking a marine wilderness.
Visitors can explore secluded beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and spot marine life, including dolphins, sea lions, and occasionally whales. Boating here offers a sense of remoteness that contrasts sharply with the busy mainland, making it a special place to escape.
6. Biscayne National Park, Florida
Located just outside of Miami, Biscayne National Park is 95% underwater, offering boaters the chance to explore coral reefs, mangrove forests, and the remains of old shipwrecks.
Boaters can snorkel, dive, or cruise the turquoise waters to enjoy the stunning scenery. The park is part of the Florida Keys reef system, one of the most extensive barrier reefs in the world.
The warm, clear waters and diverse marine life, including manatees, sea turtles, and tropical fish, make it a favorite for boaters and water enthusiasts.
7. Everglades National Park, Florida
The Everglades offer a unique boating experience through a network of slow-moving rivers, marshes, and mangrove forests. Visitors can explore the park's freshwater and saltwater ecosystems via airboat, kayak, or canoe.
While boating, you'll have the chance to see an incredible array of wildlife. The maze-like waterways create an adventurous experience, especially for kayakers and canoers looking to navigate through the remote and wild parts of the park.
8. Acadia National Park, Maine
Acadia National Park, located along Maine's rugged coastline, offers some beautiful boating opportunities. Bar Harbor is a popular launching point for exploring the park's rocky coastline and nearby islands by boat.
Visitors can take guided boat tours to see puffins, seals, and even whales. Kayakers can enjoy paddling along Frenchman Bay's shorelines, and plenty of small, secluded islands exist to explore.
While Acadia is more famous for its land-based activities, the coastal views from the water offer a new perspective of this stunning national park.
9. Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland/Virginia
Well-known for its wild horses that roam the beaches, Assateague Island is a unique destination for boaters. The island's bayside waters are perfect for kayaking or boating, with opportunities to explore quiet coves, salt marshes, and remote beaches.
Wildlife is abundant, with birdwatching being a popular activity for boaters. The calm waters and scenic environment make this a relaxing boating destination, especially for those looking to escape the busy lifestyle of the nearby mainland.
10. Fire Island National Seashore, New York
This barrier island off the coast of Long Island is a favorite summer destination for boaters. With miles of beaches, salt marshes, and quaint villages, Fire Island offers natural beauty and local culture.
Boaters can explore the island's quiet bays, stop at various harbors for a meal, or visit the iconic Fire Island Lighthouse. While Fire Island can get crowded during the summer, it remains a fantastic destination for those looking to combine boating with leisure and social activities.
11. Boston Harbor Islands National Recreation Area, Massachusetts
Just a short boat ride from downtown Boston, the Boston Harbor Islands offer a mix of history, recreation, and natural beauty. Boaters can explore historic forts, hike the trails, or enjoy the beaches on the islands.
It's a popular spot for day trips and offers a different view of the city skyline from the water. Although it's close to an urban area, the harbor's islands provide a peaceful escape from city life, and visitors can dock their boats at several islands.
12. Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina
Boating along Cape Hatteras's barrier islands is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Outer Banks. The area is known for its long stretches of beaches and famous lighthouses, with plenty of spots for fishing, sailing, and kayaking.
While the waters can be challenging due to the area's exposure to the Atlantic, the opportunity to explore remote islands and sandbars makes it a worthwhile destination for experienced boaters.
Boating Destinations In National Parks
These parks and seashores offer boating enthusiasts a range of experiences; each destination offers something unique for boaters. Those looking for rugged wilderness, rich marine life, historical exploration, or a relaxing day on the water will all find the perfect location.
The variety of environments, from tropical reefs to coastal islands, makes this list a comprehensive guide to boating adventures across the U.S.
