Your Guide to Kayaking/Canoeing the Lower Colorado River
Chart Your Course
Discover the wild beauty of Texas on the lower Colorado River—where every paddle reveals vibrant, exciting waters and the shores uncover native plants and wildlife, creating the best Texas adventure for a paddler.
Portage LocatIons
White Rock Park
This day-use park was developed by LCRA and operated by City La Grange. From Hwy 71 Business in La Grange, turn south on E. Elbin, then turn left on Mode Lane, and the park entrance is on the right. River access is on your left as your paddle downstream (watch for the concrete steps on your left).
Site Information
Miles to Start
117
Miles to Previous Point
2
Miles To Next Point
34
Miles to Gulf
171
Latitude
29.90
Longitude
-96.86
Plan your River Journey
Pace Of the Paddle
Your average speed of travel depends on the current. Most paddlers cruise at around 2-3 miles per hour, while seasoned explorers can zip along at 4-6 miles per hour.
Time On the River
To estimate your journey time, check the river miles between your start and end points, then divide by two to get a rough idea of your hours on the water.
River and Weather Watch
Conditions can shift fast, especially in spring when floods are common. Stay in the know with LCRA Hydromet, a network of 275+ automated river and weather gauges delivering real-time data on streamflow, river stages, rainfall, temperature and humidity across the lower Colorado River basin.
What to Bring
- Life jacket for everyone (required by law)
- Drinking water
- Sunscreen
- First aid kit
- Insect repellant
- Extra paddle
- Watercraft repair kit
- River maps
- Cell phone
- GPS unit
- Signaling device (like a whistle)
- Dry bag for essentials
Know the Essentials, Too
Boater Safety
Wearing a life jacket is the best way to stay safe on the water! Be prepared by bringing water, snacks, important info and the right gear. If you’re new to paddling, check out introductory classes from the American Canoe Association to get started with confidence.
Take a moment to scout your take-out spot before you begin. Walk down, note the landmarks and be ready as you approach from upstream. Don’t forget to let someone know your plans and when you’ll be back.
Private Property and Portages
Help keep the river experience enjoyable for all by respecting private property—avoid trespassing, keep noise low and leave no trace. The river is navigable, meaning you’re free to use the streambed and riverbanks for portaging around hazards. Just be mindful that any other use of private land along the banks requires the owner’s permission. Texas law considers entering private land without permission as trespassing, so keep an eye out for signs like fences, posted notices or purple paint along the riverbanks.
Portage Contacts
- LCRA Parks: 512-473-3366
- LCRA: 512-369-4778
- TxDOT: 512-463-8588
- Travis County Parks: 512-854-7275
- City of Bastrop: 512-321-3957
- Bastrop County: 512-332-7201
- City of Smithville: 512-332-7201
- City of La Grange: 979-968-5805
- Colorado County: 979-732-2604
- Matagorda County: 361-558-6866
- Bay City: 979-245-0340
- Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: 512-389-4800