Had a great time on the Russian River, renting kayaks from Burke's Canoe Trips. No crowd mid-week just prior to Labor Day. Burke's people couldn't have been nicer. Clean facilities at the launch point. Easy float all the way. Several beaches for a picnic or to beach kayaks for a swim in deeper holes. We spent about 4.5 hours on... More 

Burkes was my first canoe trip on the Russian River (and first anything on the Russian River) and it was perfect. The staff made it easy to get going right away. They have a perfect location for first time canoeing with fairly still waters (at least in July) with great little spots to stop and picnic on the banks. They... More 

Canoeing as fun, if a bit crowded over July 4th. Good guidance and prep, safety honored first. A fun time was had by my family.

This is a great way to see 10 miles of the beautiful river, get some exercise, some sun, and not kill yourself (I am in my 60's). I can't think of a better way to get close to nature. Best time is weekdays when it is less crowded, get there when they open at 10AM.

Don't go expecting rapids...this is just a nice little 10-mile scenic trip down the Russian. Good for young and inexperienced canoers/kayakers to cut their chops on some bends. You'll see lots of birds, and we even caught a glimpse of some otters!

3 couples canoed the Russian River on a Monday. The location is easy to find and the staff was helpful and pleasant. We were from out of the area and they offered a cooler for our use free so we could pack a lunch. Nice touch! A bag of ice was $2.00. The canoes are in good shape although I... More 

Great way to spend a hot summer day. Good for couples, family's with teens, friends, or solo. Many little beach areas to pull over to have beach fun before you get to the wider part of the river. Its nice they have a pick up point to drive you back to the starting point to retrieve your vehicle. Be sure... More 

Friendly, organized, campground, easy to get going, cash only. Follow the directions on the website - GPS doesn't always get you there. We loved the first 2/3 of the trip with easy paddling, great views, nice beaches to stop at. The last 1/3 was tough up-river with the wind blowing! Would definitely do it again. Watch a "how to paddle"... More 

Burke's is my favorite place to rent kayaks. You start in Forestville and end just past Stumptown Brewery in Guerneville. In total it's 10 miles. It's a great trip. Be prepared to be attacked by massive groups of kids with skirt guns or just a bucket of water they'll kindly dump on your head as you pass. Unfortunately no dogs... More