Canoe & Kayak Rental

Susquehanna River Experience Bookmark this location of the page.

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Enjoy the Susquehanna River as only a paddler can. Rent a canoe or kayak and take your family or friends on a trip down Central Pennsylvania's scenic Susquehanna River. Picnic or camp on one of numerous islands, fish our world class smallmouth bass fishery, swim or wade in a secluded cove, and admire the abundant waterfowl and other river critters. Singles, couples, families, groups, and corporate functions are welcome.

River trips, Rentals & Shuttles overview

• Trips are generally on the Susquehanna River but may also be on the Conodoguinet Creek or another Tributary, depending on water levels & conditions.

• We rent canoes, 1 and 2-person recreational kayak, and 1-person touring kayaks. Boat rentals include paddles and lifevests (PFD's). The maximum canoe capacity is 2 adults plus 1 or 2 children under 90 pounds each. Shuttles are required for renting boats. We do not charge hourly for rentals. All trips are due back by 5:30 p.m. on the scheduled return date. Please check our pricing for rentals & shuttles.

• Kayak fisherman have a great selection of rental options at BMO. We have fishing kayaks from Bonafide, Native Watercraft, Nucanoe, Perception & Wilderness Systems. Rod Holders are also available.

• We also provide shuttles for privately owned canoes, kayaks, and SUPs. For more information check out our shuttle rates.

• River trip rentals & shuttles start at 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Some exceptions apply, such as overnight trips. We do ask that you make reservations and ask for availability by calling us at (717) 957-2413 .

• River and Tributary trip availability may be affected by the water levels & conditions on the river.

Park at Blue Mountain Outfitters (BMO) in Marysville. Our ground transportation (shuttle) will transport you and the boats to the starting point of your chosen river trip. One popular day trip is from Duncannon to BMO; this trip is 8-miles long and takes an average of 3 to 5 hours. Another popular trip starts (approximately 1 hour shorter) at BMO and ends 6 miles downstream at West Fairview -- from there we provide a shuttle back to our shop. Other trips start and end at locations remote to BMO.

When water levels permit, we use a number of other streams in the area for river trips. Sherman Creek, the Juniata River, and Conodoguinet Creek are frequently used alternatives. We'll work with you to plan your trip and then provide the shuttle and boating equipment.

The use of our shuttle service is required with all boat rentals -- no self carry. To determine the total fee, add the boat rental and shuttle fees. Example: 2 canoes, 4 people, Duncannon to Marysville; $90 + $40 = $130 total or $32.50 a person (+6% PA sales tax). We also shuttle privately owned boats.

Give us a call at (717) 957-2413 to check trip availability and to make a reservation.

Rental Rates Bookmark this location of the page.

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Shuttle Rates Bookmark this location of the page.

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To and From the River

For pricing information on longer and alternative stream shuttles,
click here for our Shuttle Rate Brochure

Group Discount

A 10% rental discount applies to group trips that: (1) have 10 or more paying boat seats, (2) use a single lease agreement, and (3) pay with a single payment. This discount does not apply to shuttle rates.

Overnight Camping Trips

Two, three, or more days on the river? Trips start an appropriate distance upstream on the Susquehanna, usually 15 to 43 miles, and end here at BMO. Multi-day paddlers may choose from riverfront commercial campgrounds or primitive island campsites along the Susquehanna River Island Trail. Reservations are recommended for the commercial campgrounds.

Private Boat Shuttle

We provide shuttle service for privately owned boats at the rates listed plus a $5 per person surcharge.

Reservations Bookmark this location of the page.

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We strongly recommend that you make a reservation for your trip. Without a reservation we make no promises that either equipment or personnel will be available to facilitate your trip.

Reservations are allocated on a first come - first serve basis.

Cancellation policy: We realize you’re hoping for ideal weather for your trip and may not want to go if otherwise. That said, we need to schedule our workforce based on reservations, and it is extremely difficult to make last minute changes. PLEASE check the extended (at least 4-day) forecast and let us know as soon as possible if you wish to cancel your outing.

Trips run rain or shine except when conditions (severe weather, water stage, and/or water temperature) are determined unsuitable by BMO Management.Our experience is that most weekend forecasts call for “chance of rain” or”chance of thunderstorms” and the majority of the time it doesn’t materialize. We suggest considering your trip ”soft adventure” and plan on a chance of getting wet. (You’re going to get wet paddling anyway, right?).

Body Size Questions: When making reservations, the Blue Mountain representative may ask for the height and weight of each rental client. Why does Blue Mountain Outfitters collect this information? The short answer: safety.

Paddle craft are built to accommodate different sized people. If the person is too small for the boat, they will have unnecessary difficulty maneuvering and propelling the boat. If the person is too large for the boat, they can be too cramped in the boat to be comfortable or effective, or worst case -- too heavy for the boat, making the boat unstable, unsafe and fatiguing.

Blue Mountain Outfitters uses this height and weight information to assign the proper sized boat to each rental client. This information is not used for any other purpose by Blue Mountain Outfitters and it is not released or transferred to any third party

One size does NOT fit all.

Risk Management Bookmark this location of the page.

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BMO makes every effort to provide the best quality equipment, information, and instruction, but we cannot assume liability for personal injuries, damaged equipment, or lost equipment.

Before your outing, we require you to sign a lease agreement and a liability release form. A release form that has been signed in advance by a parent or guardian is required for each minor traveling with others.

To download our liability release forms so that you can read, print and complete them in advance. Click here to download the Liability Release Form.

Water related recreational activities have inherent risks, dangers, and hazards; expose participants to strenuous conditions; and place participants in isolated settings. Assess your physical capabilities accordingly and if you are unsure, check with your doctor.

You will watch a river orientation video before your trip -- pay attention and ask questions if any point is unclear. You must understand and exercise safety measures to protect yourself while in the river environment. This is not a precisely monitored and controlled amusement park ride!

The ability to swim is an important skill, but don't overestimate your swimming ability. We urge you to wear your PFD at all times, when on or in the water. Be aware that unexpected swims happen and that there are sudden drop-offs on the river bottom.

BMO reserves the right to refuse outing participation when patrons are not dressed properly for prevailing conditions.

BMO river float trips are suitable for all skill levels. The minimum participant age is 6 years. Our standards for determining suitable conditions are elevated for trips including children.

Any customer who appears intoxicated or under the influence of illegal or controlled substances will not be allowed on board our watercraft. BMO strongly discourages the use of alcohol while on the water.

Trip Itinerary Bookmark this location of the page.

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All trips meet at Blue Mountain Outfitters in Marysville. Plan to arrive, river-ready (dressed for the river with all supplies including food and drinks in hand), at your scheduled time. Shuttles depart after paperwork processing, orientation talk or video, access scouting, and gear loading. To be fair to others, late arrivals may be shifted to the next available shuttle. All trips are due back by 5:30 p.m. on the scheduled return date.

The late return fee is $1 per minute per boat.

River Notes Bookmark this location of the page.

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If you do bring children with you, we suggest keeping the trip length short, and plan for lots of layover time. A familiar toy from home (that floats!) helps a lot. We've also found that an aquarium dip net, clear plastic jar with holes punched in the lid, and small nylon mesh bag for collecting "treasures" tend to keep kids interested for hours. Don't forget the snacks!

Poison Ivy is VERY prevalent along the river corridor. Know how to identify it, and if you're susceptible (or aren't sure), consider using a skin protectant lotion. If you do make contact, rinse well with plain water directly after exposure or, better yet, use an outdoor skin cleanser. Protectants and cleansers are available in our store.

Avoid using perfumes, colognes, and other "sweet" scents...mosquitoes and biting flies love them as much as you do!

Sunburn is a significant problem on the river. Liberally apply and reapply waterproof sunblock -- don't forget the tops of your feet when wearing sandals. Sunglasses, a hat with brim, and abundant drinking water are also important. Be sure to secure any eyewear with a strap.

Anchors, fragile foam coolers and glass containers of any kind are not permitted! All water sensitive possessions and anything that you want to keep dry (such as lunch) must be protected in waterproof containers -- sandwich and garbage bags do not provide reliable protection. We have drybags available to rent.

Due to increasing usage of the river islands, all solid human waste and toilet paper must be carried out and disposed of properly. Portable camp toilets and waste kits are available for sale or rent at BMO. It is unlawful to dispose of human waste or soiled containers in normal trash facilities.

PLEASE leave the river as clean as you found it, preferably cleaner. Secure litter in a bag at all times and tie the bag to your boat.

Be courteous to others on the river.

Plan on getting wet -- especially your feet!

Trip Attire & Supplies Bookmark this location of the page.

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Dressing for the River

Cotton is great in the summer, because it helps keep you cool and provides some sun protection, but it does not dry quickly and is not suitable for cool, wet conditions. Inclement summer weather calls for light layers of polypropylene or other wicking synthetic tops and bottoms. A water/wind proof shell should also be readily available. Spring and fall demand heavier pile or fleece in combination with paddling jackets and pants. Don't forget the warm hat. When water and air temperatures together total less then 100°, wetsuits or specialized protective clothing are required. A hat for sun protection of eyes and skin is also handy.

Preferred footwear includes old sneakers, sandals, or watershoes. Your footwear should be securely fastened to your feet so that shoreline mud or an inadvertent swim do not take them. No flip-flops, loafers, or bare feet -- broken glass and other sharp objects are a constant threat. Spring and fall paddlers should consider wool or fleece socks, or neoprene booties. Never wear oversized boots in the boats. Bring dry clothes, foot ware, and jackets for overnight trips and for the ride home.

Suggested Trip Supplies

• Daytrip

  • Suggested Supplies

    • Drinking water
    • Ice
    • Sturdy cooler w/ secure lid
    • Swimsuit & towel
    • Change of clothing
    • Sunglasses
    • Foul weather gear
    • First aid kit
    • Eyewear retainer (strap)
    • Extra glasses / contacts
    • Hat with brim for sun protection
    • Waterproof sunblock
    • Insect repellent
    • Poison Ivy protectant
    • Trash bag

  • Optional Supplies

    • Beverages
    • Dry bags
    • Fishing tackle, bait and license
    • Snacks / lunch
    • Camera & film (waterproofed)
    • Binoculars (waterproofed)
    • Cellphone (in waterproof case)
    • Dry change of clothing

• Overnight Trip additional to day supplies

  • Suggested Supplies

    • Dry shoes
    • Dry change of clothing
    • Tents & ground cloths
    • Sleeping bags & pads
    • Additional drybags
    • Flashlight / headlamp
    • Spare batteries & bulbs
    • Food
    • Eating utensils
    • Cook kit
    • Backpacking stove & fuel
    • Cooking tarp
    • Can opener
    • Water (minimum 1 gal. per person per day)
    • Dish washing supplies (biodegradable soap)
    • Personal toiletries (biodegradable soap)
    • Toilet paper & camp toilet
    • Waterproof matches & fire starters
    • Rope (for clothesline, tarps, ...)

  • Optional Supplies

    • Pillows
    • Camp chairs
    • Lantern & fuel
    • Food prep table

Notes: Most of these items are available for purchase in our retail store.

Brochures & Forms Bookmark this location of the page.

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Maps & Info Bookmark this location of the page.

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• Duncannon to Marysville

  • River Map - Duncannon to Marysville
    • This is our map of the Susquehanna River from Duncannon to Marysville.
    • 356kb .pdf file, one page formatted for 8.5 x 14" landscape.
  • River Trip Information - Duncannon to Marysville
    • This is the text from the back of our map of the Susquehanna River from Duncannon to Marysville. It includes a verbal description of the Duncannon to Marysville trip, a brief list of trip necessities, and paddling tips.
    • 356kb .pdf file, one page formatted for 8.5 x 14" landscape.

• Marysville to West Fairview

  • River Map - Marysville to West Fairview
    • This is our map of the Susquehanna River from Marysville to West Fairview.
    • Sorry, this one's a monster. 2.4Mb .pdf file, one page formatted for 8.5 x 14" portrait.
  • River Trip Information - Marysville to West Fairview
    • This is the text from the back of our map of the Susquehanna River from Marysville to West Fairview. It includes a verbal description of the Marysville to West Fairview trip, a brief list of trip necessities, and paddling tips.
    • 356kb .pdf file, one page formatted for 8.5 x 14" landscape.