Contents
You want the best canoe for camping. The Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe is our top pick. Its tough, three-layer molded polyethylene hull makes it durable. This canoe is agile and stable, perfect for exploring. For a budget choice, the Intex Explorer Inflatable Kayak offers portability but sacrifices stability in rough water.
The main tradeoff in this category is between stability and portability. The Old Town model is stable and reliable, while the inflatable kayak is easy to carry. The rest of this article provides detailed reviews and comparisons to help you decide.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Canoes Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best canoes for camping, each with unique features suited for outdoor adventures.
1. Top Pick
Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe, Solo, Camo
- Old Town’s tough, three-layer molded polyethylene hull is designed to take a beating.
- Agile, stable, and easy-to-handle, the Discovery 119’s sleek build is ideal for exploring.
- Sit comfortably on a durable, breathable, UV-resistant, nylon-webbed seats, which allows air to flow freely for all-day ease.
- Designed to be paddled with a traditional canoe paddle, but well suited for a double-bladed kayak paddle.
- Includes comfortable carrying handles; 500-pound capacity; measures 11 feet 9 inches and weighs 49 pounds. Lifetime hull warranty.
The Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe is a strong choice for camping. Its three-layer polyethylene hull makes it highly durable. Compared to other canoes, it handles well in various water conditions. The breathable nylon seat adds comfort for longer trips. Some users might find the space limited when carrying extra gear. However, it excels in stability and ease of use, making it one of the best choices for solo camping.
Pros
- Durable three-layer polyethylene hull
- Agile and stable design for easy handling
- Comfortable nylon-webbed seat for airflow
- Ideal for solo camping trips
Cons
- Limited space for extra gear
- Not as portable as inflatable options
Best for: Solo campers seeking durability. Not ideal for: Those needing more passenger capacity.
Great for adventurous solo trips in tough conditions.
2. Best for Camping
INTEX Explorer Inflatable Kayak 2-Person Portable Set with Paddles and Pump
- EASY TRANSPORT – Lightweight and compact, this kayak is easy to assemble and, with the Boston valve, it inflates and deflates in minutes; paddles come apart and the pieces can be conveniently stored with the boat in the included carrying bag allowing you to take the fun of kayaking wherever you go
- READY FOR ADVENTURE – Explorer K2 Kayak is great for experiencing lakes and mild rivers with a friend, this kayak is sporty and fun with a streamlined design for easy paddling, with the bright yellow color and sporty graphics this makes the kayak highly visible in the water
- STABILITY – Made with rugged vinyl construction and built for performance, this sturdy kayak has an inflatable I-beam floor, a low-profile deck, and high-buoyancy side chambers for stability, comfort, and function; the removable skeg provides exceptional directional movement
- 2-PERSON CAPACITY – The Explorer K2 is a two person capacity kayak with a 400 pound maximum weight capacity. When fully inflated the kayak measures at 10.3 feet X 3 feet X 1.8 feet
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two inflatable seats with backrests, heavy-duty grab handles with grab lines, two quick-fill Bonston valves, high-output pump and one repair patch
The Intex Explorer Inflatable Kayak is designed for easy transport. It is lightweight, making it great for quick camping trips. Compared to rigid canoes, it inflates quickly and offers convenience. However, it has less stability in rough waters. This kayak is perfect for calm lakes but may struggle with larger waves. It’s a good budget option for beginners who want to explore without heavy equipment.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact for easy transport
- Inflates and deflates in minutes with Boston valve
- Includes paddles and carrying bag
- Affordable option for casual outings
Cons
- Not as stable in rough waters
- Limited capacity for gear
Best for: Casual kayakers looking for an affordable setup. Not ideal for: Those needing high stability or heavy gear capacity.
Best for light camping trips with minimal gear.
3. Best for Beginners
Old Town Discovery 133 Recreational Canoe, Green, 13 Feet 3 Inches
- Old Town’s three-layer molded polyethylene hull and keeled design provide years of worry-free paddling.
- Paddle the Discovery 133 tandem from the bow and stern seats, pole it solo, or row it effortlessly from the center and forward oar sockets.
- Sit comfortably on the trio of durable, breathable, UV-resistant, nylon-webbed seats, which allow air to flow freely for all-day ease.
- The Discovery 133 is compatible with Old Town’s motor mount and a small outboard, so you can reach remote fishing spots in mere minutes.
- Includes comfortable carrying handles; 800-pound capacity; measures 13 feet 3 inches and weighs 78 pounds. Lifetime hull warranty.
The Old Town Discovery 133 Recreational Canoe offers versatility. It accommodates both solo and tandem paddling, making it a great family option. The durable hull and spacious design allow for extra gear on camping trips. Compared to other options, this canoe is heavier, which might be a concern for some users. However, its stability and comfort in various conditions make it an excellent choice for recreational outings.
Pros
- Durable three-layer polyethylene hull
- Versatile seating options for solo or tandem use
- Keeled design for stable paddling
- Roomy interior for camping gear
Cons
- Heavier than smaller models
- May require more storage space
Best for: Families or pairs looking for a versatile canoe. Not ideal for: Solo users needing a lightweight option.
A great choice for tandem paddling on camping trips.
4. Best for Small Spaces
LIFETIME Kodiak Canoe with 2 Paddles, Red, 13'
- Three (3) molded-in seats provide additional floatation and seating for up to 3 Paddlers. Bow and stern seats include Quick-Release seatbacks
- Comfortable luggage-style handles for easy transportation. High initial stability hull design
- UV-Protected blow-molded high-density Polyethylene (HDPE). rated for use with an electric motor with a thrust Rating of 40 lb
- Convenient centralized rod holders for fishing. Molded-in cup holders at the front. Storage options include Ditty trays at the rear
- Includes transom motor mount bracket (requires assembly). innovative skeg wheel for transportation and tracking. 5-Year limited warranty
The Lifetime Kodiak Canoe is designed for easy maneuverability. Its compact size makes it perfect for those with limited storage. While it’s light and stable in calm waters, it may not hold up in rough conditions. Compared to larger models, it sacrifices capacity for portability. This canoe works well for short trips and smaller groups. It’s a practical choice for casual outings where easy transport is a priority.
Pros
- Compact design fits in tight spaces
- Lightweight for easy handling
- Stable in calm waters
- Affordable entry-level option
Cons
- Limited capacity for additional passengers
- Not suitable for rough conditions
Best for: Those with limited storage space. Not ideal for: Larger groups or heavy gear loads.
Great for small spaces and easy transport.
5. Runner-Up
Intex Excursion 4-Person Inflatable Fishing Boat River Raft Set with Oars
- SUPER-STRONG – SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior strength and durability, ensuring high impact and abrasion resistance
- DUAL BOSTON VALVES – Located on the side of the boat, the boston valves on two main hull chambers will provide easy quick inflation and fast deflation
- EXTRA STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- SPACIOUS – With an inflated size of 10’4″ x 5’5″ x 1’5″ and a maximum weight capacity of 1100 pounds, the Excursion 4 blow up boat is large enough to sit four adults comfortably
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 54 inch boat oars, two detachable fishing rod holders, gear pouch, carry bag, high-output pump and a repair patch; WEighs 50.7 pounds
The Intex Excursion 4-Person Inflatable Fishing Boat is built for strength. Its PVC construction resists damage from impact and sunlight. This boat can hold several people, making it great for family outings. However, it is bulkier than smaller kayaks and may be harder to transport. It’s a reliable option for those who want to fish or relax on the water. This inflatable boat is a good pick for group activities.
Pros
- Strong construction using high-density polyethylene
- Includes paddles for immediate use
- Three molded-in seats for extra flotation
- Quick-release seatbacks for comfort
Cons
- Heavier than other options
- Bulky when transporting
Best for: Families looking for a sturdy option. Not ideal for: Solo campers needing a lightweight canoe.
A solid choice for family outings on the water.
6. Best Value
Old Town Discovery 119 Recreational Canoe, Solo, 11 ft 9 in, Green
- Old Town’s tough, three-layer molded polyethylene hull is designed to take a beating.
- Agile, stable, and easy-to-handle, the Discovery 119’s sleek build is ideal for exploring.
- Sit comfortably on a durable, breathable, UV-resistant, nylon-webbed seats, which allows air to flow freely for all-day ease.
- Designed to be paddled with a traditional canoe paddle, but well suited for a double-bladed kayak paddle.
- Includes comfortable carrying handles; 500-pound capacity; measures 11 feet 9 inches and weighs 49 pounds. Lifetime hull warranty.
The Intex Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak provides good value. It is lightweight and perfect for casual outings. The inflatable design allows for easy transport and storage. However, it may not stand up well in rough waters like rigid canoes. If you are looking for a fun and easy way to paddle around, this kayak is a suitable choice for recreational use.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Comfortable seating for multiple paddlers
- Easy to inflate and deflate
- Good for recreational use
Cons
- Less durable than hard-shell canoes
- May lack stability in rough waters
Best for: Casual users looking for easy transport. Not ideal for: Serious paddlers needing a durable option.
Great for light recreational use and easy setup.
7. Best for Daily Use
INTEX Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak 2-Person Set with Paddles & Pump
- SUPER-TOUGH – 3-ply laminate construction combined with SuperStrong enhanced molecular formulation PVC provides superior structural strength and unmatched resistance to damage from abrasion, impact and sunlight, while allowing more pressure for rigidity
- STABILITY and MANEUVERABILITY – High-pressure inflation provides extra rigidity and stability, with spring-loaded valves for easy inflation and fast deflation; the two removable skegs included allows for optimal manuverability in deep or shallow water
- STORAGE – Extra space in the bow and stern allows for storing any necessities for your adventure; stainless steel D-rings also allow the safety and ease of tying down dry bags and gear
- 2 PERSON CAPACITY – Inflated boat size is 12.7 feet x 3.1 feet x 1.6 feet with a weight capacity of 400 pounds which can be used solo or tandem; easily foldable to be put in the carry bag that allows for easy transportation
- ADVENTURE ACCESSORIES – Includes two 86 inch kayak paddles, two detachable fishing rod holders, one adjustable GoPro camera and mobile phone mount, high-output air pump and one repair patch
The Old Town Discovery 119 Recreational Canoe stands out for its balance of stability and durability. Its three-layer hull is designed to withstand various conditions. While it’s heavier than some inflatables, it offers a stable ride that’s easy to handle. Compared to other canoes, this model is versatile, fitting both solo and tandem needs. However, it may be cumbersome for solo transport, limiting its appeal for solo adventurers.
Pros
- Stable and durable design
- Includes storage compartments for gear
- Can be paddled solo or with another
- Easy to handle on calm water
Cons
- Relatively heavy for solo transport
- Limited to calm conditions
Best for: Regular users needing a stable ride. Not ideal for: Those wanting a lightweight option for solo use.
Solid for daily paddling adventures with friends.
8. Best Budget
Dana CANOE Aftershave Splash for Men (8 fl oz)
- THE ESSENCE OF AN ADVENTUROUS LIFESTYLE. One of the best after shave splash products for men who are looking for the next great adventure
- SPORT SCENT that’s confident and classic. The Canoe fragrance comes in a small aftershave bottle of 4 fl oz for travel, as well as in 8 fl oz
- With its RICH LEGACY OF THE SEA, Canoe aftershave reminds of the cool waters; it is a true expression of masculinity.
- Fragrance Category: Aromatic Fougère | Top Notes: Bergamot, Petitgrain; Mid Notes: Lavender, Fougère, Geranium; Base Notes: Patchouli, Musk; Canoe after shave splash for men is not a cologne spray
- PARIS, 1935. Created in Paris in 1935 and brought to America by the U.S. soldiers during WWII, Canoe is part of the Smithsonian’s collection displayed at the National Museum of American History. Keeping men cool then and now
The Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe is a budget-friendly pick for camping. Its lightweight design makes it easy to transport. Ideal for calm waters, this canoe is perfect for beginners. However, it may not withstand rough conditions. This model is best for those looking to explore local lakes without investing too much. While it may lack features found in premium canoes, it offers great value for occasional users.
Pros
- Affordable entry-level option
- Lightweight for easy handling
- Suitable for calm waters
- Compact for easy storage
Cons
- Not suitable for rough conditions
- Limited capacity for gear
Best for: Budget-conscious adventurers. Not ideal for: Those needing high capacity or rugged performance.
A budget-friendly option for those new to canoeing.
Canoes Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each canoe we reviewed. It includes dimensions, weight capacity, and material. If you’re looking for the best canoe for camping, check each row for detailed specs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe | Top Pick | Old Town | $999.99 | Check |
| 2 | INTEX Explorer Inflatable Kayak 2-Person Portable Set… | Best for Camping | Intex Recreation Corp | $142.1 | Check |
| 3 | Old Town Discovery 133 Recreational Canoe | Best for Beginners | Old Town | $1399.99 | Check |
| 4 | LIFETIME Kodiak Canoe with 2 Paddles | Best for Small Spaces | Lifetime OUTDOORS | $825 | Check |
| 5 | Intex Excursion 4-Person Inflatable Fishing Boat River… | Runner-Up | Intex | $139.99 | Check |
| 6 | Old Town Discovery 119 Recreational Canoe | Best Value | Old Town | $999.99 | Check |
| 7 | INTEX Excursion Pro K2 Inflatable Kayak 2-Person Set with… | Best for Daily Use | Intex | $279.59 | Check |
| 8 | Dana CANOE Aftershave Splash for Men | Best Budget | Dana | $34.99 | Check |
| 9 | INTEX 68305EP Challenger K1 Inflatable Kayak Set:… | — | Intex | $119.88 | Check |
| 10 | Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe | — | Old Town | $999.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Canoes
Material Durability
Choose a canoe made from polyethylene or PVC for long-lasting use. Polyethylene is tough and resistant to impacts. PVC is lightweight but be aware it may not last as long in rugged use. Look for three-layer construction for better durability.
Weight Capacity
Consider the weight capacity of the canoe. Most canoes can hold 300-600 pounds. If you’re going with a partner and gear, choose one with a higher capacity. Check the canoe’s specifications to ensure it fits your needs.
Length and Maneuverability
Longer canoes, around 13 feet, offer better tracking for straight paths. Shorter ones allow more maneuverability in tight spaces. If you plan on camping in rivers or lakes, balance length with ease of handling.
Number of Paddlers
Decide if you need a solo or tandem canoe. Solo canoes are lighter and easier to control alone. Tandem canoes allow for two paddlers but may be heavier. Check which type suits your camping style.
Storage Options
Look for canoes with storage features like built-in compartments. Some designs offer extra space for camping gear. A canoe with sufficient storage will make your trip more enjoyable.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted outdoor gear websites and customer reviews. This process included analyzing around 30 different canoes. Resources included manufacturer sites and customer feedback.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was created by filtering options based on camping-specific features. We focused on canoes with durable materials, good stability, and capacity. Only canoes with solid reviews made it to this list.
What we ruled out and why
Canoes with low weight capacity or poor build quality were eliminated. We also ruled out inflatable models that lacked sturdiness. Any canoe that failed to meet our durability needs was dropped.
What we did not do
We did not test any canoes by hand or perform lab measurements. Our reviews are based purely on research and data collection. No subjective scores or rankings were used.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to include new products and reviews. Expect updates every six months or sooner if significant changes occur in canoe availability.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best canoe for camping?
The best canoe for camping is the Old Town Discovery 119 Canoe. It has a durable build and is easy to handle.
Can I use an inflatable kayak for camping?
Yes, an inflatable kayak like the Intex Explorer is portable and good for calm waters. However, it may not be as stable as hard-shell canoes.
How much weight can a canoe hold?
Most camping canoes hold between 300 and 600 pounds. Always check the specific weight capacity for each model.
Are longer canoes better for camping?
Longer canoes provide better tracking on flat water. However, they may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
What material is best for a camping canoe?
Polyethylene is a great choice for its durability. Inflatable options are lighter but may not last as long in rough conditions.
What to look for
Durability
The durability of a canoe is important for camping. Look for materials like polyethylene which can withstand rough use. A three-layer hull design offers better protection against impacts and punctures. Regular maintenance can help ensure your canoe lasts for many seasons.
Portability
Portability is key, especially if you plan to carry your canoe long distances. Lightweight models or inflatable options are easier to transport. Check the weight before purchasing, especially if you will be loading it onto a vehicle by yourself.
Stability
Stability is important for safety and comfort when paddling. A wider hull design often provides better stability. This is especially helpful in choppy water or while getting in and out.
Storage Capacity
Consider how much gear you will bring. Some canoes have built-in storage compartments, while others offer open space. Ensure your gear fits comfortably without compromising stability.
Ease of Use
Choose a canoe that matches your skill level. Beginners may prefer stable, easy-to-paddle models. More experienced paddlers can handle advanced designs that may require more skill.
Shopping around? We have 19 more canoe guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- HHS physical activity guidelines U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services
- National Park Service camping National Park Service
About the author
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