Willapa Paddle Adventures offers self-guided kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals on the Willapa River in historic downtown Raymond, Washington. Founded in July 2015 by Baylee Countryman at just seventeen years old, the business grew out of a love of paddling and a desire to share the beauty of the Willapa River with the local community and visitors, and has grown into a well-loved regional paddling destination.
The fleet includes 20 kayaks and 2 stand-up paddleboards, made up of 16 single kayaks and 4 tandem (two-person) kayaks with jump seats. A specialized, user-friendly kayak dock makes getting in and out of the boats easy for paddlers of any experience level, though guests do need to carry their kayak a short distance across the street from the 3rd Street location down to the launch spot after check-in.
The self-guided river route follows a waterway once central to the Willapa and Chinook tribes, passing the historic Old Turning Swing Bridge and offering a strong chance of spotting herons, otters, seals, sea lions, and bald eagles along the way. Guests interested in visiting Long Island, part of the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge, can arrange a special trip with at least two weeks’ notice, since access requires timing around a minimum 6-foot tide due to surrounding mudflats. Kayak delivery to launch points beyond the Raymond dock is also available with two weeks’ advance notice, since insurance policy prevents customers from transporting the boats themselves.
Every rental includes a PFD, whistle, paddle, and the boat itself, and dogs are welcome to join, though guests need to bring their own pet PFD if needed. The business operates by appointment six days a week (Monday through Saturday) year-round, with availability best checked by texting or calling ahead.
For paddlers looking for a scenic, self-guided kayak or SUP trip on the Willapa River, complete with local history and wildlife along the way, Willapa Paddle Adventures offers a well-established, family-run rental operation out of Raymond, Washington.
