Kayak Rentals Available at Hiawatha Lake in Upper Onondaga Park

Published on June 03, 2022

Pre-registration required on Syracuse.recdesk.com

Syracuse, N.Y. – The City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs will offer single and two-person kayak rentals on Hiawatha Lake in Upper Onondaga Park, located on 176 Onondaga Park Drive, Syracuse, NY 13207, beginning Saturday, June 4. Rentals will be available on Saturdays and Sundays through July 31.

Advance online registration on Syracuse.recdesk.com under programs on the top navigation bar. Registration will open will open on the Mondays prior to the weekend at 8 a.m. Walk-up rentals will not be permitted.

Rental hours are Saturday and Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in 45 minute sessions.
Rental sessions are:

  • 11:00–11:45 a.m.
  • 12:00–12:45 p.m.
  • 1:00–1:45 p.m.
  • 2:00–2:45 p.m.
  • 3:00–3:45 p.m.

Rental rates are $5 per kayak (rate does not include sales tax or 2.75% non-refundable, credit card transaction fee). All rentals include a life jacket, whistle, the kayak selected at registration, and a paddle. Closed toe water shoes are recommended.

The kayak launch will be on the northwest side of the lake, opposite of the bathhouse and closest to Clairmonte Avenue. Parking is available by the tennis courts or along the park road, where indicated.

Rules to know before making a reservation:

  • The person renting the kayak must be of 18 years of age or older and must be with the group using the kayak at all times, and assume all responsibility for everyone in their party.
  • Individuals must be at least 14 years old to operate a single kayak and must be accompanied on the water by a parent or guardian 18 years of age or older, at all times.
  • Life jackets must be worn and fastened while in the kayak.
  • Identification will be required and held onsite during rental session.
  • Refunds will only be issued if the department cancels. You will be notified by phone and offered the option of a refund, minus the 2.75% credit card transaction fee, or a one-time only reschedule-date. Kayaking sessions will be cancelled if blue-algae blooms are present.

For more information about kayak rentals, call the City of Syracuse Department of Parks, Recreation & Youth Programs at (315) 473-4330 or email mnesci@syrgov.net