CHISAGO CITY KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle the Chisago Chain: Kayaking between the Five Lakes from South Lindstrom
Half-day and full-day kayak rentals from Captain Shawn's Rentals let you explore Chisago Lakes’ five-lake chain, day camps, portages and waterside restaurants; this guide lays out logistics, rules and route options.
Paddle the Chisago Chain: Kayaking between the Five Lakes from South Lindstrom.
Discover the scenic sweep of the Chisago Lakes chain by renting a kayak (or pontoon or fishing boat) and following the newly formed Chisago Lakes Water Trail. Renters can launch from South Lindstrom Lake, Chisago, or North Lindstrom Lake and spend 4 or 8 hours exploring five connected lakes, stopping for picnics at day camps, making short portages on mini‑trails, and visiting waterside shops and restaurants—some operators will even deliver food directly to your boat.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Five‑Lake Circuit and Water Trail Portages
The rental gives access to a connected chain of five lakes with portaging options along the Chisago Lakes Water Trail, letting paddlers stitch together short-run circuits or longer passages between day camps and towns.
Picnic Day Camps and Waterside Stops
Along the route are new day camps for picnics and camping as well as local shops and restaurants on the water; you can pack a lunch or stop ashore, and some businesses will even deliver pizza to your boat.
Kayaks, Pontoons and Fishing Boats
Renters can choose kayaks, pontoons or motorized fishing boats; rentals include fuel and life jackets to get you moving and compliant on the water.
What the day feels like
What the outing feels like
The experience is a measured, accessible lakeside exploration: set out from your launch, glide across open water between wooded shorelines, pull in at one of the new day camps for a break, or run a short portage to continue along the Chisago Lakes Water Trail. Options range from a focused 4‑hour paddle to a full 8‑hour day that mixes swimming, shore stops and waterside food runs.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this rental is best for — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Standard rental durations are 4 or 8 hours; call 651‑769‑3343 for additional times or arrangements.
Pack a lunch and sun protection for shore stops and day camps; life jackets are provided with all boats and children under 12 must wear one.
Rentals operate from launch points on South Lindstrom Lake, Chisago, or North Lindstrom Lake—confirm your exact departure with the operator when booking.
Fuel is included with rentals; shore-side businesses can provide food service and deliveries to boats on the lakes.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long can I rent a kayak?
Standard rental options are 4 or 8 hours; contact 651‑769‑3343 for other times.
What types of boats are available?
You can rent kayaks, pontoons or motorized fishing boats.
Are life jackets provided?
Yes. Life jackets are provided with all boats, and everyone under the age of 12 is required to wear a life vest.
Is fuel included with motorized rentals?
Yes—fuel is included with the rental.
Can I bring pets on the boat?
Pets are not allowed on pontoons; operators request that animals be left at home for pontoon rentals.
Can I get food delivered to my boat?
Yes; local restaurants can deliver food such as pizza directly to your boat while you are on the lakes.