Is there any better way to spend a summer afternoon than relaxing in the water in a kayak or canoe? You can paddle along with gusto, or you can sit still and admire the tree-covered shoreline. There are many great places to canoe or kayak near Bowling Green, each with its own character. Here are some of the best lakes, creeks, and parks our real estate agents recommend.

Green River Canoeing and Kayaking

Address: 23839 Louisville Road, Park City, KY 42160

If you're already looking at Park City homes for sale, why not stop by Green River Canoeing and Kayaking while you're in the area? They rent canoes and kayaks, so you don't have to bring your own. You can either join a guided tour or venture off on your own, paddling along the Green River through Mammoth Cave National Park.

Green River Canoeing and Kayaking offers something for all experience levels. Their 8-mile trip is perfect for beginners, while the 12-mile trip is suitable for intermediate paddlers. You'll see plenty of wildlife along the way, and there are several rocky bluffs that are gorgeous to admire.

Red River Gorge Adventure

Address: 2138 Natural Bridge Road, Slade, KY 40376

The Red River Gorge is one of the most stunning natural landmarks in the region. Red River Gorge Adventure rents kayaks and stand-up paddle boards, allowing you to enjoy its beauty from atop the water itself. They have both single-seat and tandem kayaks. In fact, some of their tandems are large enough to fit two adults and a child.

Red River Gorge Adventures provides paddles, life jackets, and any other accessories you might need. Walk-ups are welcome, but it's best to call ahead and reserve a spot on weekends, as they fill up quickly.

Weldon Peete Park

Address: 352 Three Springs Road, Bowling Green, KY 42104

If you have your own kayak or canoe, visit Weldon Peete Park for some time on the water. There's a boat ramp leading into the Barren River for easy access. You can paddle for a mile or ten, whatever you're in the mood for. Dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed.

Weldon Peete Park also has excellent amenities, including:

• Mountain Biking Trails
• Walking and Running Trails
• Picnic Shelters

You could enjoy a picnic lunch before heading out on the water, then finish the day by looking at a few Bowling Green homes for sale.

Romanza Johnson Park

Address: 1425 Mt. Lebanon Church Road, Alvaton, KY 42122

Located on Trammell Fork Creek, Romanza Johnson Park is another great place to visit if you have your own kayak or canoe. You can launch your craft into Trammell Fork Creek, then follow it to Drakes Creek, a wider waterway that attracts a lot of paddlers. From there, you can go all the way to Phil Moore Park, a trip that takes several hours.

Romanza Johnson Park has less than 3 acres, but it has everything you need for a relaxing afternoon. There are several picnic shelters, nature trails, and a fishing dock. There's even an environmental education station with displays for all ages. Don't forget to look at some Alvaton homes for sale nearby, too!

The Bowling Green area has so much natural beauty, and enjoying it from the water gives you a whole new perspective. We hope you have time to rent a kayak or canoe, or take your own craft on a little adventure this summer. Check out the spots above, and don't hesitate to contact us for real estate services.