Riva Row Boat House

Fun, relaxing, and family-friendly! We had a great time on the swan pedal boats — such a fun and inexpensive activity for families or even a sweet date. The views were peaceful, and we even spotted a few turtles, which was a fun surprise! The staff was friendly, and the whole experience was smooth and enjoyable. Highly recommend if you’re looking for something laid-back and memorable.

I’ve been to Riva Row 2 times now and every time it’s been an amazing experience. My bf and I got the 1 hour rental and it was just enough time to reach the fountain and come back, so if you would like to take it a bit more relaxed or explore further I would definitely recommend the 2 hr rentals. Worth it!!

I drove almost an hour to find out a reservation was required (oops!). It was really busy so my dog and I got incredibly lucky to snag the last available tandem kayak that day. Staff were quick and friendly. Definitely planning on coming back in the future!

The sawn boat was slow. Every time we paddle, water rushed into our seat through the little holes. By the time we done, our clothes were all soaking wet. It was so sunny and tiring, I wished the swan boat would have some shade. I dont want to come back if the problems are not fixed.

Many watercraft choices to select from and great amenities. Perfect for all families. Unfortunately, staff wasn't helpful or friendly. There is no guide or assistance. At least a simple explanation would be great instead of keys being handed. The life jackets are spotted and smelly. Parking was fine, and seeing wildlife is always enjoyable. Not crowded for being a holiday weekend.

Great experience! Go early since it’s first come, first served, super convenient. Be sure to bring water, sunglasses, and a hat, especially on sunny days. The place is always very clean and professional, and the staff is helpful with any questions. Just a heads up: they don’t provide kayaking instruction, so I’d recommend watching a quick YouTube video beforehand to learn the basics. Most importantly have FUN!

What an amazing place!! I have been here multiple times, and each time took more people with me to go paddleboarding. The water is average cleanliness for lake water, but I didn't have any concerns going in or with wildlife. The area by the dock has a mini lake, which is connected by a long canal that you paddle along to see be in the main area of Lake Woodlands. Every time I went I had a pleasant experience, and the rentals were extremely affordable for several hours.

Great place for kayaking ! Have been here 4 times. Always rent tandem kayaks. Prices are reasonable. Not a great swimmer but feel safe in these kayaks and after wearing life vests 😄 After kayaking take shuttle ride through the park. It's very entertaining. Park here has lot of space for kids to play and on weekends there is live music too at times.

Super easy to make a reservation. When we got there, they got us right in and on the water. 2 hrs was plenty of time and you can take a backpack w snacks and drinks. We will absolutely be back again!!

Riva Row Boat House-thank you Tyler and Joseph for taking such good care of us. Lovely time on the water, saw birds,turtles and some huge homes.

We have rented kayaks (paddle&petal) and have had a great experience both times! Just recently rented the swan boat for a group of 4 of us and again, a great fun and simple way to just get out of the house! The only thing is the area that the kayaks are in is a much bigger area where as the swan boats kind of get a smaller section to go but other than that great experience every time!

They have a great selection of water craft and the view down the waterway is amazing. You're starting further away from the fountains and the Water Dragon but if you have a little cardio and arm strength you can make it. Unfortunately, the managers are rude and unhelpful. It's not the employees, it's the managers. Hopefully the Lake's Edge Boat House isn't closed for that long. It's still worth the money and would be 5-stars if not for the way they speak to the general public.

Beautiful place for a good row. This places offers a variety of things to do not only kayaking. It has pedal boats and swans as well great for families with little kids. I recommend that you reserve online or call ahead of time because they always sell out of everything. The only negative thing I have to say about this place is that their life vests are too old and they stink. So, I recommend that you take your own.

Booked a 5:45 pm time slot for a date and everything went so well and smoothly my surprise planned out perfectly and I couldn't ask for a better place to go canoeing on such a beautiful lake with wonderful views. Workers were great and helped you in and out of the canoes and kayaks, 10/10 recommend

It's so so cute out here!! There are multiple docks where you can launch your own kayak or paddle board. Or you can rent one. It was only $15 for 2hrs of kayaking! That's a STEAL! The river opens up into a big lake where you can stare in awe at all the beautiful houses on the lake. I definitely want to come back! We came around 12:15pm on a Sunday and were able to immediately get 3 single kayaks. When we paddled back around 2:30pm there were a lot of people waiting. I recommend going earlier!

Very dishonest place. The swan we rented was very slow to the point I thought it was broken. Other swans were blowing right past us at 10 times the speed with less effort. We were peddling hard and it was barely moving. It was terrible. I called Riva Row Boat House from the waterway informing them that our swan wasn't working properly and turned around to take it back. It was torture, The manager would not refund the $38 for 2 hours that I had paid. We had it for 30 excruciating minutes. He said he was aware that some swans were much slower than others. The difference between our swan and others passing us was night and day. I would not be complaining otherwise. Not acceptable! They don't care if you have a good experience or not. Very disappointing. I would've considered a gift card to come back instead of a refund, but the manager Ed was so arrogant and saw no wrong in this situation. I don't ever want to go back to there again. Consider yourself warned about swan #11 at least.

Very relaxing, but better go on a cooler day :) the price is reasonable, we went on a Saturday morning so it was pretty quiet and peaceful.

River closed ahead! No one mentioned it and paid for 1 hour and lasted 25m to go and come back and by the time we came back because like I said it was closed ahead we were bored and tired of pedaling the boat. The swan boat it's hard to pedal and to advance. Also I didn't like that I had to leave my license with the young guys down the bridge in charge of everything. Now days it's not that easy to trust no one with your license. Also u have to fill out papers online for every single adult or child. I guess it's ok if you don't mind but wasn't what I expected.

Great experience and family friendly environment! It was our first time kayaking and it really was a great experience. Will definitely go back.

Tired of being indoors? Need something safe and fun to do? Get your dose of sunshine and Vitamin D on the water. Go to their website, fill out the waiver. Show up with ID, sunglasses or maybe a hat and that email proving you filled out that waiver. Swan boats can accommodate up to a party of 4. $25/hr and then $5 for additional hr. Super easy to maneuver and pedal. Did not break a sweat once going back and forth the waterway. My 5 yr old enjoyed waving hi and saying good morning. I think he enjoyed spreading a little cheer. Ok now the Covid stuff. Yes. Wear your mask to the registration desk for pick up and return. Yes. You can take them off on the water. We felt very safe on the water. There was very little traffic even on a beautiful Saturday morning. Kayaks and life vests are sanitized with Lysol. So if you get a vest that's damp, don't freak out. It's most likely Lysol. If you don't like it, look on another rack there might be a dryer vest or come right when they open. We did. The only thing I could see someone object to is that the swan boats are not sanitized after each rental but their method is just dousing the boats with Lysol spray leaving things quite wet. Who wants to sit in a puddle of Lysol? Not me. If you're germaphobic, bring some of your own wipes. Problem solved. There is no attendant to help you into the swan boats but we didn't have any issues of find them (upstairs) or launching them. It was a lovely well spent Saturday, takin sun, a little breeze and friendly waves.

Highly recommend this place! I love kayaking and unfortunately have not been kayaking in or near Houston since I've been here. Now, after coming here, Teddy and I might be here every weekend! I honestly thought this was just going to be around the Waterway (30-45 minutes), but had no idea it led to a HUGE body of water/lake! Had I known and packed accordingly, we could have easily spent hours out there. So much fun. I loved that this place had their hours/dates/times updated online, prior to me going. Very much appreciated. Additionally, I loved that this place encouraged bringing our furry babies!! They have a number of rentals you can choose from. We got the tandem kayak so we could have plenty of room for the two of us. The tandem kayak is $5 more than the single kayak. They have life jackets for your pups, but I would recommend bringing your own, in case they don't have your pup's exact size. As you can maybe see, Teddy is kind of in between sizes so it did not fit him perfectly. No worries! I was appreciative of the fact they had something for him :). He had a blast! Regarding COVID-19: 1. Masks are required 2. Social distancing is enforced 3. Staff members are not allowed to help you on and off your boats, minimizing contact 4. They sanitize between each use 5. Alcohol is at the counter for you to use If any of my Yelp friends want to go, hit me up! We're down.

We rented single kayaks and loved it. Definitely a good price for the experience in my opinion. It was pretty windy on the day we went so we fought the wind to get out to the open water. Other than that it was really fun and we had a blast!

I had a great time kayaking with Riva Row Boat House. It was easy making my reservation and the check in process was easy as well. The scenery is breathtaking. I also like the amount of distance that you can cover. They offer other water activities so next time I will try something different.

We had fun kayaking in the lake and relaxing in the suburbs. It's a nice getaway from the city life. Quaint, peaceful, great family fun. Make sure to bring water, snacks, and sunscreen! It gets HOT!!!

First time here and we love it! Great place to go kayaking! Nice & clean facility. Friendly staff. Good price. Beautiful scenery. Great experience!!! We will definitely come back when we have a chance.

What a fun place to rent kayaks, paddle boards, and even better, a swan to paddle on. A must try on Water Way in The Woodlands. The staff is super friendly & nice.

We came first thing on a quiet Monday. Signed the waivers online beforehand. First girl that checked us in lacked manners, imo, and did not provide any instruction other than handing us keys to unlock a swan paddle boat. We are very patient, low maintenance people so we figured it out for ourselves. The second girl, upon returning, was super friendly and nice. We had a nice time on the boat. Very scenic and pretty. Relaxing! I'm unsure if they clean them since there were used wipes on it. There are restrooms across the field going towards the shopping plaza. I still would recommend this place but next time, we'll check out the newer boat house 1 mile down the water that's closer to the restaurants.

Awesome experience! Beautiful place, affordable and many different options! Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful for beginners! Definitely will comeback :)

Less than an hour drive from Houston. Love it here great to go kayak, canoe, paddle boat. Lots of fun! I love water activities and miss it! Glad there's something kinda near Houston with out traveling far. Covid safe.

Came on a Sunday and everything was very well organized and efficient. The kids had a lot of fun and I like that there are plenty of shaded areas for those of us not participating to sit and watch! Will definitely be back!

Organized. Professional. Helpful, but hands-off and won't bother you about lessons. Did learn that peak hours are 11a - 1p. So fill out the waiver online and arrive early! It'll make the experience much more enjoyable

This was a lovely stop on our way back from La Torretta this past weekend. We kayaked leisurely for an hour without a guide through the Woodlands Waterway. The people at the Boat House were very friendly, kind, and helpful. We definitely hope to return. . . also, it's a forgiving waterway for those who have minimal kayaking skills too. What a lovely discovery. We hope to return soon!

I love this place. I went with my friends, we enjoyed the the trip around the lake. They have different boats and the lake is big. It's a good place for enjoy the nature.

This is such a cool way to spend the day! They have tons of boats, so although it says first come, first serve, I wouldn't sweat it. They offer life jackets and little drawstring bags to keep your stuff dry. They'll even give dogs life jacket. We rented a kayak for 2 and for $20 had the time of our lives. We both lamented we can't wait to do this again. Oh - and there's tons of street parking on Riva Row near the boathouse.

What a workout! I love being by the water because it's beauty is therapeutic. However this was the first of many adventures of exploring water activities outside of swimming and I have a new respect for anyone who partake in any rowing sport, you definitely need stamina to get around. My fiancé decided to hangout here instead of the beach. I'm glad we did because were able to be by the water but avoid crowds and the aftermath of sand. Although there were other guest on the water it was very peaceful and quiet. Everyone was able to spread out and row at your own pace. I highly recommend going after 4 pm to avoid the sun beaming down on you. With this gem being nestled in the middle of Woodlands biggest retail area it was easy to transition from water to the bar followed by a movie date. The only reason I did not give it 5 stars is because I felt that they should offer some type of safety course/video that goes over best practices. After you pay and sign the waiver they tell you to grab a life jacket and go and the guy that helps you get on to the boat just nonchalantly ask if you have any questions. Overall I had a great time and I will definitely return a few more times before the summer ends.

This place is awesome and about the best option to go kayaking in/around Houston. The prices are fair, the route is long enough to enjoy yourself and scenic as well. There is plenty of street parking by the boathouse and you can walk to grab something to eat after as the restaurants and bars are close by. The only drawback is their lack of restrooms (only one in the office that we need to take turns to use), and also their life jackets. The life jackets were gross, visibly growing mold on most of them, and they smelled. I know they won't exactly get sanitized after every use or anything but the visible mold was a bit much.

Ive been looking for a place close enough to Houston to Kayak that doesn't involve the bayou and this was the perfect spot to choose. I usually drive out to Austin, but would prefer this 30 mins drive on days I just need a little out doors. Went on a Sunday around 12:30 and there was no wait for kayaks, (paddle boards were sold out), when we got a little after 2, the line was very long! Just a tip for timing. Kayaks were in good shape, covid regulations were being followed as best as possible, parking was easy on the street. The lake and area to utilize was way bigger than I anticipated. Will be back. I will say if we didn't know how to kayak there were no instructions given and we weren't asked if we knew what to do.

Really great place to go kayaking! Make sure to fill out the waiver ahead of time online to speed things up. Facility was very nice and clean. Nice kayaks and oars. They even comped the extra hour that we stayed out! Highly recommend this place.

The best spot I have been with family fun. Rode bikes and boats.The food was really tasty and the location was everything. Make you forget about your life problems for a minute.Will be back soon. Spring break was great 2021!!

Such a beautiful little area to enjoy the water. I had to make a few switches back and forth with the tandem and single kayaks and these guys made it really easy to make those switches. Great customer service!

I love the swan boats, I do wish it was open to more of the lake, like when you kayak. But it's still fun, pricing is fair enough.

This was my first time doing anything like this so I called a couple times ahead and the employees were nice and helpful. The gps didn't give me exact directions to how to get there so we ended up walking a whoooole bunch there/back and it was easy to get started you just have to at least have one person 18+. The only reason im not giving it a 5 star is because the vest were extremely dirty and since i was new to this a little instruction on how to paddle would've been helpful, instead he asked if we had any questions while pushing us off into the water not giving us a chance to answer. Other than they they helped us on and off the kayak for the most part it was pleasant.

I went here to kayak before, and I loved the views and the ease of reserving a spot. I would check their hours since they close on Wednesdays and prepare beforehand with ID and waiver. Great location to kayak, SUP, pedal boat, or just walk/jog around.

Loved this. Despite covid it was super easy and quick process to get our kayaks. Everyone is really friendly. We enjoyed our time out there and will be back soon

A kayaking we will go, a kayaking we will go, hi ho the dairy o, a kayaking we will go. We probably signed our lives away judging by the quick skim of the disclaimer, but we didn't mind. We had set our minds to kayaking. The cashier was genuinely nice as he explained the kayak rental process. It's $15 the first hour and $5 every hour. The all day price is $35. This includes the kayaks, paddles and life jackets by Orvis. We left our IDs with him, sort of like a guarantee to return the equipment provided. Kayaker Beware. Leave purses and backpacks behind in your car, the lockers provided don't have locks and the staff won't guarantee safe keeping. Keep your cameras, car keys, cellphones tightly sealed in a provided ziploc bag or water damage will claim the life of your beloved electronic. Life jackets tightened, we were ready to board the kayak. For several of us (6 out of 9 of us, it was our first time to kayak). We laughed at ourselves as we figured out how to maneuver the kayak. We'd warn kayakers within a 100 yards, we were kayak beginners. My worst fear, after capsizing, was colliding into another kayak. The other kayakers were friendly. Many of them said hi or waved as we paddled away along the track. Four Fun Things to do on a kayak... #1 Tow another kayak, I didn't know it was possible. #2 Have a picnic, we got near the edge, put kayaks against each other and ate drank, talked, laughed. Good times. Good times. #3 Capsize, you know, the part where you lose balance and fall into the water. Just kidding. The water is green, like a lake water ought to be. #4 Paddle to the Fountain, after paddling in a kayak until your arm muscles are sore under hot sun, the droplets of water are totally refreshing. Your inner kid will thank you. Over-comitted, I only had two hours exactly to kayak. When my fellow paddler told me the time was 1:30pm. I turned into the drill sergeant, calling out strokes in a rhythmic way, (left... left... left.. right-left), trying to encourage my fellow paddler to re-energize. My only regret was not being able to witness someone falling off their kayak. How I wanted to yell out "man over board", but I didn't get my chance. Perhaps next time. I'm planning to come here with the group. Let's just hope I can get around the pesky no kayak reservation.

I took my son for ride on a swan boat. There was quite a wait due to their setup of one window for renting and getting your id back. The young man that took my info was very helpful. You need to fill out the waiver online before you get to the window which might need to be posted(QR code), farther away from the booth so you can do it while you wait instead of when you are almost next in line. I gave it 3 stars because there is no assistance for the swan boats. The kayaks have workers to assist but getting in swan boat and having to unlock the lock can be a little bit of a challenge without another adult.

I've kayaked here several times, and I've always enjoyed it. The equipment is clean, the staff is friendly, the water is calm... there isn't much more to it. It's a very easy kayak trip because the water is very calm. The staff is pretty lenient on prices... we were actually out for 1.25 hours but only got charged for the first hour. I like bringing dog treats to this because sometimes you'll see dogs in the back yards.

If you like kayaking this place is worth the drive. You can kayak or paddle board thru Lake Woodlands. You pay by the hour for rentals. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Wear sunscreen and a sun visor, bring your own water bottles. Pets are welcomed.

This place is terrible. I went there to hire a paddle swan with my 5 year old, who was so excited. The staff were so rude, and unhelpful that I ended up leaving with a very disappointed child. They couldn't care less that they lost my business. What a shame.

Large selection of kayaks and kayak hybrids. The staff here is very friendly and helpful! They get your kayaks setup and help you get in and out. It's $15 for an individual kayak and $20 for tandem plus a $5 fee for every hour past the first hour. They are also dog friendly and provide a life jacket for all size dogs! There are parks along the lake where you can dock the kayaks and explore as well!!

We were in The Woodlands for a quick weekend trip with our 12 and 17 year old. Kayaking at the Riva Row Boathouse was the perfect trip. It was inexpensive and so much fun. Beautiful scenery. It's easier if you fill out the waivers online before you get there to save time. We will definitely be back!!!

The 2 girls working today were extremely rude no common sense and lazy. We got there right at 5:00pm and the clock changes to 5:01pm and the rude Hispanic girl says "nope too late" and laughs. We thought she was kidding and they denied our rental. Would not and will not ever recommend or come to this again. The hour would of been to 6:01 closing at 6:00 you wouldn't think that's a big deal much less when we said we would make sure we were back on time and they blew us off and told us to come back. Well I'm not. This is what's wrong with people leave some common decency and how customer service should work. I felt very disrespected.

Had a wonderful experience on the water. I only gave 3 stars due to a rude customer service experience with the young girl they had at the window. My husband and I were ready to pick-up his ID at the (ID pick-up window). She proceed to sit in her chair laid back on her phone and motioned us to go to the line of entry on the other side through the closed window. Thankfully one of the guys noticed we just needed to pick-up an ID and told us to come back to the (ID pick-up window).

I have only tried kayaking at this location but I am for sure in love with the activity. The staff is super friendly and very helpful each time that we go. The water is not deep in case you are scared of falling over. If you go down the path all the way, you will find a lake with a water fountain right next to North Shore park. The great sun, scenery and exercise make for the perfect couples or family activity. It is kid and pet friendly as well. A tip, if it is your first time couples, go in your own kayak lol. This is what one of the staff members when I inquired my first time. He said, we see so many happy couples come and get the two person kayak but then come back upset with each other because they could not co-ordinate in sync to do it properly. I took the advice and stuck with it haha. As much as I love my wife, doing separate canoes is much better for us. Highly recommended if you live in the area. If is not the cheapest activity to do but it sure is fun!

My husband and I went on a date night and couldn't have had more fun. We enjoyed kayaking for our first time. The staff was very friendly and taught us what we needed to know. It was an overall great experience!

Nice facility, nice equipment, good price and an a great scenic views. I spent a couple of hours on the water and enjoyed it the whole time. I will be back for sure.

I absolutely love this boat house and have been coming here for the last two summers and fall. You can not get a better view in The Woodlands! The staff there is super helpful and alwaus lend a hand to help you get started.