Zink Lake Opens For Kayaking And Paddle Boarding Enthusiasts

With Zink Lake officially open to the public, Tulsans are excited to get out onto the water to try different water sports. Kayaking and paddle boarding are among the top activities people can take part in. 

The Gathering Place and white water flume aren't the only places to access and enjoy the new Zink Lake. At Riverwest Festival Park, a pop-up rental business is offering kayaks and paddle boards.

The Arkansas River in Tulsa hasn't always been a hot spot for recreation on the water, but Zink Lake is changing all that, opening the door to new possibilities.

“We just wanted to be able to bring an activity to wear everyone in the city can go out and enjoy the beautiful lake,” says Chase Sturn with Zink Lake Rentals.

Sturn runs a rental business in Austin, Texas, and came up to Tulsa to offer kayaks and paddle boards. 

“Getting out on the water, it's really soothing; you can kind of put your phone away and relax. You get to kind of see the city from a different vantage here,” said Sturn. 

He says you can reserve kayaks and paddleboards ahead of time or just walk up and give it a try. 

The inflatable kayaks are meant for pretty much anyone of all skill levels, people just need to come out to River West Festival Park, rent a kayak, and get out on the lake.

It's a small pop-up operation right now, but it's giving people a chance to try something new.

“My first time, so watch out,” said Richard Payne.

Payne was riding his bike along the trails and decided to jump in a kayak for himself.

“Get a little exercise and see a little scenery and maybe some animal life if there's some out there, and just have a nice ride on the kayak,” said Payne.

Chase Sturn is happy to bring something like this to Tulsa and is using the next couple of months to see how much interest there is. 

“We're here now, and who knows, a couple months down the road or even next season, but we would love to be here next season here in Tulsa,” said Sturn.

River parks officials say accessing the water is free, and you can certainly bring your own kayaks or paddleboards down to the boat ramp here to enjoy the lake.