Fox River Kayaking Company

Fox River Kayaking Company is where Wisconsin’s river spirit comes alive for both locals and travelers passing through Appleton. Set on the banks of the Fox River, the operation is less a commercial outfitter and more a passionate community guide, eager to share the region's waterways with anyone curious enough to dip a paddle in. The experience starts with genuine hospitality: from the moment you’re picked up and introduced to your guide, there’s an easy camaraderie that puts even first-timers at ease. The guides are patient teachers, attentive to families and solo adventurers alike, making sure every guest feels safe before setting out. The tours themselves are intimate—often just a few boats—skimming past historic locks, tranquil parks, and stretches of water that reveal Appleton from a new angle. There's something quietly thrilling about floating through locks operated by hand, watching the industrial past still woven into local life. Stories drift from guide to guest: histories of river towns, details about wildlife, little asides about which park is best for picnics. Along the way, someone from the crew might pop up onshore or in another kayak, snapping photos to capture moments you’d otherwise forget—a thoughtful gesture that feels generous rather than staged. What stands out most is how seamlessly the company welcomes everyone: seasoned paddlers reliving childhood summers on Wisconsin rivers; visitors discovering Midwest waterways for the first time; families introducing their children to river life. Locals rediscover familiar scenery with new appreciation, while visitors catch glimpses of Appleton’s layered history and laid-back charm. Fox River Kayaking Company isn’t just about renting kayaks—it’s about forging connections: with nature, between neighbors old and new, and with stories that linger long after your arms have stopped aching.