River Runner Outdoor Center

River Runner Outdoor Center is a canoe & kayak store in Columbia, SC. The shop offers kayak and canoe rentals, as well as sales of paddling gear and accessories from leading brands such as Hurricane, Dagger, Hobie and Bonafide. It serves local residents, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore Congaree National Park, providing single‑day adventures and multi‑day expeditions. The business has been operating in the Columbia area since 1983, catering to paddlers, campers and general outdoor needs throughout the Congaree Vista region.

Founded in 1983, River Runner Outdoor Center describes itself as an outdoor outfitter passionate about helping people enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The store maintains a year‑round rental program for kayaks and canoes that launch from Cedar Creek, which the shop highlights as the best way to see Congaree National Park. Customers can choose from a range of rental options for brief outings or extended trips, and the staff encourages callers to learn more about specific packages. In addition to watercraft, the shop stocks a broad selection of racks, accessories and camping equipment, offering expert installation for Yakima racks and other gear. The inventory is extensive enough that not all items are listed online, and the team invites customers to contact them directly for hard‑to‑find products.

The center is located at 905 Gervais Street, just steps from the historic Seaboard Air Line Passenger Depot and the neighborhood known as The Vista. It sits on Gervais Street itself, a short walk from Lincoln Street and the Former Seaboard Freight Depot, and is approximately 0.1 mile from the site of the historic Seaboard Café. These landmarks place the store in the heart of Columbia’s vibrant riverfront district.

With more than four decades of service, River Runner Outdoor Center provides Columbia paddlers and visitors reliable access to quality equipment and guided experiences on the Congaree River.

Services:

• Expert Installation of Racks
• Gear Sales
• Kayak and Canoe Rentals
• Paddling Accessories