I just bought a kayak. What are the best places to "put in" in Westchester?

The Ossining Boat & Canoe Club welcomes kayakers as members which gives you a place to store the kayak with easy access to the Hudson River. www.obcc.org

In addition to the above, the launch at the Croton-harmon train station (far south end of the parking lot) leads into the Croton River, which is very pretty and mellow for beginners. You can also head out into the Hudson from there. One of the kayak places rents kayaks there on weekends in the summer.

For many years I have enjoyed kayaking from Cold Spring and Annsville. Annsville is home to Atlantic Kayak Tours which offers instruction as well as trips and Thursday Night Fun Nights. I have learned a lot form the Thursday night outings while watching the sun set across the Hudson River. You can kayak in the creek, Peekskill River and Hudson River. If you put in st Cold Spring head north around Bannerman's island. When a barge goes by you can catch a wave.

For years I have seen row boats and canoes along the shores of the reservoir system in our area. Along Rt 100 close to Rt 35 in Somers and some also along Rt 121 at the NE corner of Bedford. I know that anything with a motor is forbidden and a kayak along with the rowboats I have seen should fit the bill. Call the Towns of Bedford & Somers to ask. Have FUN!

Two good places that come to mind are the Tarrytown Lakes and Croton Point Park. Tarrytown Lake is particularly good for beginners and Croton Point Park offers stunning Hudson River views.