PADDLING THROUGH Virginia’s State Parks

Breathtaking mountain views, scenic hikes and peaceful campsites are not all you will find when you visit a Virginia State Park. Various creeks, rivers, and lakes found within the Parks offer visitors a chance to cool off, conquer challenging rapids, and view Virginia’s landscapes from a unique perspective. With 41 State Parks to choose from, you’re sure to find your flow.

Creeks and Rivers

Meander through the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, where you’ll find Shenandoah River State Park. With over 1,600 acres and 5.2 miles of shoreline, this park is popular among families, anglers, and canoeists alike. The Park features a large riverside area with tent campsites and yurts, picnic shelters, hiking trails, and car-top boat launches for easy access to and from the water. Head to the North Fork at Seven Bends State Park, and embark on a kayaking tour. Experience the anticipation around each bend, as you learn about local wildlife and history.

Ride the Rappahannock River to discover tidal wetlands interspersed with farmland and upland forests. Located in Lancaster County, Belle Isle State Park offers guided canoe trips along the Rappahannock, where paddlers of all abilities can show off their skills. For a unique paddle, follow along an abandoned railroad right-of-way at the New River Trail State Park. This 57-mile linear park parallels the New River for 39 miles, and offers plenty of campsites, fishing spots, and trails along the way. Westmoreland State Park, on the Potomac River, is also a one-of-a-kind paddling destination. Rent a raft, and collect ancient shark teeth along the shoreline.

Lakes

Get in and out from the same spot! Virginia’s State Parks are also home to various lakes with calmer waters, and many access points. Explore the clear blue waters at Smith Mountain Lake, or explore the 168-acre lake at Fairy Stone State Park, just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Rent a boat at Occoneechee State Park, where you have access to the largest lake in the state! Buggs Island Lake is 48,000 acres of pure fun, and travels through undeveloped Wildlife Management Areas, full of natural splendor.

Ranger Guided Programs

For added adventure, plenty of guided tours are available at the Parks. Take an early morning kayak tour at Hungry Mother, watch the sun go down over the water at False Cape, or explore the marshes at night on a moonlight canoe tour on the York River. Discover this and much more on a Virginia State Park waterway!

VirginiaStateParks.gov

Whether you’re looking for an urban adventure through town or a remote paddle away from the crowds, Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer beautiful views in central Virginia. Pair your river trip with mountain hikes and award-winning wines from more than 40 wineries on the Monticello Wine Trail for the ultimate summer destination.

Starting in the foothills of Shenandoah National Park, the Rivanna River flows through the city of Charlottesville marked by calm stretches of scenic beauty and fun whitewater for more experienced paddlers. Along the way, you’ll see signs of heron, osprey, smallmouth bass, turtles, and more. Get set with kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboard rentals or a guided trip from Rivanna River Co., conveniently located right off a paved section of the Rivanna Trail. After a full day on the water, hop over to all the amenities of the walkable Downtown Mall, including dozens of restaurants, galleries, shopping, and bars.

From the city it’s just a 30 minute drive to the town of Scottsville on the historic James River. You’ll find this stretch of river relatively quiet and undeveloped as you make your way past farmland and paddle some small rapids. Scottsville’s charming main street offers restaurant options and a brewery for that perfect post-adventure hangout with friends. The best way to experience this river is with a trip from one of the area’s outfitters. James River Reeling and Rafting offers something for every age, including a variety of boat options and trip lengths. Let the experts at James River Runners hook you up with the perfect trip, from a float in a tube to a relaxing paddle in a raft. Both outfitters offer shuttles to the put in and camping by the river to extend your trip. You can even book a river tour or sunset cruise from the James River Batteau Company, where you’ll float in a flat-bottomed boat historically designed to navigate these shallow waters.

Still haven’t gotten your fill? Several lakes and reservoirs in the area offer calm flatwater for a relaxing jaunt, including Beaver Creek Reservoir and Walnut Creek. When you’re all paddled out and filled up with delicious eats, pick from a variety of lodging options. Ranging from high-end resorts and vacation rentals to bed and breakfasts, inns, and chain hotels, there’s a spot to fit your adventure. It’s time to start planning your trip today.

Short Term Rentals are plentiful around Smith Mountain Lake but be sure to book early, as availability goes fast!

VisitCharlottesville.org