The Best Places to Go Canoeing and Kayaking in Virginia
Virginia is a water recreation haven for people of all skill levels, whether you’re new to the game or have logged years of experience. Either way, if you’re looking to go canoeing or kayaking in Virginia, there are plenty of water trails to explore, from coastlines and fishing bays to more than 30 state parks with access points.
Before heading out on the water, research safety requirements and regulations, trail reviews, weather reports and anything else that might support a successful journey. And, if you are a beginner, consider finding group trail tours or guided recreation lessons. Once you’re ready to explore, use this water trail bucket list to launch off with confidence and enjoy a beautiful day out canoeing or kayaking in Virginia.
In This Article
Cat Point Creek Water Trail in Northern Neck
Mostly ideal for novice paddlers, this wildlife refuge encompasses more than 200 acres of grasslands, woodlands and wetlands, making it a great place to go canoeing or kayaking in Virginia. Menokin Bay serves as the main upstream access point. Make sure to scope out a good picnic spot as you are paddling along.
Currioman Bay Water Trail in Northern Neck
Geared toward advanced or expert paddlers, Currioman can be temperamental due to winds and waves. Along the trail, you can find Hollis (Sharktooth) Island, a treasure cove only accessible by water. Plus, this area comes with another history lesson. Keep an eye out for an educational marker, remembering the War of 1812 raid on Nomini Ferry.
Mulberry Creek Water Trail in Northern Neck
This trail is suggested for more experienced paddlers, so be sure to check trail reviews and recommendations before heading out. You can access Mulberry Creek, along with Deep Creek, from Belle Isle State Park. Make it a weekend trip and check out the park’s canoe camping facility along the trail. Watch for ospreys, bald eagles, hawks, white-tailed deer, striped bass and other wildlife.
Cockrell Creek Water Trail in Northern Neck
Head to Shell Landing for an access point, then choose your route. Paddle out to a waterside restaurant for a fun evening or browse the banks for wildlife in serenity. If you’re looking for good eats, try out Leadbelly’s, a local seafood restaurant along the bay. This waterfront community is home to a longstanding fishing industry. Consider brushing up on the history and keep an eye out for landmarks like the Morris-Fisher smokestack.
Bayside Water Trail in Eastern Shore
Explore more of the shore with 100 additional miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced. Since the Bayside Trail is so expansive, it’s more suitable for smaller, divided day trips. Book equipment for the day with a local water recreation shop or pack up the car for a weekend on the water, exploring miles upon miles of the coast.
Seaside Water Trail in Eastern Shore
Running primarily between the Virginia National Wildlife Refuge at Cape Charles and Chincoteague Island, this trail grants you the opportunity to branch out in a variety of choose-your-adventure inlets, islands and seashores. Seaside Water Trail, along with the following Bayside Water Trail, is maintained by the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program.
Mathews Blueways Water Trails in Middle Peninsula
Paddle with your own crew or find a guided tour with the Mathews County Visitor and Information Center. The options are pretty endless at this scenic network of waterways. Narrow down your trip from more than 15 public access points and multiple self-guided trails, then switch it up next time. There are more than 100 miles to explore and many local businesses on hand for equipment rentals.
Virginia State Parks
Chances are you won’t have to venture far from home to go kayaking or canoeing in Virginia.
“Our state parks are great places to get experience, but they’re also great places for more experienced paddlers to branch out and explore different regions,” says Sammy Zambon, visitor experience specialist with the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Zambon, who says he has been paddling for as long as he can remember, notes the department created the Wandering Waters Paddle Quest program.
“You sign up for it, go to our 31 participating parks and log your paddle visits,” he says.
Participants can receive patches, stickers and even a celebratory certificate and ceremony upon completion.
That means that out of 43 state parks, 31 offer water accessibility, so you can always start close to home and branch out from there.
“Because of the variety of paddling opportunities in Virginia, there’s something that’s going to appeal to everybody, no matter their limit or experience,” Zambon says.
This article is sponsored by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.