Easy Kayaking in Virginia

Fun for the entire family, kayaking is a must-try activity the next time you want to fill an afternoon with something creative and fun. Whether you are new to kayaking or just looking for a mellow day on the river, several areas for kayaking in Virginia have water personalities great for children and beginners. 

Some of the rivers and lakes featured offer highly-rated outfitters with professional guide experience, while others will provide rental equipment to help you navigate these exciting waters on your own. So no matter what style of kayaking in Virginia you’re looking for, there is an excellent option for you!

So what are you waiting for? Get your family and friends together to check off these stunning kayak spots! 

Georgetown Waterfront

Georgetown Waterfront Park offers easy kayaking right in the city so you don’t need to travel far for fun. Paddle boards and kayaks are available for rental near the water to make for an accessible adventure. With no rapids or strong water, it’s a perfect experience for getting the hang of being in a kayak for the first time.

Lake Pelham

Great for families with children of all ages, Lake Pelham is a calm lake with no motorboats making it an excellent option for kayaking in Virginia. Full of catfish, this reservoir is also great for fishing and spying on wildlife. With trees lining the shores and dipping into the water, this lake offers gorgeous views and a perfect backdrop for a group lake day photo.

Algonkian Regional Park

Less than an hour outside of the city, Algonkian Regional Park also offers excellent beginner kayaking. This section of the Potomac River is charming for walking and lounging, and it is also an ideal place for hopping in the water on a kayak! The lazier section of the river is excellent for learning the ropes of paddling a kayak and working with a mild current.

Lake Anna

Lake Anna offers endless opportunities to explore bays, marinas, and open water by kayak. Located just an hour and a half away from the city, this lake provides a fun escape without spending the entire day in the car. Enjoy the day kayaking, and then top off the day at one of Lake Anna’s breweries, cafes, and tap houses to toast a well-spent day.

Front Royal Kayaking on the Shenandoah River

The Shenandoah River is a fantastic option for kayaking in Virginia if you want a mix of manageable kayaking levels and some fun small rapids that keep things interesting. Our team also provides all the equipment and transportation you need to have a fantastic, stress-free day of Front Royal kayaking!

You’ll kayak past scenic nature views of the George Washington National Forest and Shenandoah National Park. You can explore eddies, relax in riverbeds, pass by Native American fish dams, and paddle through several exciting class I-II rapids. There are also chances to try river tubing near DC as well as rafting, canoeing, and paddle boarding if you want to try switching up your watercraft. All of our river trips provide a fantastic day on the river for guests of all experience levels!

Feel like it’s time to hop on the river to enjoy some Front Royal kayaking? We have the perfect Shenandoah River kayaking adventure float trip for you and your group! If you have any questions about planning a Shenandoah River adventure, visit our Frequently Asked Questions page or call our office at (540) 635-5440.