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Kayaking in Virginia

Kayak Alleghany Highlands

Kayak Alleghany Highlands

Kayaking Trips in Virginia

From the world-class whitewater of the Russell Fork gorge to the post-workday rapids right outside Richmond, Virginia has some amazing places to paddle. If whitewater isn't your thing, there are plenty of calmer sections of river as well as numerous inland lakes and reservoirs with beauty as only New England knows how to do it. Check out all kayaking trips in Virginia for every level of kayaker. Whether you're looking for a guided trip, kayak rentals, self-guided, day trip, multi-day trip, or anything in between, there's a kayak trip in Virginia for you! If you've paddled Virginia before, be sure to share your trip with the rest of us!

Planning the trip of a lifetime? Check out these safe paddling tips and always wear your life jacket


- Brought to you by the Water Sports Foundation and the SFRBTF administered by the U.S. Coast Guard -

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Guide to Kayaking in Virginia

Read on for guides to planning your own kayaking trip to Virginia, seeking out an outfitted trip in the area, connecting with other Virginia paddlers, and many other resources! Find launch site info or trip info on popular paddling destinations like:

  • James River
  • York River
  • Lake Chesdin
  • Chickahominy River
  • Pamunkey River

Kayak Locations in Virginia

If you want to plot your own route, check out all paddling locations in Virginia! Search thousands of put-in and take-out locations on our Paddling Locations Map and be sure to download the Go Paddling app where you can save favorites or create and share a float plan!

Plan a Kayaking Trip to Virginia

Over the years, many of our paddlers have paddled throughout Virginia and were so generous to share their paddling experiences with us in a community trip report. Read a few examples of Virginia community trip reports below:

Connect With Kayakers in Virginia

Looking to connect with other paddlers in Richmond? Below are a number of resources to help get you started:

Kayak Outfitters in Virginia

Looking to rent a kayak or go on a guided trip? Check out these outfitters in Virginia:

Other Resources

Virginia has many great rivers and lakes along with water trails and access to Chesapeake Bay. All that is waiting for you to enjoy and paddle in!