Paddle Guide
West Virginia Kayaking: Rivers, Lakes & Paddling
With thousands of miles of rivers and some of the clearest lakes in the East, West Virginia is a paddler's state. You can glide across turquoise water at Summersville Lake in the morning and run mellow riffles on the Greenbrier by afternoon. Here is where to launch, what to expect, and how to do it safely.
Quick Info
- Best For
- Flatwater touring, lake paddling, beginner whitewater, fishing kayaks
- Best Season
- April–October; summer for warm lake water, spring for river flow
- Difficulty
- Flatwater and Class I–II rivers to Class III–V whitewater runs
- Fees/Permits
- Most launches free; some lakes charge day-use or marina fees
- Where
- New and Greenbrier rivers, Summersville, Cheat, Bluestone and Stonewall Jackson lakes
Summersville Lake: The Little Bahamas
Summersville Lake is the clearest, bluest water in West Virginia and the state's top flatwater paddling destination. The 2,700-acre lake, formed by damming the Gauley River, is ringed by sandstone cliffs and hidden coves that make for easy, scenic day trips. Battle Run and Salmon Run are popular launch points, and the lake's Long Point cliffs are a favorite spot for cliff jumping and photography. Paddling here is beginner-friendly, with calm water and plenty of shoreline to explore; the reservoir is drawn down in fall, exposing dramatic rock arches that divers and paddlers love.
- Battle Run — main launch, beach, and picnic area.
- Salmon Run — quieter access on the lake's upper end.
- Long Point — cliffs, deep water, and open views.
- Gauley tailwater — moving water below the dam for skilled paddlers.
Paddling the New River
The New River offers something for every paddler. The Upper New, between Hinton and Prince, is a gentle Class I–III float through farmland and low cliffs — perfect for beginners, fishing kayaks, and families. The Lower New through the gorge is a different animal, with Class III–IV rapids suited to experienced whitewater kayakers or guided raft trips. Most recreational kayakers put in at Sandstone, Meadow Creek, or Glade Creek and take out at Prince or Thurmond. Outfitters in Fayetteville and Hinton rent recreational and sit-on-top kayaks by the day.
Cheat, Bluestone & Greenbrier Rivers
In the north, the Cheat River drains a huge watershed and offers everything from placid lake paddling at Cheat Lake to serious whitewater in the Cheat Canyon. In southern West Virginia, the Bluestone River and Bluestone Lake provide mellow flatwater and warm summer swimming, while the Greenbrier River near Marlinton runs through some of the most pastoral scenery in the state. The Greenbrier River Trail, a 78-mile former rail line, parallels the river and makes shuttling or bike-and-paddle trips easy.
Other quiet-water options include Stonewall Jackson Lake near Weston, with a full-service marina, and Burnsville Lake on the Little Kanawha, a favorite for fishing kayakers chasing bass and crappie.
Rentals, Launches & Gear
You do not need your own boat to paddle West Virginia. Outfitters around the New River Gorge, Summersville Lake, and Cheat Lake rent recreational kayaks, sit-on-tops, and touring boats by the hour or day, often with PFD and paddle included. State parks with lakes frequently have boat rentals, and several marinas offer kayak launch docks. Carry a PFD, dress for immersion, check the weather and dam release schedules, and tell someone your float plan. West Virginia law requires a wearable PFD for each person on board, and children must wear one at all times.
Paddling Safety & Leave No Trace
Watch the Dams
Release schedules on the Gauley and New can change water levels quickly. Never paddle near a dam or a low-head structure; portage well upstream.
Dress for Water
Mountain water stays cold even in July. A synthetic layer and a dry bag for phone and keys make every trip safer and calmer.
Protect the River
Pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, and use established launches. Do not transport aquatic invasive species between waters.
Top paddling spots in West Virginia
New River
Gentle upper stretches and famous gorge whitewater.
Bluestone Lake
Warm flatwater and quiet coves in southern West Virginia.
Gauley River
Expert whitewater and the famous fall releases.
Bluestone River
Mellow water below Pipestem's gorge tram.
Paddle & Camp
Lakeside campgrounds for multi-day paddling trips.
Allegheny Lakes
High-country lake paddling near Snowshoe and Canaan.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place for a beginner to kayak?
Summersville Lake and the Upper New River are both excellent for beginners, with calm water, easy launches, and rental options nearby.
Can I rent a kayak in West Virginia?
Yes. Outfitters near the New River Gorge, Summersville Lake, and Cheat Lake rent recreational, sit-on-top, and touring kayaks, usually with PFD and paddle included.
Do I need a license to kayak?
No license is required to paddle a kayak in West Virginia. Some lakes charge a launch or day-use fee, and all boats must carry a wearable PFD for each person.
Is the New River safe for kayaking?
The Upper New is gentle and beginner-friendly. The Lower New through the gorge has Class III–IV rapids and should only be paddled by experienced whitewater kayakers or with a guided trip.
About Discover WV Today
Discover WV Today is an independent travel guide to West Virginia's mountains, rivers, towns, and hidden corners. We publish practical, locally researched guides — from New River Gorge trails to Hatfield-McCoy ATV routes — so you can plan a better trip.
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