5 Best Places to Paddle Board in Charleston, WV

Discover the charm of West Virginia’s capital city as you glide through its waters.

Charleston offers a refreshing paddleboarding experience to satisfy your wanderlust.

Explore the best places to paddle board in Charleston, WV, and embrace the adventure.

Ready to dive into this hidden gem?

Map

Where to Paddle Board in Charleston

Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!

#1 Kanawha River

• ????️ ️Location Type: River
• Access Point: Haddad Riverfront Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle river currents, can be windy
• Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Bass, catfish, heron
• ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Charleston skyline, South Side Bridge
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of boat traffic, follow river regulations

The Kanawha River runs through the heart of Charleston, offering a unique urban paddleboarding experience.

Glide past the city’s skyline with the majestic South Side Bridge in view, creating a perfect combination of nature and cityscape for an unforgettable adventure.

#2 Magic Island

• ????️ ️Location Type: Park
• Access Point: Magic Island Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, light winds
• Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, fish, turtles
• ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Kanawha River, lush green park
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park regulations, be aware of river edges

Magic Island is a small peninsula park located in Charleston, offering calm waters for paddleboarders to leisurely explore.

The lush green surroundings and relaxing atmosphere make it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced paddleboarders alike.

#3 Coonskin Park

• Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Coonskin Park Lake (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, light to moderate winds
• Popular Seasons: Late Spring to Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, turtles
• ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Forested park, golf course
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Follow park regulations, stay within designated areas

Coonskin Park, located just minutes from downtown Charleston, offers a serene lake setting for paddleboarders.

Surrounded by forested parkland and adjacent to a golf course, it’s a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway in nature.

#4 Summersville Lake

• ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Summersville Lake Marina (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, can be windy at times
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Bass, walleye, turtles
• ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Sandstone cliffs, coves, Nicholas County Veterans Memorial Park
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Beware of boat traffic, respect no-wake zones

Located about an hour from Charleston, Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia and a popular spot for boating, fishing, and paddleboarding.

Its clear waters, sandstone cliffs, and hidden coves provide a scenic and thrilling experience.

#5 Bluestone Lake

• ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
• Access Point: Bluestone State Park (Google Maps)
• Water, Currents & Wind: Generally calm waters, occasional winds
• Popular Seasons: Summer and Early Fall
• Wildlife Encounters: Bass, catfish, heron, deer on the shores
• ????️️ ️Landmarks & Views: Wooded hillsides, Bluestone State Park
• Safety, Environment and Rules: Be aware of boat traffic, follow park regulations

Bluestone Lake, about 90 minutes from Charleston, offers miles of shoreline and tranquil scenery for paddlers.

With its wooded hillsides and protected state park, it’s a peaceful escape for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene paddleboarding experience.

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