Richmond, VA: where history meets adventure.
Ever considered discovering the best places to paddle board in Richmond?
The scenic James River and its surroundings offer thrilling experiences.
Grab your paddle board, and let’s explore Richmond’s waters together. Are you in?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Richmond
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 James River
- ????️ ️Location Type: River
- ???? Access Point: Pony Pasture Rapids Park (Google Maps)
- ????Water, Currents & Wind: Varies, gentle to moderate currents, mild wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ????Wildlife Encounters: Herons, ducks, fish, turtles
- ????️️ Landmarks & Views: Forested banks, rapids, Belle Isle
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Use caution in rapids, be mindful of water levels
The James River, flowing through the heart of Richmond, offers plenty of opportunities for paddle boarding.
The river’s beauty and wildlife make for a picturesque environment. Be prepared to navigate through gentle rapids, adding a touch of excitement to your paddleboarding experience.
#2 Robious Landing Park
- ????️ ️Location Type: Riverfront
- ???? Access Point: Boat ramp at Robious Landing Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm to moderate currents, mild winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Herons, fish, turtles
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Wooded shores, Huguenot Bridge
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for other watercraft, obey park rules
Robious Landing Park, located on the James River, provides a great spot for paddle boarding.
With lush, wooded shores and access to calm sections of the river, Robious Landing Park offers a tranquil experience, perfect for beginners and experts alike.
#3 Huguenot Flatwater
- ????️ ️Location Type: Riverfront
- ???? Access Point: Huguenot Flatwater parking lot (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm, smooth waters
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Herons, ducks, fish
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Riverside Drive, Huguenot Bridge, Bosher’s Dam
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Observe park regulations, respect nearby fish habitat
Huguenot Flatwater, a part of James River Park System, offers a peaceful paddleboarding experience on calm, smooth waters.
It’s located upstream of the Huguenot Bridge, providing a serene setting for those looking for a relaxing day of paddling.
#4 Chesterfield Blueway
- ????️ ️Location Type: River
- ???? Access Point: Dutch Gap Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Mild currents, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds, turtles
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Dutch Gap Conservation Area, Henricus Historical Park
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be mindful of boat traffic, respect conservation area rules
Chesterfield Blueway offers a network of water trails within the Dutch Gap Conservation Area along the James River.
This area provides paddleboarders with beautiful wetlands, rich wildlife, and a glimpse into Virginia’s history at Henricus Historical Park.
#5 Swift Creek Reservoir
- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Swift Creek Park (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm waters, occasional wind
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds, turtles
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Wooded shores, scenic waterfront homes
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to lake regulations, be aware of restricted zones
Swift Creek Reservoir is a serene location perfect for a leisurely paddleboarding experience.
Surrounded by wooded shores and beautiful waterfront homes, this peaceful lake is ideal for paddlers seeking a tranquil getaway not far from the city.
#6 Ancarrow’s Landing
- ????️ Location Type: Riverfront
- ???? Access Point: Ancarrow’s Landing Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Moderate to swift currents, variable winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Fish, birds
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Richmond skyline, Manchester Climbing Wall
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious of swift currents, respect park rules
Ancarrow’s Landing, situated along the James River, provides a great view of the Richmond skyline. Paddleboarders can take in the sights of the city while enjoying the urban backdrop.
However, be mindful of the swifter currents in this area and adhere to park guidelines.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Richmond?
Richmond offers several paddle boarding spots including James River, Huguenot Flatwater and Dutch Gap Conservation Area.
Do paddle boards need to be registered in Richmond?
No, paddle boards do not require registration in Richmond.
When is the best time to paddle board in Richmond?
Paddle boarding in Richmond is ideal from late spring to early fall, when the weather is warmer.
