Waterways

Charlottesville and Albemarle County are home to two rivers: the scenic Rivanna River and mighty James River. Both offer opportunities to kayak, canoe, tube, or SUP. If you're looking for a more laid back experience, look for calmer bodies of water like Ragged Mountain Reservoir, Beaver Creek, and Walnut Creek.


There are a number of retailers in town who can set you up with the gear you need to hit the water. Explore our outfitters at the bottom of this page to determine where to rent a tube, kayak, stand up paddle board, and more.

Rivanna Sampler

2 miles

A beautiful paddle from Darden Towe Park to Riverview Park, with a few mellow rapids as well as calm water and beaches, this is a great introduction to the Rivanna River for beginners. Plan for approximately 2 hours on the water.

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James River: Hatton to Scottsville

3.5 miles

The most common paddling trip on the James River in Southern Albemarle. This route starts at the Hatton Ferry crossing near James River Runners, and travels almost 4 miles downstream to the town of Scottsville. The public takeout is located in front of James River Rafting and Reeling, giving you outfitters at both ends of the trip. Plan for approximately 3 to 4 hours on the water.

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Ragged Mountain Reservoir

3.2 miles

This paddle on the flat water of the Ragged Mountain Reservoir is surrounded by nature on all sides and takes you to another world just outside of Charlottesville. You can also hike a 6-mile trail that circles the reservoir.

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Beaver Creek Reservoir

3.2 Miles

Beaver Creek Reservoir is one of the largest bodies of flat water in the area, utilized for all kinds of different water sports. A stunning view of the Blue Ridge Mountains can be see from the middle of the reservoir, and a boat ramp near the parking lot makes it easy to get your paddle craft in the water.

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Walnut Creek Reservoir

1.8 Miles

A water route at Walnut Creek Park. This paddle comes with the option for many additional activities at the park including swimming, bicycle riding, hiking, disc golf, bird watching, and more. A boat ramp and dock make it easy to get into the water, and you can also find multiple restroom facilities within the park.

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Explore Waterways

Explore the map and read summaries of popular water routes before. You can return to all outdoor routes here.

Prepare for Your Adventure

Bring a life jacket. Virginia law states that there must be one wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket for each person on a boat, including paddle craft such as canoes, kayaks, and stand up paddleboards. Each of our local outfitters will provide you with a life jacket when you rent from them.

Be aware of water levels and river conditions. Water levels vary throughout the season. Watch the local forecast and check in with our local water outfitters for their recommendations on when it's safe to paddle. Follow these links to monitor the Rivanna River and James River conditions.

Bring enough food and water. It's important to stay hydrated at any time of year. Make sure you have enough food and water for the duration of your paddling trip.

Pack it in, pack it out. Make sure any trash created during your trip stays with you and is properly disposed of.

Have a plan and make sure someone knows the plan. Make sure you know how to get back to your vehicle at the end of your paddling trip. Be sure to share your plans or location with someone you trust.

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Land Acknowledgment

We acknowledge that the land we recreate on and refer to as Charlottesville and Albemarle County is the ancestral lands of the Monocan Nation and its people. The Monacan Indians have lived here for over 10,000 years and continue to live here to this day. We acknowledge their presence as well as their current and historical contributions to this region.