How do I access Bent Creek?

Bent Creek is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Bent Creek?

Bent Creek supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Bent Creek?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Bent Creek?

The best time to paddle at Bent Creek is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Bent Creek?

Water conditions at Bent Creek include mild current.

Is Bent Creek good for beginners?

Yes, Bent Creek is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

tilt-shift photography of man riding boat

Photo by Chip Vincent on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Bent Creek

Gladstone, VA · Boat Ramp · Public

Bent Creek is a public boat ramp on James River near Gladstone, Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

River access at Bent Creek near Gladstone, Virginia. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Bent Creek offers access to James River in Virginia. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Expect mild current conditions on the water. The best time to visit is March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Bent Creek sits about 5 min from Gladstone, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Bent Creek?: Bent Creek is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Bent Creek?: Bent Creek supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Bent Creek?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Bent Creek?: The best time to paddle at Bent Creek is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Bent Creek?: Water conditions at Bent Creek include mild current.
Is Bent Creek good for beginners?: Yes, Bent Creek is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.5355, -78.8277