How do I access Claytor Dam?

Claytor Dam is a public dock in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Claytor Dam?

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

What amenities are at Claytor Dam?

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

When is the best time to visit Claytor Dam?

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

What are the water conditions at Claytor Dam?

Water conditions at Claytor Dam include mild current.

Is Claytor Dam good for beginners?

Yes, Claytor Dam 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.

a large waterfall with a bunch of rocks in front of it

Photo by Kedar Gadge on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Claytor Dam

New River, VA · Dock · Public

Claytor Dam is a public dock on New River near New River, 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

Dock

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 Claytor Dam near New River, Virginia. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Claytor Dam offers access to New 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.

Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from New River takes about 5 min, putting Claytor Dam within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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 Claytor Dam?: Claytor Dam is a public dock in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Claytor Dam?: Claytor Dam supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Claytor Dam?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Claytor Dam?: The best time to paddle at Claytor Dam is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Claytor Dam?: Water conditions at Claytor Dam include mild current.
Is Claytor Dam good for beginners?: Yes, Claytor Dam 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: 37.0886, -80.5788