How do I access Hales Ford?

Hales Ford is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Hales Ford?

Hales Ford supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Hales Ford?

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

When is the best time to visit Hales Ford?

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

What are the water conditions at Hales Ford?

Water conditions at Hales Ford include calm, sheltered.

Is Hales Ford good for beginners?

Yes, Hales Ford is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

a body of water surrounded by trees and bushes

Photo by Keisha Riley Lemons on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Hales Ford

Moneta, VA · Boat Ramp · Public

Hales Ford is a public boat ramp on Smith Mountain Lake near Moneta, Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Hales Ford offers lake paddling on Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia. Located near Moneta.

Lake paddlers in Virginia will appreciate Hales Ford, which offers direct access to Smith Mountain Lake and its surrounding waters.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Getting here from Moneta takes about 5 min, putting Hales Ford within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Hales Ford ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hales Ford?: Hales Ford is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hales Ford?: Hales Ford supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Hales Ford?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hales Ford?: The best time to paddle at Hales Ford is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hales Ford?: Water conditions at Hales Ford include calm, sheltered.
Is Hales Ford good for beginners?: Yes, Hales Ford is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 37.1429, -79.6568