How do I access Harry DeHaven Park?

Harry DeHaven Park is a public dock in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Harry DeHaven Park?

Harry DeHaven Park 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 Harry DeHaven Park?

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

When is the best time to visit Harry DeHaven Park?

The best time to paddle at Harry DeHaven Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Harry DeHaven Park?

Water conditions at Harry DeHaven Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Harry DeHaven Park good for beginners?

Yes, Harry DeHaven Park 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

Harry DeHaven Park

Newbern, VA · Dock · Public

Harry DeHaven Park is a public dock on New River - Claytor Lake near Newbern, 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

Dock

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

Public launch on New River - Claytor Lake in Virginia. Beginner-friendly lake paddling near Newbern.

Paddlers visiting New River - Claytor Lake in Virginia can launch from Harry DeHaven Park, a well-positioned access point on the lake.

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 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 Newbern takes about 5 min, putting Harry DeHaven Park within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Harry DeHaven Park ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Harry DeHaven Park?: Harry DeHaven Park is a public dock in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Harry DeHaven Park?: Harry DeHaven Park 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 Harry DeHaven Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Harry DeHaven Park?: The best time to paddle at Harry DeHaven Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Harry DeHaven Park?: Water conditions at Harry DeHaven Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Harry DeHaven Park good for beginners?: Yes, Harry DeHaven Park 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: 37.0544, -80.6645