How do I access Ivy Hill?

Ivy Hill is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Ivy Hill?

Ivy Hill supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Ivy Hill?

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

When is the best time to visit Ivy Hill?

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

What are the water conditions at Ivy Hill?

Water conditions at Ivy Hill include calm, sheltered.

Is Ivy Hill good for beginners?

Yes, Ivy Hill 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.

green and brown trees beside lake during daytime

Photo by George Barrett on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Ivy Hill

Townsville, VA · Boat Ramp · Public

Ivy Hill is a public boat ramp on Roanoke River - John H. Kerr Reservoir near Townsville, Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

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

About This Location

Ivy Hill offers reservoir paddling on Roanoke River - John H. Kerr Reservoir in Virginia. Located near Townsville.

Ivy Hill sits on Roanoke River - John H. Kerr Reservoir in Virginia, giving paddlers access to miles of reservoir shoreline.

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

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

Ivy Hill sits about 10 min from Townsville, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Ivy Hill ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.
•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
•Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Ivy Hill?: Ivy Hill is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Ivy Hill?: Ivy Hill supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Ivy Hill?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Ivy Hill?: The best time to paddle at Ivy Hill is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Ivy Hill?: Water conditions at Ivy Hill include calm, sheltered.
Is Ivy Hill good for beginners?: Yes, Ivy Hill 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: 36.5759, -78.4189