How do I access Longwood?

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

What activities are available at Longwood?

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

What amenities are at Longwood?

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

When is the best time to visit Longwood?

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

What are the water conditions at Longwood?

Water conditions at Longwood include calm, sheltered.

Is Longwood good for beginners?

Yes, Longwood 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.

an aerial view of a lake surrounded by trees

Photo by Brady Wilson on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Longwood

Clarksville, VA · Boat Ramp · Public

Longwood is a public boat ramp on Roanoke River - John H. Kerr Reservoir near Clarksville, 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

Good

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

About This Location

Launch into Roanoke River - John H. Kerr Reservoir near Clarksville, Virginia. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

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

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle. 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.

Longwood sits about 5 min from Clarksville, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

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

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Longwood?: Longwood is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Longwood?: Longwood supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Longwood?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Longwood?: The best time to paddle at Longwood is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Longwood?: Water conditions at Longwood include calm, sheltered.
Is Longwood good for beginners?: Yes, Longwood 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: 36.5728, -78.5493