Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Riverside
Riverside is a public boat ramp on New River near Fries, 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
Boat Ramp
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
Launch into New River near Fries, Virginia. Beginner level with mild current water.
Riverside is a public launch site on New River in Virginia, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.
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 mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.
Getting here from Fries takes about 5 min, putting Riverside 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 Riverside?
- Riverside is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Riverside?
- Riverside supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Riverside?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Riverside?
- The best time to paddle at Riverside is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Riverside?
- Water conditions at Riverside include mild current.
- Is Riverside good for beginners?
- Yes, Riverside 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: 36.6728, -81.0222
Quick Facts
- State
- Virginia
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Fries
36.6728, -81.0222
Best Paddling in Virginia
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
More Paddling on New River
6 other launches on this water body
Oldtown
Virginia · 2.8 mi
Baywood
Virginia · 4.3 mi
Byllesby Pool
Virginia · 8.4 mi
Independence
Virginia · 10.0 mi
New River Canoe and Campground
Virginia · 10.1 mi

Loafers Rest
Virginia · 10.8 mi
Nearby Paddling
Oldtown
Virginia · 2.8 mi
Baywood
Virginia · 4.3 mi
Byllesby Pool
Virginia · 8.4 mi
Independence
Virginia · 10.0 mi
New River Canoe and Campground
Virginia · 10.1 mi

Loafers Rest
Virginia · 10.8 mi