How do I access Staunton River State Park?

Staunton River State Park is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Staunton River State Park?

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

What amenities are at Staunton River State Park?

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

When is the best time to visit Staunton River State Park?

The best time to paddle at Staunton River State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Staunton River State Park?

Water conditions at Staunton River State Park include calm, sheltered.

Is Staunton River State Park good for beginners?

Yes, Staunton River State 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.

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

Staunton River State Park

Red Oak, VA · Boat Ramp · Public

Staunton River State Park is a public boat ramp on Dan River - John H. Kerr Reservoir near Red Oak, 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

Boat Ramp accessing Dan River - John H. Kerr Reservoir near Red Oak, Virginia. calm and sheltered conditions.

Staunton River State Park sits on Dan 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.

Staunton River State Park sits about 10 min from Red Oak, making it a convenient option for local and visiting paddlers.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Staunton River State Park 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 Staunton River State Park?: Staunton River State Park is a public boat ramp in Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Staunton River State Park?: Staunton River State Park supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Staunton River State Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Staunton River State Park?: The best time to paddle at Staunton River State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Staunton River State Park?: Water conditions at Staunton River State Park include calm, sheltered.
Is Staunton River State Park good for beginners?: Yes, Staunton River State 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: 36.6931, -78.6700