Activity
Conditions
Amenities
C&P Telephone
C&P Telephone is a public boat ramp on Kanawha River near Charleston, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
River
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing
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
Boat Ramp accessing Kanawha River near Charleston, West Virginia. mild current conditions.
Paddlers heading out on Kanawha River will find C&P Telephone in West Virginia a reliable starting point with established launch facilities.
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.
You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and fishing pier.
Located about 5 min from Charleston, C&P Telephone is a convenient option for Charleston-area paddlers.
Paddling Tips
- •Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.
- •Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
- •River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
- •Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access C&P Telephone?
- C&P Telephone is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at C&P Telephone?
- C&P Telephone supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at C&P Telephone?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit C&P Telephone?
- The best time to paddle at C&P Telephone is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at C&P Telephone?
- Water conditions at C&P Telephone include mild current.
- Is C&P Telephone good for beginners?
- Yes, C&P Telephone 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: 38.3389, -81.6280
Quick Facts
- State
- West Virginia
- Region
- Southeast
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Charleston
38.3389, -81.6280
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Nearby Paddling

Daniel Boone Park
West Virginia · 2.5 mi
South Charleston
West Virginia · 4.6 mi
Dunbar
West Virginia · 5.9 mi
Shawnee State Park
West Virginia · 7.7 mi
Chesapeake
West Virginia · 9.4 mi
St. Albans Roadside Park
West Virginia · 11.4 mi