How do I access Hawks Nest State Park?

Hawks Nest State Park is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Hawks Nest State Park?

Hawks Nest State Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Hawks Nest State Park?

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

When is the best time to visit Hawks Nest State Park?

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

What are the water conditions at Hawks Nest State Park?

Water conditions at Hawks Nest State Park include mild current.

Is Hawks Nest State Park good for beginners?

Yes, Hawks Nest State Park 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.

a river running through a lush green forest

Photo by Tuan Nguyen on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Hawks Nest State Park

Ansted, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Hawks Nest State Park is a public boat ramp on New River near Ansted, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. 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

Hawks Nest State Park offers river paddling on New River in West Virginia. Located near Ansted.

Located in West Virginia, Hawks Nest State Park puts you on New River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Ansted, Hawks Nest State Park is a convenient option for Ansted-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.
•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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Hawks Nest State Park?: Hawks Nest State Park is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Hawks Nest State Park?: Hawks Nest State Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Hawks Nest State Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Hawks Nest State Park?: The best time to paddle at Hawks Nest State Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Hawks Nest State Park?: Water conditions at Hawks Nest State Park include mild current.
Is Hawks Nest State Park good for beginners?: Yes, Hawks Nest State Park 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: 38.1185, -81.1198