Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDock

Best Time to Visit

Howell Run

Elk Garden, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Howell Run is a public boat ramp on Jennings Randolph Lake near Elk Garden, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, 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 Jennings Randolph Lake near Elk Garden, West Virginia. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Howell Run is a public access point on Jennings Randolph Lake in West Virginia, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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 calm and sheltered. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock.

Getting here from Elk Garden takes about 5 min, putting Howell Run within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Howell Run ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Paddling Tips

  • Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
  • Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
  • If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
  • Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Howell Run?
Howell Run is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Howell Run?
Howell Run supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Howell Run?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Howell Run?
The best time to paddle at Howell Run is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Howell Run?
Water conditions at Howell Run include calm, sheltered.
Is Howell Run good for beginners?
Yes, Howell Run 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: 39.4096, -79.1201

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Elk Garden
Get Directions

39.4096, -79.1201

Best Paddling in West Virginia

Read our complete guide →

Paddler Reviews

Write a Review

0/5,000 characters

Sign in to add photos to your review.

Trip Reports

Share a trip report

Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Howell Run

Sign In

Paddle Routes from Here

No paddle routes from this location yet.

Be the first to create one!