How do I access John Slack Park?

John Slack Park is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at John Slack Park?

John Slack Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at John Slack Park?

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

When is the best time to visit John Slack Park?

The best time to paddle at John Slack Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at John Slack Park?

Water conditions at John Slack Park include mild current.

Is John Slack Park good for beginners?

Yes, John Slack 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 with a waterfall in the background

Photo by Michael Barrick on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

John Slack Park

Bloomingrose, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

John Slack Park is a public boat ramp on Big Coal River near Bloomingrose, West Virginia. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. 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

John Slack Park offers river paddling on Big Coal River in West Virginia. Located near Bloomingrose.

Located in West Virginia, John Slack Park puts you on Big Coal 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 restrooms.

Located about 5 min from Bloomingrose, John Slack Park is a convenient option for Bloomingrose-area paddlers.

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 John Slack Park?: John Slack Park is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at John Slack Park?: John Slack Park supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at John Slack Park?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit John Slack Park?: The best time to paddle at John Slack Park is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at John Slack Park?: Water conditions at John Slack Park include mild current.
Is John Slack Park good for beginners?: Yes, John Slack 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: 38.1372, -81.6466