How do I access Kanawha River?

Kanawha River is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Kanawha River?

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

What amenities are at Kanawha River?

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

When is the best time to visit Kanawha River?

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

What are the water conditions at Kanawha River?

Water conditions at Kanawha River include mild current.

Is Kanawha River good for beginners?

Yes, Kanawha River 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.

River flowing between hills under a clear blue sky

Photo by Venkatesan P on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingFishing Pier

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Kanawha River

Smithers, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Kanawha River is a public boat ramp on Kanawha River near Smithers, 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

Launch into Kanawha River near Smithers, West Virginia. Beginner level with mild current water.

Kanawha River is a public launch site on Kanawha River in West Virginia, serving as a popular put-in for paddlers exploring this section of the river.

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 Smithers, Kanawha River is a convenient option for Smithers-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Kanawha River?: Kanawha River is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Kanawha River?: Kanawha River supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Kanawha River?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Kanawha River?: The best time to paddle at Kanawha River is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Kanawha River?: Water conditions at Kanawha River include mild current.
Is Kanawha River good for beginners?: Yes, Kanawha River 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: 38.1817, -81.3175