Kayakers paddling through a cypress-lined Southern waterway with Spanish moss

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingFishing Pier

Best Time to Visit

Kimsey Run Lake

Lost City, WV · Boat Ramp · Public

Kimsey Run Lake is a public boat ramp on Kimsey Run near Lost City, 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 Kimsey Run near Lost City, West Virginia. Beginner level with mild current water.

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

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. The Southeast's warm climate and diverse waterways support paddling across most of the year.

Conditions here tend to be mild current, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and fishing pier.

At about 5 min from Lost City, Kimsey Run Lake is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Lost City area.

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 Kimsey Run Lake?
Kimsey Run Lake is a public boat ramp in West Virginia. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Kimsey Run Lake?
Kimsey Run Lake supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Kimsey Run Lake?
On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Kimsey Run Lake?
The best time to paddle at Kimsey Run Lake is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Kimsey Run Lake?
Water conditions at Kimsey Run Lake include mild current.
Is Kimsey Run Lake good for beginners?
Yes, Kimsey Run Lake 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: 38.9581, -78.8183

Quick Facts

Region
Southeast
Getting There
~5 min from Lost City
Get Directions

38.9581, -78.8183

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