In all of our Pick Your Paddle trips on Taskinas Creek and some in the York River, we invite our guests to play in the mud. But, this thick, moist soil is no ordinary combination of dirt and water. In fact, it has a special name, we call it detritus. It is a combination of mud, decaying plant and animal material, including animal waste products.

Some guests really get one with nature

But, detritus was a very useful substance during the Native Americans and colonist who lived in estuarine environments. In the spring, deer flies can swarm and bite making enjoying the outdoors unbearable. Back then, there was no “Chain pharmacy around every corner.” But, no self-respecting biting bug wanted to get blood from someone with a layer of detritus on their skin. Since it is not a toxic chemical, it may be healthier to use detritus rather than a commercial insect repellant.

I can hear you saying, “Ewww! That is so gross!” 

Some guests are a little modest with detritus

Sunscreen is a necessity for many people who spend time outdoors in the summertime. But, Stuff-Mart couldn’t save you money and make your life better in the 1600 and 1700’s. A layer of detritus was strong enough to block the sun’s strongest rays on the clearest and hottest days of July and August. 

If it were rated on an SPF scale I think it would be 263

Hikers sometimes get into the act

While the practice of a spa treatment is often associated with ladies, there are some men who go to the spa for a mud facial. The drying mud draws in excess oils, dead skin cells, and toxins and when rinsed off, leaving thoroughly clean and healthy skin. Guess what the first mud facial was? That’s right, it was detritus!

Join us and get a complementary mud facial

So, when you visit the Williamsburg area, don’t worry if you forget your insect repellant or sunscreen, and don’t spend hundreds of dollars going to an exclusive spa for a mud facial. Just sign up for one of our weekend guided paddles and get a layer of detritus on you. 

And when people give you compliments on your healthy complexion, you won’t have to tell them what a great time you had at York River State Park, they can see it all over your face.

Directions to York River State Park:  From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Road) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park. Click here to learn more about events at York River State Park.