Shared by Elise Fegler- District 4 Marketing Intern, as Guest Blogger.

Posted June 24, 2015 | Updated Aug. 23, 2021

If you're wanting to break free from the monotonous day-to-day and needing to cool off from the summer heat, then head to Powhatan State Park to shake things up. 

Grab your family and friends.

Group paddling can be fun for everyone.

The more, the merrier, as this is an activity for both the novice paddler and the experienced whitewater kayaker. Two people paddle the canoes, so be sure to bring a great canoe partner or enjoy having an all-knowing river guide accompanying you.

The launch.

BYO canoe or enjoy a park guided-canoe trip on the James River.

The park has approximately 2.5 miles of the James River waterfront. There are three canoe slide launches for access to the river. Note: boats that must be launched from trailers are not permitted on these slides.

Guests launching a canoe or kayak from Launch A may take a 2-mile float downriver to Launch C. This stretch of water is most generally flat. Check here for current river water levels. Launch B, at the primitive campsite, is for campers only. Those who float to or from locations outside the park will be charged an extra $3 for drop-off or retrieval of their vehicle. Contact the park if you need more info at (804) 598-7148.

Look at Powhatan’s calendar of events.

Canoeing under a bridge on the James River at Powhatan State Park.

Park staff has made it easy for paddlers of all experience levels to enjoy what the park has to offer. 

Pack the right gear.

Closed-toe shoes are required on the guided canoe trips.

Be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, close-toed shoes, water and any snacks they would like during the trip. 

Take your time. 

 Take a break on an island on the James River.

There are many different points of interest to see on your trip, so feel free to look around and take a little longer than usual. The trip usually takes about two hours, but be sure you don’t miss the old aqueducts or the beachy islands. These places are secluded, and you can escape your busy life for a little bit.  

Expect to get hungry.

 Picnic lunches are available at The Cafe at Maidens, located just minutes from the park. 

Canoeing can be tiring, so packing a lunch to enjoy afterward is always a great option. The Café at Maidens is a particularly well-loved spot close to Powhatan State Park if you forget your picnic basket. 

If you're interested in a picnic lunch: The Café at Maiden’s is located at 3847 Maidens Road, Powhatan, VA 23139. Directions to Powhatan State Park and more information can be found here.

Try something new.

Whether you’re a river expert or looking to try something new, Powhatan State Park is a great place for a river trip and the perfect way to cool off this summer.

For information on camping, yurts or our primitive canoe-in campground, click here or call 800-933-7275.

You may also enjoy: Top Five Things to Do at Powhatan State Park.