It's a fun and relaxing way to spend time on the water. Stand up Paddleboarding (SUP) is taking the country by storm, and is now a mainstream water activity. We are fortunate in Virginia to have plenty of waterways to learn how to SUP. 

Solitary SUP on your own, or

Pick a paddle with friends at Virginia State Parks

WHAT'S THE BIG DEAL ABOUT SUP?

When you are paddleboarding you have the unique advantage of seeing interesting views and what is around you, plus you are close enough to the water to see the life right at your feet. Especially if it is a calm day and the water clarity is good.

People are taking to SUP like ducks to water, literally, they are using SUP for waterway tours, Yoga classes, and even CrossFit training.

NO EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

You can rent a SUP at nearly all of our Virginia State Parks that have water features such as rivers, lakes, and bays. It's a fun water activity that is great for all ages, from younger SUP'rs to older SUP'rs, even dogs can get in on the action and no experience is required. (Lifejackets will be provided for humans).

THE SEASON OF SUP

WALK ON WATER

Rooted in ancient Hawaiian culture, Stand up Paddleboarding or “SUPing” as many call it, has had a resurgence. Originally it was a precursor to surfing, this fun activity is easy to learn and excellent for the mind, body, and soul. Which is perfect, since Virginia State Parks have been called: 

A TONIC FOR THE MIND, BODY AND SPIRIT

In just a short amount of time, you can grab a paddle, step onto this oversized surfboard, and paddle around state park waters. This is a great way to get great exercise and have a blast enjoying the park from the water. You can paddle into park locations that are seldom seen, and encounter wildlife that noisy motorboats usually frighten away.

You can SUP at many of our parks

As long as there is a body of water you can SUP

GET ON BOARD

If you are looking for a little rest and relaxation, SUP just may be what you’ve been searching for, or a full body workout, SUP is good for that too. It’s a wonderful way to get out on the water, and a change of scenery always does a body good. We look forward to another great recreational season at Virginia State Parks in 2018. 

Maybe you can knock this one off your bucket list, try Stand up paddleboarding for an hour or two at your favorite Virginia State Park. You won't have to wait until your vacation, come out and give it a shot.

Find a SUP rental at our parks here, standard hours are usually from Memorial Day through Labor Day, but some rentals can be arranged before then, so be sure to call the park ahead of your visit for hours of operation.

JUST ADD WATER

VIRGINIA STATE PARKS