Many people associate paddling with the summer months as canoeing and kayaking are water sports that people associate water with cooling off, but York River State Park wants to change your mind!
Some guests get into friendly "splash fights" and capsize on purpose as part of the fun. Others wait until the hot weather fearing they will accidentally tip over and want the water to be comfortable in case they do. After the first cool morning in September, thoughts of paddling are set aside for next year. But wait, York River State Park invites you to paddle into mid November.
Paddling season is not over yet
Those who limit their paddling to the summer months are missing out on a great time of the year to hit Taskinas Creek, Woodstock Pond, and the York River. As the leaves change color, the sunlight on the surface of water creates gorgeous reflections. Muskrats and River Otter can be seen making their winter preparations. White Tailed Deer have been known to wander in the marshes as well.
See the fall colors from the creek
Great Blue Heron can be found year round feeding and flying along the water's edge. For birders, to see the heron's brilliant shades of blue against an autumn foliage backdrop is worth paddling. A Double Crested Cormorant or two may arrive well ahead of the winter waterfowl.
Great blue herons stalk the river shoreline year round
While we don't offer many opportunities for guided paddle trips this time of year, York River State Park does rent canoes and kayaks for use in Taskinas Creek and the York and Jon boats and paddle boats on Woodstock Pond up to the 22nd of November. If the water and air temperature combined is below 120 degrees, management does have the authority not to allow rentals. Check online for program days and times.
Don't wait for next summer to paddle at York River State Park
Come now and experience the scenery from the water at York River State Park before it gets too cold.Don't wait until next June to hit the water. Enjoy the cooler air, stunning colors, and unique wildlife during a fall paddle now!
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 Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.