Visitors to Claytor Lake State Park now have the opportunity to explore the breath taking scenery of Claytor Lake by canoe. New to paddling? The still water of Claytor Lake is a great place to begin! A trained guide will teach you the basic skills you need, and all equipment is provided.
Paddling with a ranger is fun and educational
New for 2013, the “Rove the Cove” canoeing program is offered each Thursday morning from 9 a.m. to Noon through September 5, plus Saturday, September 7.
This family-friendly tour is geared to canoeists of all abilities, and is a great way to experience the park from an entirely different perspective.
Claytor Lake was formed when Appalachian Power Company built a dam on the New River, south of Radford, in 1939. The mountains surrounding the lake offer a lush green backdrop for your excursion, and provide habitat for a variety of flora and fauna. Paddling with a nature interpreter as a guide is both entertaining and educational.
Dolomite cliffs at Claytor Lake
See unique flora and fauna while roving the cove
Featured during the canoe tour are the park’s Dolomite cliff faces. Park interpreter India Crowder explains that the cliffs hold a fascinating and unique fern that can only be found within the state of Virginia here at Claytor Lake State Park. “The ferns documented here in the park are the furthest east in the U.S. that this plant extends in its range” said Crowder.
Canoeing is an ideal way for families to bond. It’s also fun for individuals, groups, or anyone looking for a newadventure.
The trips include personal flotation devices, canoes, paddles, basic canoe instruction, and guided tour, all for a $5 fee!
Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Each canoe holds two people, and ages under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Closed toe shoes are a must.
Pre-registration at the Click here for camping or cabin reservations.
LOCATION: From I-81, take Exit 101 (Claytor Lake) to State Park Road (State Route 660).
The park is located at6620 Ben H. Bolen Drive, Dublin, VA 24084; Latitude, 37.057372. Longitude, -80.627394.
Have fun on the water, explore breath taking scenery, observe wildlife habitat, and discover geologic history, all in one morning’s canoe trip.