Attractions » Canoeing/Kayaking

Russell Fork Whitewater Adventures - More Info

Outfitter for day trips on the Russell Fork River,, which offers whitewater rapids of Class III-V+ Outfitter works with individual or family's needs and skills on river rafting.

Breaks Interstate Park Whitewater Season - More Info

Those who enjoy rafting and kayaking on the Russell Fork River look forward to this time each year as they prepare to tackle world class whitewater. Each Saturday and Sunday during the first four full weekends in October, water is released from the John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir, creating Class Five plus rapids on the Russell Fork through the Breaks Gorge.

Different sections of the river provide varying levels of difficulty. Rafters will find Class Two and Three rapids closer to the Flannagan Dam area, and rapids topping Class Five through the Breaks Park area on sections of the river with names like "twenty stitches," "broken nose," and "triple drop." The gradient of the Russell Fork ranges from five feet per mile to an unbelievable 180 feet per mile. One violent 75-foot stretch, aptly named "El Horrendo," is considered one of the most difficult in the East.

Bark Camp Recreation Area - More Info

The camp offers 25 camping units with tent pad, picnic table and parking spur near 60 acre warm water lake which provides opportunities for fishing and boating (electric motors only). Paved boat launching ramp, hiking trails and picnic units with tables and grills are also features of the site.

The lake was constructed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and is stocked with northern pike, bass, blue gill, rainbow trout and catfish. Two handicapped accessible fishing piers have been constructed with a handicapped trail on the northern shoreline below the parking lot.

Clinch River (Scott Co. Access) - More Info

The Clinch River flows through some scenic gorges and has sweeping mountain views. Some sections contain Class I to III rapids. The river offers canoeing, kayaking and fishing for smallmouth and muskies. The Nature Conservancy has designated the river as one of the "Last Great Places" in America because it is home to protected species of mussels.The Clinch River is great for fishing. Fees do apply for obtaining fishing license that is required for fishing.

Hunters Ford Island - More Info

Located just outside of the Jefferson National Forest next to the bridge on Rt.65 near Dungannon. Unlike any other campground in Virginia, the island is nestled in the waters of the Clinch River. 10 tent sites and 2 cabins; cabins $20/night, tents $6/night, pop-ups $8/night, large group rate to rent $75/night. Paddleboats and canoes privided, volleyball, horseshoes, fishing, and picnic tables. Shower house is conveniently located on the island. No electricity on the island.

John Flannagan Dam and Reservoir - More Info

Located in a rugged, wooded Cumberland Mountain setting, this V-shaped 1,145 acre reservoir stores waters of the Cranesnest and Pound Rivers: this is some of America's cleanest and clearest water (some spots, visibility of 40+ feet). The reservoir provides flood control, low-flow augmentation, fish and wildlife enhancement, water supply and recreation, including: picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing motor boating, water-skiing, marina, launch ramps, hiking, hunting, whitewater rafting and a visitor center.

Russell Fork River - More Info

A tributary of the Big Sandy River, the Russell Fork River is a scenic series of rapids, pools and tortuous twists. Wold class whitewater rafting opportunities are available on the river running through the Breaks Canyon (Breaks Interstate Park) below the John Flannagan Dam four weekends in October when released from the dam create raftable water. Whitewater rating; Class III-V+, depending on the stretch of river. Ability exists to run easier rapids or harder rapids without running the other. Kayakers or rafters will enjoy this intense river.