5 Places to Paddle Around Stafford, VA

Grab your paddle & check out these popular paddling spots in the Stafford area:

Whether you’re a seasoned paddle enthusiast seeking new horizons or a curious newcomer eager to try paddle boarding or kayaking, below are a few places in Stafford County you can hit the water and paddle.

1. Aquia Landing Beach Park

This park is located on the Potomac River and offers a sandy beach area, making it a great spot for paddle boarding. It also has picnic areas; pack a picnic basket with some delicious treats and relax for a little bit after your paddle.

📍 Address: 2846 Brooke Rd, Stafford, VA

2. Abel Lake

This 185-acre reservoir provides a tranquil setting for those who love a quiet paddle with breathtaking scenery. A boat ramp with parking is available and the lake is open year ‘round from dawn to dusk

📍665 Kellogg Mill Road, Stafford, Virginia

3. Crow's Nest Natural Area Preserve

This preserve, situated on the Potomac River, offers scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife spotting while paddling.

There are two access options for visitors to Crow’s Nest Natural Area Preserve. If you are paddling, you will want to use the Brooke Road Access and be prepared to sarry your board, kayak, or canoe a little ways.

The Raven Road Access point features an 18-car parking area and 8 miles of hiking trails within the forested interior of Crow’s Nest via an improved 1.6-mile long entrance road. The Raven Road Access is open Thursday-Sunday.
The Brooke Road Access point offers parking for 20 cars, a shoreline birding/nature trail to viewpoints of Accokeek Creek, and an ADA-accessible canoe/kayak launch facility serving as a trailhead for the Crow’s Nest Water Trail. The Brooke Road Access is open 7 days a week.

Public Access Hours:

March 15 – October 31: 8:00 AM until 8:00 PM
November 1 – March 14: 8:00 AM until 5:30 PM

📍 2500 Brooke Rd, Stafford, VA

4. Widewater State Park

Just south of Stafford, Widewater State Park has access to Aquia Creek and the Potomac River, providing a picturesque paddle.

The motor boat launch is open 5 a.m. to dusk. The visitor center is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. 4 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Picnic shelters and playgrounds are open to the public.

📍 101 Widewater State Pk Rd, Stafford, VA

5. Lake Mooney

This 520 acre lake is perfect for a sunset kayak or canoe paddle.

Boat ramp (electric motors only), canoe launch, restroom, 2.09 Hiking/Walking.

📍 495 Greenbank Road, Fredericksburg, VA

Looking for paddling date day ideas?

Check out this blog: 6 Paddle Board Date Ideas.

Looking to save on date nights or family fun?

Get the Date Nights Virginia Savings Pass. The savings pass supports locally-owned businesses and saves pass holders hundreds of dollars throughout the year with a bonus of planned date ideas and family fun.

When paddling, always ensure that you have the appropriate safety gear and follow local regulations and guidelines while paddling. Additionally, keep an eye on weather conditions and water levels to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.