Boating Excursions
Boating is one of the best ways to experience the scenic beauty found at West Virginia’s state parks and forests. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon river cruise or take the family out for an escape on the cool, tranquil waters of Almost Heaven. Whether you opt for a motorized adventure or a paddle-guided glide, West Virginia’s waters are the place to launch your adventure.
Stonewall Resort State Park
A tranquil environment and calming waters await at Stonewall Resort State Park.
Little Sorrel: Stonewall Resort State Park offers yet another relaxing way to take in the surrounding scenery. As the only excursion boat operating on an inland lake in West Virginia, the 125-passenger lake cruise boat – named Little Sorrel – is perfect for private groups, family vacations, group meetings or romantic getaways, with a variety of excursions to choose from. Cruises are available for guests staying at Stonewall Resort.
Pontoons and Aqua Cycling: Picture riding a big tricycle on the water. That is the Aqua Cycling experience. These fun and quirky water vessels seat two people and operate like a paddle boat. Simply turn the handlebar to steer. At Stonewall Jackson Lake, you can rent Aqua Cycles and pontoon boats – both of which are perfect for a leisurely outing on the water. Bring the whole family out on a pontoon, and don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch and a tackle box!
Hawks Nest State Park
Jetboats: At Hawks Nest State Park, New River Jetboats zips you through the rapids to just below the base of the majestic 876-foot-high New River Gorge Bridge. The trip to board the boat is almost as fun as the ride itself. From the lodge at the canyon rim, you’ll take the aerial tram down to the river. It’s a unique chance to experience the beauty of the gorge from both the top and bottom – all in the same day.
Bluestone State Park
Bluestone State Park’s 2,040-acre glimmering lake is the state’s third largest body of water and visitors can enjoy all sorts of aquatic activities. Bring your own boat and utilize the public boat launches or rent one of the fishing or pontoon boats, kayaks or canoes available at Bluestone Lake Marina.
Tygart Lake State Park
There’s no better way to enjoy a warm day than by soaking up some sun and spending time on the water at Tygart Lake State Park. Boat, cruise and slip rentals are available at the Tygart Lake Marina, which is open seasonally, from mid-May through mid-September, depending on water conditions. Tygart Lake’s tranquil waters are wonderful for kayaking, canoeing and stand up paddle boarding as well.
Climb aboard the Princess, a two-deck tour boat at Tygart Lake Marina, for an 11-mile water cruise that is great for parties, weddings and family gatherings.
