Public River Access & Everything You Need to Know about Canoeing & Kayaking on the Potomac River
Are you ready to embark on a scenic adventure along the Potomac River? Have you always wanted to visit the Potomac River but weren’t sure where to access the river? Whether you are a novice paddler or an experienced enthusiast who is unfamiliar with the area, this guide is for you. We will cover everything you need to know for a safe and enjoyable canoeing or kayaking experience and go into detail about public river access points on the Potomac River near Harpers Ferry, WV. The following recommended routes are all mellow stretches of flat water with a few small, class I rapids. These trip suggestions are ideal for beginner and intermediate kayakers alike. The routes will range from 3 to 12 miles, providing options for paddlers of different skill levels and varying time constraints.
How to Stay Safe on the Potomac River
Before embarking on your boating adventure, it is important to prioritize safety. Always check the weather forecast and water levels to ensure conditions are safe. While the Potomac on this stretch is generally calm, conditions can change quickly after heavy rainfall. Please always check water levels and exercise caution. The Potomac River at 5 feet might not sound like a big deal, but when the water is high, the current moves much quicker, and there is more debris, such as trees, floating in the water. Please make sure that you have the necessary safety equipment on your excursion, including but not limited to:
- Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs/life jackets)
- Sun protection such as sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- A whistle in case of emergencies
- An ample supply of snacks and water to stay hydrated and energized
- A waterproof bag to secure keys and phones. It is always handy to have at least one phone on the trip in case of an emergency.
How to Leave No Trace when Kayaking on the Potomac River
For the sake of everyone who enjoys the beauty of the Potomac River, please practice Leave No Trace principles by following these guidelines:
- Pack out all trash, including banana peels, orange peels, etc.
- Stay on designated trails and launch points to avoid disturbing wildlife and vegetation.
- Dispose of solid human waste properly by using designated restrooms or portable toilets.
- Only park in designated parking spots and pay attention to signage.
Public Access Points on the Potomac River
Brunswick Boat Ramp
The Brunswick Boat Ramp offers plenty of parking, vault toilets, and is a great starting point for a downriver trip. To get to the boat ramp, drive across 2 sets of train tracks at the Brunswick Marc Train Station, then turn right immediately after you cross the last set of train tracks. Follow the road, and it will curve into the Brunswick Boat Ramp parking lot. If the parking lot fills up, you can drop your boats at the boat ramp, park your car at the Marc Train Station, and walk back to the boat ramp.
Brunswick Boat Ramp to Lander Boat Ramp (3 miles)
The Lander boat ramp is easy to access for kayakers and tubers. It can get fairly busy on the weekends. It is another great starting or ending point for river trips. Vault toilets are tucked up the road about 100 yards. This route takes about 1-1.5 hours to complete at normal water levels.
Brunswick Boat Ramp to Point of Rocks Boat Ramp (6 miles)
The Point of Rocks Boat ramp has ample parking, a large boat ramp, and vault toilets. Point of Rocks is a great starting or ending point for a river trip. This trip takes about 2-3 hours to complete. If you do not have kayaks, check out River & Trail Outfitters to join one of their self-guided kayaking and canoeing tours on this stretch.
Brunswick Boat Ramp to Nolands Ferry Boat Ramp (9.5 miles)
Nolands Ferry is often empty, and it has a small parking lot. The boat ramp here is narrow and steep. This route takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
Brunswick Boat Ramp to the Mouth of the Monocacy Boat Ramp (12 miles)
The Mouth of the Monocacy Boat Ramp has lots of parking, easy boat ramp access, vault toilets, and it is another great place to end your boating trip. This route takes about 4-5 hours to complete. If you are hesitant about all of the information provided, you can reserve a spot on one of River & Trail’s kayaking & canoeing tours to dip your feet in the water before venturing out on your own.
Canoeing and kayaking on the Potomac River offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for paddlers of all skill levels. The beautiful, scenic views and abundant wildlife are hard to beat. Grab your paddle, grab your PFD, and embark on an adventure you will never forget!
