As the days get longer, most of us crave spending time outdoors. It’s only natural.
And while Northern Virginia has more than its fair share of sprawling suburbs, there are also loads of incredible state and regional parks to enjoy. Kayaking is a brilliant way to find peace and quiet while enjoying the longer days and warmer nights. Lucky for us, NoVA has several great locations for kayak enthusiasts.
Lake Accotink Park
A hidden gem in Springfield, this tranquil park is home to numerous hiking and mountain biking trails and is an ideal location for any kayaking newcomer to learn the ropes. Lake Accotink, created by damming Accotink Creek, has single and tandem kayaks to rent by the hour, not to mention bikes, and a pier to launch your own boat. Pack a lunch and prepare for a relaxing afternoon in nature. 7500 Accotink Park Rd., Springfield, starting at $14 per hour
Fountainhead Regional Park
With over 2,000 acres of preserved forest along the Occoquan Reservoir, this local park offers plenty of space to spread out. Kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and jon boats are all available to rent, but you’ll have to wait until March 23 when park renovations wrap up. 10875 Hampton Rd., Fairfax Station, starting at $18 per hour
Pohick Bay Regional Park
Pohick Bay Regional Park sits among a number of bays and is just a stone’s throw from Mount Vernon. Don’t let kayaking along the Potomac scare you – Pohick Bay is remarkably calm and a great place to explore by kayak, even for newbies. In addition to kayak rentals, the facility also offers canoes, paddle boats, and stand-up paddleboards. 6501 Pohick Bay Dr., Lorton, starting at $18 per hour
Burke Lake Park
For kayaking enthusiasts who also love to fish, look no further than Burke Lake Park. Though it’s among the smaller bodies of water in this lineup, Burke Lake is one of the best spots for fishing largemouth bass, walleye, muskie, and catfish. To help you get started, the marina offers a limited selection of bait and tackle. Fishing kayaks, rowboats, and canoes are available to rent. 7315 Ox Rd., Fairfax Station, starting at $28 per half-day
Belle Haven Marina
Travel just south of Old Town Alexandria, and you’ll find Belle Haven Marina, a private marina with a prime location on the Potomac. The marina offers sailing lessons for thrill seekers and rentals of Flying Scot and Sunfish sailboats. For a calmer experience, canoes, kayaks, jon boats, and stand-up paddle boards are available. 6401 George Washington Memorial Pkwy., Alexandria, starting at $35 for two hours
Mason Neck State Park
On the opposite side of Mason Neck, west of Pohick Bay, lies Mason Neck State Park. With access to most of the peninsula, this state park boasts over 1,800 acres to explore. Kayakers can launch from Kane’s Creek and paddle out to Belmont Bay for a full-day expedition. Beyond kayaks, the park also offers canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and bicycles for rental. 7301 High Point Rd., Lorton, starting at $15 per hour
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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