Front Royal, the Canoe Capital of Virginia

Now that the imposed limitations from COVID-19 are almost behind us and summer is on its way, having fun outdoors can mean being on or in the water. Canoeing and kayaking are not only great for seeing picturesque views, but a wonderful way to relax and destress from the hectic pace of day-to-day life. Finding peace and quiet on the water is all part of the overall experience. 

With one of the most beautiful and iconic parts of America’s landscape, the Blue Ridge Mountains, for its backdrop, the Shenandoah River is undoubtedly what so many residents and nature-loving people enjoy most about Front Royal. In 1999, Front Royal received the honor of being named the “Canoe Capital of Virginia”.  The river is controllable for beginners but includes expanses of thrills as well. The canoe has been used for trade and transportation along the river since the earliest recorded history in the Valley, so enjoy the history, beauty, and tradition that canoeing entails in the Shenandoah Valley.

Front Royal is fortunate to have two forks of the river running through our land:
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The South Fork Shenandoah is a popular destination for canoeists and kayakers. The nearness of the river to the more urban areas of Virginia and the bucolic beauty of the valley attracts thousands each year. Several canoe outfitters operate on the South Fork and traffic can be heavy on certain sections of the river during the summer months. Twenty (20) public access points along the entire length of the river creates the opportunity to plan many different float trips of varying distances.

The North Fork is a relatively small, shallow river and is very accessible to wade angling. This part of the river is ideal to float, canoe or kayak. Clear water, pleasant scenery, abundant wildlife, and mild whitewater make the North Fork a paddler’s dream.
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Fishing opportunities on the North Fork:

• Smallmouth Bass
• Largemouth Bass
• Sunfish
• Fallfish
• Muskellunge
• Other fish species: American eel, white sucker, northern hogsucker, common carp, crappie, yellow bullhead, and channel catfish ​

Consider these other benefits of canoeing and kayaking in the Front Royal’s portion of the Shenandoah River:

• Breathtaking landscapes of farms, forest and the Blue Ridge Mountains to enjoy while floating down the river. 
• Waterway wildlife is generally less shy around canoeists and kayakers. Enjoy seeing things that walkers and cyclists rarely get to see.
• A chance to meet new and interesting people. Most nature clubs have a thriving social scene and attract members of all ages and interests.
• Exercise! Canoeing and kayaking offers one of the best upper body workouts by using most of the muscles in your arms and shoulders.
• Gives you something to look forward to. Break away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life and enjoy floating on the smooth waters of the river. 
• Family-fun approved! The whole family can enjoy and be involved. Canoeing is a very accessible sport and is great for kids and adults alike. Spending quality time with them makes great memories that will last a lifetime.
• It is less expensive than you think. Many canoe clubs will offer free test sessions and rent out equipment at very reasonable rates.

Prior to jumping into your canoe, don’t forget these necessary and practical health and safety tips for canoeing and kayaking:

• Learn how to paddle from experienced teachers. Contact a local club.
  
• Know how to use your first aid kit. Take a first aid course if you feel it is necessary.
  
• Make sure your preparation and skills are adequate for the water you plan to paddle through.
  
• Be visible to other crafts. Put reflective tape or fluorescent paint on your helmet, life jacket and canoe or kayak.
  
• Always wear your personal floatation device and helmet.
  
• Make sure you know about potential hazards in the proposed waterway.
  
• Check weather conditions before you paddle.
  
• Do not paddle alone. Always tell someone about your plans, including where you intend to paddle and when you expect to be back.
  
• Dress for the conditions. Apply 30+ SPF sunscreen (or higher) to all exposed areas of skin.
  
• Avoid dehydration. Take plenty of water to drink.

​Canoe outfitters along the Shenandoah River normally provide a shuttle service, drop you off and let you float back a chosen distance to the outfitter headquarters. Looking for a local Front Royal shop to help?

Some combination of canoes, kayaks, inner tubes, rafts and paddleboards, may be rented from Front Royal Outdoors, Downriver Canoe Company or Shenandoah River Outfitters. 

Launching your own vessel is popular, too, and many access points/boat ramps are found in or near Front Royal.  

One of Virginia’s many state parks is nearby as well—the 1600-acre Shenandoah River State Park. It is located eight miles south of town on Route 340, offering miles of riverfront and mountain trails for hiking and mountain biking, as well as cabin rentals, a new zipline and tent camping.


From beautiful mountains, lush pastoral farmland and glistening river waters, Front Royal’s nature will astonish both young and old. Mark your calendar, Friday, June 26th is National Canoe Day! Make it a weekend getaway by renting a cabin, staying in a nearby Bed & Breakfast, and or local hotel. Now is the time to plan your trip to enjoy a river experience in the Canoe Capital of Virginia!