Virginia State Parks has launched a new self-serve kayak rental program, expanding access to on-the-water recreation and offering visitors greater convenience and flexibility.
In partnership with Whenever Watersports, automated kayak rental kiosks have been installed at 10 state parks across the Commonwealth: Bear Creek Lake, Belle Isle, Claytor Lake, Douthat, Fairy Stone, First Landing, Hungry Mother, Lake Anna, Pocahontas and Smith Mountain Lake. All kiosks are currently operational, except for the Smith Mountain Lake location, which is scheduled to open on Sept. 8.
Rental options vary by park, but kiosks may provide single kayaks, tandem kayaks or stand-up paddle boards. Rentals also include paddles and life jackets. Each kiosk provides a simple scan-and-go process that works during regular park hours.
“This pilot program gives our visitors more opportunities to enjoy Virginia’s waterways on their own schedule,” said Dave Collett, acting assistant director of park operations. “By partnering with Whenever Watersports, we’re able to offer an easy, self-guided rental experience that can extend the paddling season and make spending time on the water more accessible for everyone.”
The collaboration with Whenever Watersports enables the park system to offer kayak and stand-up paddle board rentals earlier in the spring and later into the fall, beyond the limits of traditional, staff-dependent concession operations. The kiosks are designed to operate with minimal infrastructure, making them a flexible option for future expansion if the pilot proves successful.
To rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board, visitors will need to download the Whenever Watersports app via the App Store or Google Play. They can find rental instructions posted at each kiosk, along with safety reminders and a QR code linking to additional information. The pilot program will be evaluated at the end of the season to assess usage, visitor feedback and growth opportunities.
For more information about Virginia State Parks and the new kayak rental kiosks, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/kiosk-kayak-rentals.
Caption 1:
Fairy Stone State Park Kiosk
Caption 2:
Smith Mountain Lake State Park Kiosk
