Boat Launches in Virginia

Boat launch access

Launching a boat in Virginia

Boating Hubs maps 88 boat launches in Virginia across 49 named waters. 61 are public access, and 27 are semi-private, so access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders. Every launch on this page carries its coordinates, so you can route to the ramp rather than to the lake.

Busiest waters in Virginia

• Smith Mountain Lake (23)
• James River (5)
• Rappahannock River (4)
• Wicomnico River (3)
• Back Creek (2)
• Back River (2)
• Jones Creek (2)
• Leesville Reservoir (2)
• Potomac River (2)
• Roanoke River - Leesville Lake (2)
• Whites Neck Creek (2)
• York River (2)

Common questions about Virginia boat launches

How many public boat launches are there in Virginia?

Boating Hubs maps 88 boat launches in Virginia across 49 named waters. 61 are public access and 27 are semi-private, meaning access may be limited to residents, members or permit holders.

Which waters in Virginia have the most boat launches?

By mapped launch count: Smith Mountain Lake (23), James River (5), Rappahannock River (4), Wicomnico River (3) and Back Creek (2). Counts are the number of separate ramps and hand launches on each water, not the number of lanes.

Is there a fee to use boat launches in Virginia?

Launch fees are set by whoever manages the ramp, and Boating Hubs does not hold fee data for Virginia yet, so check the managing agency or marina before you tow. Ramps marked semi-private may also require a permit or membership.