Riverfront Area

With several miles of river frontage in the beautiful Roanoke River Gorge, Explore Park is a great place for your next canoe, kayak, tubing, SUP or fishing excursion.

Rutrough Point - Boat Launch

Located at the end of Rutrough Road, this parking area and boat launch is the furthest navigable point on the Roanoke River before you encounter rapids. Easily paddle from here to Hardy Bridge at Smith Mountain Lake, only seven miles downstream. Parking is $3 per person payable at the on-site fee drop post

Fishing Access

Several sites along the river within Explore Park offer access to catch stripes, catfish and bass. Virginia fishing licenses are required, but not available at the park. Please see the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.