Water Activities

Water activities in and around Damascus, Virginia offer visitors a variety of ways to enjoy the region’s creeks, rivers, and nearby lakes during warmer months. Laurel Creek and Beaverdam Creek flow near town and provide peaceful spots for wading, relaxing by the water, and light exploration, while larger destinations within a short drive such as South Holston Lake and Watauga Lake are popular for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, boating, and fishing. For visitors interested in rentals or guided experiences, regional outfitters offer kayak and tubing options on nearby rivers, allowing guests to enjoy scenic floats without needing their own equipment. These water activities pair well with hiking, biking, and sightseeing in the Damascus area and are especially popular in late spring, summer, and early fall when water levels and weather conditions are most favorable.

For visitors who want equipment or guided trips, several outfitters in the surrounding region provide kayak and tubing rentals and float experiences within an easy drive of Damascus. 

Clinch River Adventures, located in St. Paul, Virginia, offers kayak and tube rentals with guided float options on the Clinch River, and their website is https://clinchriveradventures.com with phone number 276-275-4154. 

Other regional outfitters may also provide seasonal kayaking, tubing, or rafting trips on rivers such as the New River or the Nolichucky River, giving visitors additional options for water recreation beyond the immediate Damascus area. Rental services typically include life jackets and basic instruction, making them accessible for beginners and families, while more experienced paddlers can enjoy longer floats and scenic river sections. Availability is seasonal and weather dependent, so visitors are encouraged to check river conditions and reserve rentals in advance during peak summer months.