Paddle with Friends

Whether you’re looking for someone to show you the line down a class IV rapid or a group of like-minded paddlers who want to protect our rivers, there are plenty of clubs and organizations to help everyone from the first-time kayaker to experienced stand-up paddleboarder.

The great thing about joining a paddling group is that you’ll never be on the water alone – unless you want to be.

Here are a few suggestions to help you kayak, canoe, SUP, and fish with friends and get involved in the paddling and water sports community:

Roanoke Area Paddlers

The Facebook-based group for Roanoke area kayakers, canoeists, SUPers to communicate is open to any topics that may be of interest to paddlers in the great Roanoke area. Discussions include events and meetups and gear chatter.

Roanoke Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited

The mission of Trout Unlimited is to conserve, protect, and restore North America’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds. The Roanoke Valley chapter participates in group events – including weekly Fly Tying Sessions at Ballast Point Brewing as well as other conservation and fishing events.

Creek Freaks

The Creek Freaks is a paddling club sponsored by the Franklin County Parks and Recreation. From arranging trips and gear swaps to expanding the availability of river/lake access facilities, Creek Freaks are all about water. Continued growth of the blueway network and paddling sports activities will depend on volunteers and partners who will provide critical support to work on particular projects or events.

Roanoke Kayaking Social Group

The Kayakers Social Group is a “beginners group” of 330+ paddlers of all skill levels. The club accepts and invites any new paddler, experienced or not. No one will be turned away due to lack of knowledge or kayaking. There’s no cost to join, and most events are free (except for ACA training events). The club organizer owns multiple boats and maintains a truck and kayak trailer to facilitate “river” kayak runs – flatwater, river, sea kayaking, touring, whitewater, and camping trips.

Float Fishermen of Virginia

The Roanoke Valley Chapter of the Float Fishermen of Virginia is a varied group of boaters that includes rafters, kayakers, and canoeists. The group floats the rivers, streams, and waterways of Virginia and works to preserve and protect these natural resources.