Widewater State Park’s boat ramp is now welcoming visitors following several months of closure due to a maintenance dredging project. The project, which focused on improving the ramp area, has restored access just in time for the summer and fall seasons.
Virginia State Park Potomac District Manager Ken Benson confirmed the project’s completion, expressing his satisfaction with the timely efforts.
“I am glad that we were able to dredge the boat ramp area in a timely manner so people can enjoy the park the rest of the season,” Benson explained in a press release.
Widewater State Park, which opened in 2018, experienced “steady growth” and development since its inception. The boat ramp, a component of the park’s amenities, was officially reopened on July 12, 2023.
In addition to the boat ramp, Widewater State Park introduced a new paddle craft launch on August 16, expanding its array of water-based amenities.
“The new kayak launch has been the focus for many educational programs and fun gatherings as water accessibility is a key amenity at the park. I am excited that the boat ramp is open again and people can access the park while enjoying water adventures,” Anderson noted.
According to its website, Widewater State Park offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including a visitor center, picnic shelters, playgrounds, restrooms, canoe-kayak launches, a motorboat launch, hiking trails, and paddle-in camping.
The park, located in northeastern Stafford County, Virginia, also showcases the region’s natural, historic, and recreational resources. Additionally, the visitor center is open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Picnic shelters and playgrounds are available to the public throughout these hours.
Another aspect of the park is water-based activities. Both the Aquia Creek and Potomac River car-top launches are accessible for guests with their own paddle craft. The motorboat launch is open from 5 a.m. until dusk, with an automatic gate allowing boaters to exit the park after dark. However, those with larger boats are advised to scout the drive to the park before their visit.
Widewater State Park is conveniently located about 40 miles south of Washington, D.C., and 20 miles northeast of Fredericksburg. The park is easily accessible from several major cities, with a drive time of about one hour from Northern Virginia, and four hours from Roanoke.
Featured image by Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
