What we’re about
This group is for all age groups 18 and over. No pictures or any of that nonsense is necessary. If you have a kayak, or are going to get a kayak, or are just mildly interested in kayaking, this group is for you. We will meet at the water at the events, talk about boating, and then just get in the water and go. We will have different locations for our meets depending on what our members suggest. Very much a warm water event, our members should share their experiences and coach new kayak(ers?) Experience not necessary, kayak ownership not necessary, just join and talk in our discussions. Our discussions will revolve in topics such as : "latest deals found, new or used", "kayak techniques", what to bring "floating", or anything else about this wonderful water sport. Hopefully we will encourage some of our more "experienced" members to be helpers/guides/tutors. If you are an amateur kayak(ist), don't be afraid. If you have never been in one before, come and try one out. We will talk about boat safety, survival techniques, and various and sundry other topics under the sun. Put down that stupid "smart phone" and pick up a paddle and meet us at the water.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- GUPPY FLOAT! Carvins Cove Beginner Kayak/Canoe Float with Founder RickCarvins Cove Recreation Area, Roanoke, VA
Event Start: Sunday 8am 7/27/2025
Event Finish: Sunday 11am 7/27/2025Welcome to Roanoke Kayak Social Club (RKSC)!
We invite you to join us for a beginners day of paddling and adventure at Carvin's Cove Reservoir, a stunning natural gem nestled in the heart of Roanoke, Virginia. Beginner-Friendly Introduction with Rick. New to kayaking? No problem! We have you covered.
Borrowing a “FREE” kayak from Rick’s Kayak Dream Garage will be available this day OR you can rent directly with Carvin's Cove. When needed, RKSC will provide all the necessary equipment, including your kayaks, life jackets, paddles, and safety gear.
(1) IF you want to borrow a Kayak and equipment with us you MUST direct message Rick here.
(2) Fill out our form [https://forms.gle/uYMbneocFmsNafU66 ] to let us know IMMEDIATELY.🚨 **VIP Carvin’s Cove charges $8 per "vehicle" CASH ONLY– paid at entry 🚨
GREAT NEWS: For those of you who are experienced reading this- we have a surprise for you! We have an intermediate and up skill levels River float later today!
PLEASE JOIN US!!! We would really like to broaden the scope of what we share on the water with other paddlers.
⏳⚠️ IF YOU OR YOUR GUEST SAID YES- IT IS MANDATORY for our Safety Float Plan that you immediately go to the link and everyone fill out this form or you risk being removed from the event**: https://forms.gle/uYMbneocFmsNafU66. EVERY time you float with us you need to check the form and edit if need be. Use the same email and it will always be assessable to you. We are constantly updating. We are responsible and you REALLY need to be as well.
PLEASE make sure that your MeetUp notifications are turned on for our group. WE NEED TO COMMUNICATE EFFICIENTLY AND EFFECTIVELY.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable Clothing suitable for water activities
- Appropriate Shoes with closed toe is highly recommended or sneakers (no slip-ons or flip flops)
- Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses
- Snacks and LOTS OF WATER
- Change of Clothes and Towel
- Personal Kayaking Gear
- Positive Energy and Adventurous Spirit!
Donation Request: Our club thrives on the support of members like you. It costs Rick/RKSC Founder, approx. $250 per year to run this site. Donations are always welcomed and appreciated very much! A simple $5 donation once a year is perfect for those who USE our club. Your support, in whatever form it takes, makes our community vibrant and thriving. Together, we can continue creating wonderful memories and experiences.
⚠️ NOTE to all: Please RSVP for this event if you plan on attending. Group size is limited as per RKSC guidelines.
⚠️ There are NEVER day of event drop-ins. Unless you are an approved manager of RKSC.
- Explore the Upper James River 🛶 Buchanan to Arcadia: Intermediate+ FloatTwin River Outfitters, Buchanan, VA
Welcome to Roanoke Kayak Social Club (RKSC)!
Join us for an INTERMEDIATE and UP skill level kayaking adventure down the beautiful James River; from Buchanan to Arcadia. This event is perfect for paddlers who are looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Virginia's waterways. It is 6 miles of a wonderful section with 3 class II rapids. Overall, it is easy with decent water levels helping us flow along. This section is great for playing on the mild rapid sections, tuning in with practicing techniques and it is great for all to enjoy themselves on this beautiful section.
IF YOU SAID YES AND/OR PLAN TO BRING A GUEST- IT IS MANDATORY THAT YOU AND YOUR GUEST each fills out the form or you risk being removed from the event. https://forms.gle/uYMbneocFmsNafU66 EVERY time you float with us this is needed for you to check and edit. Use the same email and it will always be assessable to you. We are constantly updating. We are responsible NOW we need you to be as well.
TURN ON YOUR MEETUP NOTIFICATIONS for our group- WE NEED TO COMMUNICATE EFFICIENTLY AND EFFECTIVELY.
Meeting Time: 1:30 PM for check-in and arrangements for shuttling
Distance: 6 miles
Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours, depending on water conditions and paddling speed
What to Bring:
- You need your own boat for the float. This includes wearing safety gear, such as your life jacket at all times in the boat
- Comfortable Clothing suitable for water activities
- Appropriate Water Shoes/Sandals with closed toe is highly recommended or sneakers (no slip on or flip flops)
- Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses
- Snacks, Lunch and LOTS OF WATER
- Change of Clothes and Towel
- Positive Energy and Adventurous Spirit!
James River selection Map: https://upperjamesriverwatertrail.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/section7-8.pdf
