Kayak/Paddle Board and Hike at Belle Isle State Park

Belle Isle has seven miles of shoreline on the Northern Neck's Rappahannock River and provides access to Mulberry and Deep creeks. The park lets visitors explore a wide variety of tidal wetlands interspersed with farmland and upland forests. It has a campground, three picnic shelters, hiking, biking and bridle trails, and motor boat and car-top launches. Belle Isle also offers overnight lodging at Bel Air and the Bel Air Guest House. Bicycle, canoe and kayak rentals are available seasonally. Guests also enjoy the park's universal access playground, boardwalk and fishing pier, and educational programs.

The diverse habitats found in the park provide homes to many predator birds, such as blue herons, osprey, hawks and bald eagles. White-tailed deer, turkeys, groundhogs, rabbits, squirrels, moles, reptiles and amphibians are also common.

My plan is to hike for a couple of hours, set up the tent site, and then go out on the water for a couple of hours before dinner. We'll do the same on the second day before heading home. You have the option of only kayaking/paddle boarding, hiking, or doing both.

Disclaimer: GetHiking Charlottesville Organizers are not professional guides. Expect the same risks and take the same precautions you would take if you were boating or hiking alone. With your RSVP, you agree with this disclaimer.

Weather: TBD

Notes:
1. Cost - $5 parking and admission. For camping reservation and more information, please go to https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/belle-isle.
2. Mandatory Equipment: PFD (personal flotation device) and whistle.
3. Suggested packing list:
a. Kayak or paddle board with paddle.
b. Swimsuit, towel, change of clothes/footwear, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, lunch/water, waterproof bag, water shoes/sandals.
c. Hiking and camping gear. Food for 1 dinner, breakfast, and lunch.
4. A cancellation notice will be posted a few days before the event.

Rules on the water:

1. No alcohol or glass bottle/container;
2. Wear life jacket;
3. Assign buddy system;
4. Maintain safe distances: no greater than 25 ft between buddies and 50 ft between groups);
5. Use of whistle:
   a. 1 long blast- stop in place;
   b. 2 short blasts- all clear, continue;
   c. 3 short blasts- emergency (stop, assess, assist).
6. Check experience/swim level;
7. Check for equipment: PFD, whistle, water.