Lexington, Virginia offers some of the most diverse and exciting water recreation in the state. Whether you’re an avid angler seeking trophy bass, a thrill-seeking kayaker ready to tackle whitewater rapids, or a couple looking for a relaxing afternoon of tubing, the rivers and lakes surrounding this historic town provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
The Maury River: A Paddler’s and Angler’s Paradise
The 42-mile Maury River stands as the crown jewel of water activities in Lexington, VA, offering something for every skill level and interest. This remarkable waterway flows entirely within Rockbridge County, beginning in the dramatic Goshen Pass and eventually joining the James River in Glasgow.
Fishing Near Lexington on the Maury
The Maury River’s diverse ecosystem makes fishing in Virginia an exceptional experience here. Near Goshen Pass, the river’s cold headwaters are stocked with brown and rainbow trout from October through May, while native brook trout also inhabit these pristine waters. Fly anglers find the wild headwaters particularly challenging and rewarding, with the crystal-clear water demanding stealth and precision.
As the river flows downstream and warms, the character changes entirely. The middle and lower sections become home to feisty smallmouth bass and surprisingly abundant carp populations. For an accessible fishing experience, start at Jordan’s Point in Lexington and walk along the scenic Chessie Trail, which hugs the riverbank for seven miles between East Lexington and Buena Vista. This historic rail-trail, managed by Virginia Military Institute, follows portions of the old Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad bed and offers abundant natural beauty alongside excellent fishing access. Year-round, anglers can also target sunfish and rock bass throughout the river system.
Kayaking Near Lexington: From Gentle Floats to Wild Whitewater
The Maury River offers kayaking experiences ranging from peaceful family floats to Virginia’s most popular whitewater run. The eight-mile stretch from Jordan’s Point to Buena Vista provides a relaxing paddle with numerous Class I rapids. It is perfect for beginners or those seeking a leisurely day on the water.
For intermediate paddlers, the 12-mile run from Glen Maury Park in Buena Vista to Glasgow steps up the excitement with numerous Class II rapids. More experienced kayakers can tackle the remote 14-mile section from Rockbridge Baths to Jordan’s Point, which features challenging Class II-III rapids and can be divided into two separate trips.
However, the most renowned section is undoubtedly Goshen Pass. This six-mile gorge contains some of the best whitewater in Virginia, featuring Class II and III rapids along with two notorious Class IV drops: Devil’s Kitchen and Corner Rapid. Depending on water flow, rapids here can reach technical and treacherous Class VI difficulty. Devil’s Kitchen alone contains a series of Class IV, V, and VI rapids concentrated within just a few hundred meters, drawing expert whitewater enthusiasts from across the region. Previous whitewater experience is strongly encouraged for anyone attempting this thrilling run.
Lake Robertson: A Mountain Gem
For those seeking calmer waters, Lake Robertson offers a completely different experience. This 31-acre impoundment, constructed in 1971 and named for sportsman Senator A. Willis Robertson, sits tucked in the mountainous terrain of western Rockbridge County. The lake serves as the centerpiece of a 581-acre tract, with approximately 75 acres leased to Rockbridge County for park and recreation facilities.
Fishing in Virginia’s Clearest Waters
Lake Robertson’s crystal-clear water, with an average depth of 18 feet, presents unique challenges and rewards for anglers. The exceptional clarity allows sunlight to penetrate deeply, encouraging aquatic vegetation growth including curleyleaf pondweed and elodea. While sterile grass carp help control these water weeds, the lake’s transparency means trophy largemouth bass, while frequently spotted, are particularly wary of approaching anglers.
Success on Lake Robertson comes to those who do their homework. The lake bottom contains old roadbeds, house foundations, and natural springs that concentrate fish populations. Anglers who study the lake’s structure and understand these hidden features will find themselves consistently rewarded. Note that gasoline motors and swimming are prohibited, and a valid fishing license is required. Boat concessions are available at reasonable rates: $5 for the first hour and $3 for each additional hour.
The James River: Tubing and More
No discussion of water activities in Lexington, VA would be complete without mentioning the James River. While paddlers can enjoy float trips or navigate Class I-II rapids (with one Class III rapid), the James is perhaps best known for an activity that epitomizes summer fun: tubing.
Tubing the James River
Tubing the James River offers pure relaxation as the steady downriver current effortlessly carries you along. Unlike many flatwater tubing experiences, the James provides consistent flow that keeps your journey moving while allowing you to sit back and enjoy Blue Ridge Mountain views. Mid-summer trips typically last one to one-and-a-half hours, and many groups make a day of it by tubing once, enjoying lunch at one of Lexington’s excellent restaurants, and then returning for a second run. Tubes can be rented from local outfitters like Twin River Outfitters, which has safely operated since 1978 and maintains the largest fleet of river tubes in the area. Twin Rivers takes care of all of the logistics including life jackets, a safety orientation, and a shuttle ride to get upriver.
Planning Your Water Adventure
Before heading out, remember that the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources requires an Access Permit for Wildlife Management Areas and public fishing lakes for visitors age 17 and older, unless you possess a valid Virginia hunting or fishing license. Daily permits cost $4, while annual permits are $23.
For guided experiences, consider Blue Ridge Fishing Adventures, which offers both float trips and wading excursions with access to private smallmouth bass waters and permits for national forest lands. John Roberts Fly Fishing brings over 60 years of local expertise, offering trips for everyone from complete beginners to seasoned pros.
Whether you’re seeking the adrenaline rush of Goshen Pass whitewater, the challenge of trophy bass on Lake Robertson, or the simple pleasure of tubing the James River with family, the waters around Lexington provide unforgettable experiences. At the end of the day, you can toast your accomplishment with a local beer, wine, or cider, then rest comfortably in your room at the Inn at Brierley Hill. Pack your gear, grab your paddle or fishing rod, and discover why fishing and kayaking near Lexington draw outdoor enthusiasts from across Virginia and beyond.