Douthat State park now has self-serve automated kayak rental kiosks! Virginia State Parks is partnering with Whenever Watersports to expand access to on-the-water recreation, VSP announced in a press release on date Tuesday, August 11.
“This pilot program gives our visitors more opportunities to enjoy Virginia’s waterways on their own schedule,” said Dave Collett, acting assistant director of park operations. “By partnering with Whenever Watersports, we’re able to offer an easy, self-guided rental experience that can extend the paddling season and make spending time on the water more accessible for everyone.”
With Douthat State Park being less than a 40 minute drive from downtown Lexington, local residents can enjoy the convenience for a day on the water without the hassle of bringing their own kayaks.
Rental options vary by park, but kiosks may provide single kayaks, tandem kayaks or stand-up paddle boards. Rentals also include paddles and life jackets.
To rent a kayak or stand-up paddle board, visitors will need to download the Whenever Watersports app via the Apple Store or Google Play. They can find rental instructions posted at each kiosk, along with safety reminders and a QR code linking to additional information. The pilot program will be evaluated at the end of the season to assess usage, visitor feedback and growth opportunities.
This program is also designed to go “beyond the limits of traditional, staff-dependent concession operations” by offering rentals later into the fall and starting earlier in the spring. So before the season ends, head to Douthat or one of the other 9 state parks in this program, like Claytor Lake or Lake Anna and try out the new kayak kiosks.
