CLENDENIN, W.Va. — As Memorial Day launches summer activities a new boat ramp on the Elk River in Clendenin is expected to be another big draw to the northern end of Kanawha County.
The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources constructed the ramp in close consultation with the leaders of the town and the town will provide security and maintenance of the river access.
“We appreciate the Town of Clendenin for their commitment to maintaining this site and ensuring it benefits anglers, boaters and outdoor enthusiasts while also supporting tourism and local businesses for years to come,” said DNR Director Brett McMillion during a recent ribbon cutting on the new access.
It’s an $800,000 construction project and was designed by E.L. Robinson Engineering and built by J.F. Allen Company.
“Clendenin is just a good hub for kayaking,” said DNR District Fisheries Biologist Jeff Hansbarger. “I’ve spoken with Dave Knight of Knight Insurance and Mayor Kay Summers who were instrumental in getting those sites and maintaining them, that’s a huge help to us.”
The new ramp, located at Virginia Avenue, is part of the WVDNR’s ongoing commitment to improving outdoor recreation infrastructure across the state. It is one of six newly completed public access points on the lower Elk River and creates more opportunities for anglers and paddlers to customize their trips and experience the river’s scenic beauty.