Rappahannock

Ran this section over the weekend and the lower level cutoff is definitely accurate. We didn't have to get out and drag except one time when we got right of the island at the first commercial campground and ended up on a sand bar. The level was at 3.45 when we left on Saturday and 3.35 when we got back on Sunday. We camped right where the two rivers converge and the paddling times were 7 hours on the first day and 3 hours on the second (we were actually paddling, not floating). At this level the rapids are way over-rated. There were some tricky class I for sure but I wouldn't rate anything class II at this level.

This is a pristine float with good water quality There is lots of wildlife including bald eagles, herons, turtles, and water snakes. This is a perfect float for overnight camping. There are many campsites along the river especially near the confluence. This float has several Class IIs and is a good one to hone boat steering skills. The water level was around 3.6 on the Remington gauge and this level was a little scrapy through the rapids. There are many stone locks, old mill dams, and canal walls to keep those who appreciate history intriqued. I would recommend this float to anyone who wants to get away from civilization even though much of it lurks a short drive away.

Looking downstream from Kelly's Ford with boat launch in foreground