The Charleston river access point is located at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center. This location is unique for two reasons. First, a kayak launch ramp allows for easier ingress into the river. Kayakers can load their craft into a dry chute, sit down in their kayak and then gently launch themselves onto the water. Leaving the water is as simple as returning to the launch and pulling the boat back onto the chute. Second, the river is gentler and less swift, allowing kayakers to paddle upstream. Kayakers can enter and exit the river from this launch point, which is often difficult in the swift water found at upstream launch points.
The launch is free for public use daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., and can accommodate single and tandem kayaks, paddleboards and most canoes. Free parking is available at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center’s boat dock.
Directions to Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center River Access Point
From the East:
From I-64 or I-77, take the Washington Street and Civic Center Drive exit (Exit 58C)
Continue straight on Pennsylvania Avenue
Turn Left on to Virginia Street
Merge to the far left lane immediately
Turn Left on to Civic Center Drive
Turn Left on Quarrier Street
The Center Parking Building entrance is on the immediate right
From the West:
Take the Virginia Street exit (Exit 58B) on I-64
Stay to the right as you exit, this will put you on Virginia Street
Merge to the far left lane immediately
Turn Left on to Civic Center Drive
Turn Left on Quarrier Street
The Center Parking Building entrance is on the immediate right