South River at Constitution Park (Pavilion)

South River at Constitution Park Pavilion This is a very popular access for fly-fishermen and is just across West Main Street from Constitution Park in Waynesboro, Va. There is a pavilion, as the name would indicate, and then a pretty large grassy knoll overlooking the river and two stairwells down to the river. You'll need to navigate a moderately sloped vegetated hill unless you find the stairs. Lots of people choose to use the area right under or by the Main Street Bridge to get into the river itself. The river is riffly here with some natural and man-made rock structures breaking the current flow at low and moderate water levels. Park in one of the abundant parking spots by the pavilion. River recreation carries inherent risk of injury, drowning or death. Shenandoah Riverkeeper always suggests people use one of the local river outfitters for information on water levels and how to safely use the river. For this area try South River Fly Shop http://southriverflyshop.com for fishing and Rockfish Gap Outfitters http://www.rockfishgapoutfitters.com for boating and outdoors. Regardless, beginners, experienced boaters or those who would like to venture out on their own should heed some general guidelines including but not limited to: 1) Bring much more water than you think you'll need 2) Wear your life preserver and avoid the river when it's high or fast flowing from recent rain 3) Wear closed toed secure river shoes or tennis shoes at all times 4) Don't drink water from the river 5) Bring wet weather gear even on the hottest days (long summer thunderstorms can give you hypothermia) 6) If you have an open cut or scrape keep it out of the river 7) If you get a cut or scrape from the river, clean it out very very thoroughly right away and make sure no debris/algae or dirt remains in the cut. Disinfect. Keep Dry. River infections are extremely serious. If you suspect infection is developing in a cut after having contact with the river then seek medical attention immediately - emergency care if your doctor is unavailable. Signs of river infection are increasing redness or prolonged soreness, increasing swelling, wound odor and/or fever. 8) In cool weather dress in warm layers. Never wear cotton against your skin and this includes t-shirts and jeans. 9) Be aware of where you are in the river and become familiar with what your take-out point looks like if you're doing a float so you don't miss it and get stranded after dark. 10) Avoid wild animals 11) If thunderstorms develop you should have a plan which usually includes finding a place that reduces your chance of being struck by lightning and/or being hit by a falling branch or tree in high winds.