Northern Virginia is a great location for kayaking of all kinds.
The Potomac River has many great locations to put in for flat water kayaking. The lower river itself also has marshes, creeks, estuaries and bays for exploring and the wildlife is abundant. Check out Mason Neck State Park or Pohick Bay Regional Park which have boat launch areas for those who can't just toss a kayak over their shoulder and drop in anywhere.
The upper reaches of the Potomac River have whitewater rapids for the more adventurous and well trained kayaker. Bull Run River and the Occoquan River have many scenic areas and the experience can depend on the amount of recent rainfall. I have kayaked most of the creeks in Northern Virginia but mostly after heavy rain periods to take advantage of the higher water flows.
In periods without rain it is best to stick to the lower reaches of Bull Run River unless you are willing and able to get out and drag the kayak past some short areas that are too shallow to navigate. After an inch or more of rain most of these areas are wet enough to allow easy downriver passage.
For advice on kayaking in Northern Virginia feel free to email me at johntmosher2@gmail.com

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