Mathews Blueways Trail
Explore
More than 100 miles of self-guided water trails with multiple launch sites for your non-motorized watercraft. Explore the calm, scenic shorelines of Mathews County Virginia.
South Bay Haven
White’s Creek
Haven Beach
Bethel Beach
Old Mill Landing
Winter Haven Harbor Landing
Horn Harbor
Doctors Creek
New Point Landing
Davis Creek Landing
Williams Wharf
East River Boatyard
Town Point Landing
Safety Tips
- Wear a life jacket while on the water. Paddle with a group or inform someone of your trip plan.
- Check weather reports and tides before launching.
- Know your route. Bring maps or nautical charts.
- Always bring water to avoid dehydration.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen when needed.
- Dress appropriately for weather and water conditions.
Notes of Caution
The waters surrounding Mathews County can be calm and pleasant. Some sections can also be potentially dangerous when wind speeds rise and waves build. Conditions in sheltered areas can easily mislead you as to conditions in the more open waters of the trails. Know your skill level in relation to your boat and the prevailing conditions.
The entire area of the Blueways Trail is tidal, especially in the Winter Harbor section. You can pick up a tide chart at the Visitor Center on Main Street in Mathews.
Upgrade Project
In 2025, the Mathews Outdoor Club launched a project to upgrade the existing Mathews Blueways Trail locations.
Information Kiosks
At all trail locations, MOC will purchase and install information kiosks that will include a trail map, historical data, area attractions, nature information, and important resources.
Covered Tables
Where space is available, a covered table will be added for visitor usage. MOC partners with Master Naturists in the area to identify ideal table spots that will not infringe on existing wildlife habitats. One location near a public boatramp & restaurant will be fitted with a kayak rack.
Promo & Marketing
Part of the Mathews Blueways Trail connects/ overlaps with the National Park Service’s Captain John Smith Chesapeake Natl Historic Trail, along the Piankatank River. MOC will partner local & regional tourism groups to promote wider usage.
Our partners
Mathews Outdoor Club is in close partnerships with area stakeholders for this upgrade project, including:
Mathews County Parks & Recreation Commission
Mathews Co Visitor Information Center
Middle Peninsula Master Naturalists
Mathews Historical Society
Projected Timeline
2025 Jan – submit grant applications
2025 Apr – purchase initial 10 kiosks & signage
2025 May – install 10 kiosks with signage
2025 Oct – purchase remaining 7 kiosks & kayak rack
2025 Nov – install kiosks with signage
2025 Nov – submit next round of grant applications
2026 Feb – purchase & install covered tables
2026 Mar – marketing campaign (photographer, website, brochures, social media)
Mathews Outdoor Club 