South River at Ridgeview Park One of Waynesboro's best river parks. Located at the South end of Magnolia Avenue, in Waynesboro, this park has a hand boat launch, fishing pier that may facilitate handicapped access, and restrooms. At low water levels the river is good for wading here but there's not a lot of deep water nearby, good for kids, not great for swimming. This part of South River is regularly stocked with trout and the water is nice and cool all summer thanks to millions of gallons of fresh spring water that flow into the river upstream every day. There are tons of parking spaces in paved lots, restrooms, ball fields, playgrounds, tennis courts and a big ole' swimming pool. River access is free! Staying as Safe As Possible: 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. Fort 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.

12) Fish and boat with a partner.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for South River - Ridgeview Park and 8,000 other beaches.