Barnum Whitewater Area

The North Branch of the Potomac is a whitewater rafting river for the entire family.  Whitewater releases from Jennings Randolph Lake tumble down a continuous gradient of sand stone ledges and cobbles providing Class I, II and III rapids in close succession and are comprised of waves and rollers up to six feet high.  Short spells of calm water permit bailing, relaxation and swimming.  Trip length is 7 miles.  The launching area is located in the Barnum Whitewater Area (BWA).  Parking and restroom facilities are available at the launch site.  The Mineral County Parks & Recreation Commission has instituted a $5.00 per person fee for all individuals entering BWA on release dates.

Whitewater releases from Jennings Randolph Lake are scheduled in April and May.  Water flows will reach whitewater levels by 10:00 a.m.  Each release will be six hours in length, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Flow rates will vary from a minimum of 850 CFS to a maximum of 1000 CFS during a whitewater release.  All releases dependent on an adequate supply of water in Jennings Randolph Lake.

Camping facilities are available at Jennings Randolph Lake.  In addition, accommodations may be found at several local motels or bed and breakfast inns.


North Branch Whitewater Release 2024 Dates 

The 2024 whitewater release schedule for Jennings Randolph Lake has been set for the following weekends:

  • April 6-7
  • April 20-21
  • May 4-5
  • May 18-19