Smith River Fest river race offers a new way to join Henry County’s outdoor weekend

Paddlers looking for a more active way to spend Smith River Fest weekend can register for Henry County’s river race on Saturday, Aug. 22.

The race will travel from the South Martinsville River Access to the Monogram Foods Smith River Sports Complex, where the festival is being held. The race starts at 1:30 p.m.; all competitors must attend a 1:15 p.m. safety briefing.

Henry County Parks and Recreation says kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards are welcome, but inflatables are not permitted. Shuttles will take racers and boats to the South Martinsville access point, while boats must be dropped off near the river and racers must register at the Henry County Parks and Recreation tent.

The program guide lists entry at $30 for a single and $40 for a tandem. Residents can call Henry County Parks and Recreation at 276-634-4640 for registration and race information. The wider Smith River Fest runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with free admission and parking.

Source: Henry County Parks and Recreation Summer 2026 Program Guide and Smith River Fest event page, checked Aug. 2, 2026. The accompanying image is original illustrative editorial art and does not depict the scheduled race.