Windsurfing near Mason Neck
- Leesylvania State Park (7 km)
- Marshall Hall (10 km)
- Kims Beach (14 km)
- Collingwood (17 km)
- Belle Haven (20 km)
Mason Neck State Park, Lorton VA: Waist to chest-deep water and side-on conditions when winds are southwest clockwise through northwest equating to an excellent location for beginners. Safe cold weather location. The location is best when the wind has a W in it -- SSW through NNW -- although N and even NNE is manageable as well (although very gusty due to hills to the N).
Best to sail a NW wind to the left of the launch towards the point. The wind is strong and cleaner due to the long wind fetch. In contrast, sailing to the right is fluky due to the reduced wind fetch. Strong westerlies in the spring and fall can provide some epic sessions.
There is a small sandy launch area (called the "cartop boat launch") just before the ranger station: unload your gear and park back up at the main lot. Bottom is muddy, so wear booties. Weed field the first 50 feet of the shore during the summer. Weed fin definitely recommended. Water will get blow out during low tide and/or big wind, so be prepared for a bit of a slog to fin depth. But often well worth it...
