The Dan River Basin Association (DRBA), in collaboration with Visit Rockingham County, NC (Visit RoCo, NC), is proud to announce the official grand re-opening of the Jacobs Creek Batteau Landing river access on the Dan River following significant renovations and restoration efforts.
The river access, located at 558 Planters Road, was forced to close after severe flooding in January 2024 washed out the riverbank below the original access point, making the site unsafe and unusable for paddlers, tubers, anglers, and other river enthusiasts. Over the past year, project partners have worked together to redesign and rebuild the access area, creating a more natural, sustainable, and resilient river entry and exit point that will better serve visitors for years to come.
The newly renovated access features an improved put-in and take-out area designed to work with the natural flow and dynamics of the Dan River while helping reduce future erosion and maintenance concerns. “These enhancements not only improve safety and accessibility for recreational users but also support long-term conservation and stewardship of one of the region’s most valuable natural resources,” stated Anna Wheeler, Recreation & Stewardship Manager, Dan River Basin Association.
In addition to the physical improvements, new educational and wayfinding signage has been installed throughout the site. The updated signage provides river users with valuable information, including their location along the Dan River, location of their next downstream take-out option, estimated paddling and tubing times, notable features along the route, river safety considerations, and nearby attractions and amenities available throughout Rockingham County after their river adventure.
“The reopening of Jacobs Creek Batteau Landing represents more than the restoration of a river access point—it reflects the power of partnership and our shared commitment to connecting people with the Dan River,” said Lindsay Pegg, Rockingham County Tourism Manager “This project ensures that residents and visitors alike can safely enjoy the river while learning more about the natural and cultural resources that make this region special.”
This phase of the project was made possible through the collaboration and support of numerous partners and contributors, including the Dan River Basin Association, Visit RoCo, NC, Piedmont Conservation Council, and North Carolina State Parks. Their collective investment in outdoor recreation, conservation, and community development helped bring this important public access point back to life.
Jacobs Creek Batteau Landing serves as a key access point along the Dan River Blueway, offering opportunities for paddling, tubing, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploration of the scenic river corridor that winds through Rockingham County and the greater Dan River Basin.
The grand re-opening of the river access marks an important milestone, but it is only the beginning of the next chapter for Jacobs Creek Batteau Landing. Additional park and trail improvements are currently in development, including a native wildflower meadow, a pollinator garden, and an interactive learning trail that will enhance the visitor experience while promoting environmental stewardship. As these exciting additions take shape, community members and visitors are encouraged to stay tuned for future announcements and opportunities to explore all that Jacobs Creek Batteau Landing has to offer.
For more information about river access locations, paddling opportunities, and outdoor recreation in Rockingham County, contact Lindsay Pegg at 336-342-8138 (www.visitroconc.com) or Anna Wheeler at 336-627-6270 (www.danriver.org).
About the Dan River Basin Association
The Dan River Basin Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and promoting the natural and cultural resources of the Dan River Basin through conservation, recreation, and environmental education.
About Visit RoCo, NC
Visit RoCo, NC promotes tourism and outdoor recreation throughout Rockingham County, North Carolina, connecting residents and visitors to the area’s unique attractions, communities, and natural assets.
