Palatine

Palatine Park is a well-developed public access point located in downtown Fairmont along the east bank of the Monongahela River. The site features two concrete boat ramps designed for easy launching and retrieval, plus a dedicated kayak ramp—making it ideal for both motorized and paddle-craft users. Additional amenities include a universally accessible fishing pier, restroom facilities, picnic areas, and riverside walking paths. Access is free and open to the public.

The ramp provides entry to the Opekiska Pool, a scenic stretch of river that winds through the West Virginia mountains. This pool section is suitable for recreational boating, fishing, and paddling, offering a more controlled paddling environment compared to free-flowing river sections. Paddlers should note that the Monongahela is a barge-traffic waterway in this area, so awareness of commercial traffic is important. Palatine Park's convenient location and full amenities make it an excellent starting point for exploring this section of the river.