Two Nights Under Stars, One Wild River Day: A Weekend Paddle From Buchanan to Back Run Creek
Customers car camp the night before and after the 16 mile river trip.
You wake to a breath of cool air threaded with river sound—the constant, low rush that has shaped the valley for millennia. Tents line a grassy bend where the campground steps down to the bank. Pack lids click. Coffee steam rises, and by 9AM a van appears to collect the group: four strangers who will share a day on the water and two nights under the same sky. By late morning, you’ll push off in a rented boat, paddles in sync, and let sixteen miles of river decide your pace.
Trail Wisdom
Start the night before
Car-camp at the campground the night prior to guarantee the 9AM pickup and get an early river start.
Wear secure footwear
Use sandals with straps or closed neoprene shoes—the river bottom is rocky and shoes that come off in rapids are a safety risk.
Hydrate smart
Bring a refillable water bottle in addition to the provided 5-gallon jugs and drink steadily throughout the day.
Pack a small dry bag
Keep sunscreen, phone, snacks, and a light insulating layer protected from spray and the occasional tumble.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning bank hikes near the campground for birdwatching
- •A quiet eddy above a long riffle ideal for a lunch stop and a short swim
Wildlife
Great blue heron, White-tailed deer
Conservation Note
Respect private land access by staying on designated campsites, packing out waste, and avoiding shoreline disturbance—these agreements rely on visitor stewardship.
The river corridors here supported early mills and small river towns; private landowners now partner with outfitters to preserve access for paddle camping.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Higher flows, Wildflower banks
Challenges: Cold mornings, Variable river levels
Spring brings livelier water and green banks—expect brisk mornings and possibly faster currents after rains.
summer
Best for: Warm nights, Long daylight, Easy water sections
Challenges: Hot afternoons, Storm cells, Biting bugs
Summer offers the warmest paddling conditions but watch afternoon storms and pack bug protection.
fall
Best for: Foliage, Crisp air, Lower flows
Challenges: Cooler water, Shorter days
Fall is scenic and comfortable; cooler water means a drysuit isn’t required, but layers are essential.
winter
Best for: Off-season solitude
Challenges: Very cold water, Limited access
Winter trips are rare—expect cold water risks and reduced services; only for experienced paddlers prepared for frigid conditions.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Closed-toe water shoesEssential
Protect feet on rocky riverbeds and while hauling boats at put-in and take-out.
Light insulating layer (fleece or synthetic)Essential
Keeps you warm at camp and during cool mornings on the water.
Dry bag (personal)Essential
Protects electronics, snacks, and a change of clothes from spray and the occasional capsize.
Sunscreen and polarized sunglassesEssential
Sun protection and polarized lenses reduce glare and improve river visibility.
Common Questions
How long is the river portion of the trip?
The paddle covers 16 river miles and typically takes 6–7 hours at a normal pace.
What is included in the price?
Boat, paddles, life jackets, safety orientation, river maps, dry bags, 5-gallon water jugs, access to private camping land, and required shuttles are included.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes. All customers must know how to swim and participants must be at least 6 years old.
When is pickup from the campground?
Pickup is at 9AM only—plan to be ready for the shuttle then to complete the full-day paddle schedule.
Can I bring my dog?
Check with the operator ahead of booking; dogs may be allowed on-site but policies vary and river travel can be stressful for animals.
What if weather raises river levels?
The operator monitors conditions and may reschedule or alter routes for safety; high-water situations can increase difficulty beyond class I–II.
What to Pack
Waterproof daypack, layered clothing (for changing temps), secure water shoes, sunscreen—these items cover comfort, safety, and protection from elements.
Did You Know
The Ridge-and-Valley landscape here was formed during the Alleghanian orogeny nearly 300 million years ago, giving the region its long folded ridges and narrow valleys.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive the night before to secure pickup; bring insect repellent; keep a printed map or offline route because service can be spotty; confirm the 9AM shuttle time with the operator.
Local Flavor
After you dry off, head into Buchanan for a casual riverside picnic or drive to Roanoke (~45–60 minutes) for a broader selection of breweries and farm-to-table options; local diners and country stores in the valley often serve hearty plates perfect after a day on the water.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional (about 45–60 minutes). Driving distance: campground is a short local drive from Buchanan. Cell service: patchy along river; expect limited reception. Permits/passes: Private land access included with booking; confirm shuttle pickup details and minimum group size.
Sustainability Note
This trip uses private land access—pack out everything, minimize shoreline campfire impacts, and follow Leave No Trace to preserve access for future paddlers.