THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the secluded peace of Back Run Campsite #6, a paddle-in only primitive campsite along Virginia’s scenic Back Run River. Perfect for canoeists and kayakers seeking an authentic riverfront camping experience.
Discover the secluded peace of Back Run Campsite #6, a paddle-in only primitive campsite along Virginia’s scenic Back Run River. Perfect for canoeists and kayakers seeking an authentic riverfront camping experience.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Twin Rivers Outfitters · Natural Bridge Station, Virginia
Located near Natural Bridge Station, Virginia, Back Run Campsite #6 offers paddlers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the region's lush riverfront landscape. Situated along the scenic Back Run River, this primitive campsite is only accessible by water, making it a sought-after destination for those craving solitude and a genuine wilderness experience. Unlike crowded campgrounds, Back Run Campsite #6 provides a serene setting where campers can enjoy a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
This campsite features basic yet essential amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and a designated group access area, providing a comfortable base for overnight adventures. The surrounding environment is rich with mature hardwood forests and diverse wildlife, creating a peaceful backdrop for paddling, fishing, and wildlife observation. The placid waters offer ideal conditions for beginner and intermediate canoeists or kayakers, winding gently through the verdant shoreline.
Back Run Campsite #6 is a standout in the Natural Bridge Station area because of its exclusivity and natural charm. Its paddle-in only policy preserves the site's tranquility and ensures low-impact use, allowing travelers to experience the river’s quiet rhythm uninterrupted. Camping here lets visitors immerse themselves in East Coast river ecology, from the songs of local birds to the rustling of leaves in the wind.
The broader Giles County area holds noteworthy geological intrigue, resting near the imposing Appalachian Mountains with their folded rock formations and rich biodiversity. This locale’s calm waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding rugged terrain, offering a unique blend of water and mountain adventure. For history enthusiasts, nearby Natural Bridge is a natural limestone arch recognized since colonial times, adding cultural depth to your trip.
For travelers, the closest town is Natural Bridge Station, a quiet community providing a convenient launch point with essential services and local charm. Whether you’re seeking a solitary overnight paddle or a memorable group camping trip, Back Run Campsite #6 delivers an authentic Virginian river experience that highlights the region’s natural beauty and peaceful pace.
moderate.
1–3 days.
Basic to moderate fitness needed for paddling and carrying gear short distances; suitable for most recreational paddlers.
No, Back Run Campsite #6 is a paddle-in only site, so you must arrive by canoe or kayak via the river.
Yes, campfires are permitted within the provided fire rings, but visitors must follow fire safety protocols.
Yes, fishing is allowed along the Back Run River. Make sure to have any necessary state fishing permits.
No, campers should bring their own drinking water as there is no potable water source onsite.
Pets are generally allowed but must be kept under control and not disturb wildlife or other campers.
Cell service is limited or nonexistent due to the remote river location, so plan accordingly.
Natural Bridge Station is near the historic Natural Bridge, a 215-foot natural limestone arch known since colonial times and celebrated by figures like Thomas Jefferson.
The site’s paddle-in only access minimizes human impact, preserving local habitats and encouraging responsible outdoor ethics among visitors.
Twin Rivers Outfitters, located in Buchanan, Virginia, is a river outfitter specializing in canoe and kayak trips on the James River and surrounding waterways. The business offers a range of experiences from self-guided boat rentals to guided multi-day canoe camping trips and short day paddles. Trip options include full-day boat rentals ("Rent and Go") for experienced paddlers, multi-mile guided runs such as the 5-mile Springwood to Buchanan and 6-mile Buchanan to Arcadia trips, and extended 3-day/2-night itineraries from Buchanan to Glasgow and Glen Wilton to Buchanan. Overnight adventures feature private camping sites, supplied gear on selected multi-day trips, and options to end trips at vehicle take-out points. Several trips include safety orientations and all required equipment; the 5-mile and 10.5-mile options specifically note gear and safety briefings, and the 10.5-mile trip provides a scenic shuttle return. For campers, Gala River Front Campground on a working dairy farm offers drive-in and paddle-in access, picnic tables, and fire rings at Sites #8 and #12. Short overnight trips, such as the 2-day/1-night Buchanan to Alpine and Eagle Rock to Buchanan runs, combine fishing, class II rapids, and private camping. Trip lengths and difficulty range from beginner-friendly Class I riffles to Class II rapids, making options suitable for families, anglers, and experienced paddlers. Reservations and specific trip details, including gear lists, difficulty ratings, and take-out times, are available from the outfitter in Buchanan, Virginia.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters