Can I reserve this campsite in advance?

Yes, Campsite #8 can be reserved ahead of time to guarantee your spot, especially during busy weekends.

Is the site accessible by car?

Yes, you can drive directly to the campground and park near your tent site.

Are campfires allowed?

Campfires are permitted only in designated fire rings at each campsite to prevent wildfires.

Is potable water available on-site?

No, campers should bring their own drinking water or purification methods.

Can I paddle my kayak or canoe to the campsite?

Absolutely—this spot is easily accessible via the James River, ideal for paddle-in camping.

Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash and contained within your campsite.

Discover Riverside Serenity at Arcadia Campground’s Tent-Only Campsite #8 in Buchanan, VA

Located along the gentle currents of the James River in Buchanan, Virginia, Arcadia Campground’s Campsite #8 offers a peaceful riverfront retreat that perfectly balances rustic charm with accessibility. This tent-only site, formerly known as Old Site #6, is part of a small enclave of ten designated campsites that line the water’s edge, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic connection to nature. Surrounded by mixed hardwood forests and vibrant riverine ecosystems, campers here can unwind to the sounds of rushing water and bird calls, away from the bustle of city life.

What sets this campground apart is its dual accessibility: whether you arrive by car or paddle your way in by kayak or canoe, Arcadia invites guests to experience the outdoor world in their own way. The James River is famous for its gentle rapids and scenic beauty, offering paddlers a remarkable journey through Virginia’s landscapes. The campground’s design emphasizes minimal impact, with well-maintained fire rings and picnic tables to foster community gatherings without compromising the serenity that draws many year-round.

The natural scene here combines rolling riverbanks with towering trees that turn vivid gold and crimson in the fall months. Wildlife sightings are common—expect white-tailed deer quietly passing through or the occasional heron fishing along the shore. This spot’s easy access to the river makes it a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts aiming to catch smallmouth bass or trout. Though modest in size, the campground’s intimate atmosphere allows for quiet contemplation, star-filled nights, and mornings marked by mist rising off the water.

Buchanan itself is a small town with a rich Appalachian heritage, which adds cultural depth to the outdoor experience. Founded in the late 19th century as a hub for river trade and railroads, the area still carries echoes of that history through local stories and roadside markers.

For adventurers, Arcadia Campground's Campsite #8 is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a portal to reconnect with Virginia’s river ecosystems, a base camp for paddling trips, and a peaceful sanctuary away from the urban rush. Its simplicity and pristine setting underscore why it remains a celebrated destination for paddlers, anglers, and hikers passing through the region. From the crackling campfire to the river’s soft lullaby, this site offers an uncomplicated yet deeply rewarding outdoor experience that veteran campers and newcomers will appreciate alike.