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Find solitude by the New River at Arcadia Campground’s tent-only sites in Buchanan, Virginia. Perfect for paddlers and nature lovers seeking quiet riverside camping away from RV traffic.
Find solitude by the New River at Arcadia Campground’s tent-only sites in Buchanan, Virginia. Perfect for paddlers and nature lovers seeking quiet riverside camping away from RV traffic.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Twin Rivers Outfitters · Buchanan, Virginia
Arcadia Campground in Buchanan, Virginia offers a genuine riverside camping experience unlike typical crowded campgrounds. Situated along the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America, this spot combines easy access with a quiet, nature-focused vibe. Campsite #3, formerly known as Old Campsite #2, is one of ten tent-only sites available, catering exclusively to those who seek simplicity and immersion in nature without the interference of RVs or trailers. The campground’s drive-in and paddle-in access opens opportunities for a diverse range of outdoor enthusiasts, from kayakers and canoeists to solo hikers eager for a peaceful retreat. Each campsite includes amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, inviting visitors to enjoy campfire dinners and riverside gatherings beneath open skies.
Buchanan itself is a small river town with a friendly atmosphere, offering a perfect base to explore the surrounding Appalachian foothills. The New River is famous for its clear waters, winding course, and geological history that predates the Appalachian Mountains. This ancient river flows through steep gorges lined with sycamores, oaks, and river birches, creating a relaxing setting for camping and paddling. The unique location of Arcadia Campground allows visitors to connect closely with the natural rhythms of the river, with opportunities for fishing, wildlife watching, and birding right from the campfire’s glow.
What sets Arcadia apart in the crowded Mid-Atlantic outdoor scene is its dedication to tent-only camping combined with river access that feels remote yet approachable. Many campers arrive by canoe or kayak—paddling down the river, then stepping onto soft earth and setting up camp steps from the water’s edge. This combination offers a true wilderness adventure within driving distance of Charlottesville or Roanoke. Whether you’re looking to escape for a weekend of stargazing or use this as a base to explore the New River Trail State Park, this campground offers unmatched tranquility.
The lack of RVs creates a quieter environment, while local efforts maintain this natural riverside habitat free from overdevelopment. Visitors often remark on the peaceful nights punctuated only by the sounds of water and the forest around them. The New River, with its stable flow even during dry seasons, ensures consistent paddling and fishing spots nearby.
Camping at Arcadia Campground provides a raw, authentic outdoor experience centered on the pleasures of fire, water, stars, and solitude. It’s an ideal stop for adventurers who cherish the river as much as the forest and want a genuine campout that blends accessibility with wilderness spirit, making this one of Virginia’s standout land-adventure destinations.
moderate.
overnight to multi-day.
Moderate fitness recommended to carry camping gear and possibly paddle-in; reasonable hiking ability for site access.
Yes, Arcadia Campground allows drive-in access to Campsite #3, making it easy to unload your gear.
Yes, each campsite includes a fire ring for campfires following safety guidelines.
No, Arcadia strictly offers tent-only camping to maintain a quiet, natural atmosphere.
Expect to see deer, squirrels, various songbirds, and if lucky, river otters near the water.
Cell signal is spotty, so prepare for limited coverage to fully enjoy the natural setting.
Buchanan is just a few miles away, providing basic groceries and services for campers.
The New River has been central to regional trade and settlement for centuries, with Buchanan founded as a river port in the 18th century.
Arcadia Campground works closely with local groups to preserve the river ecosystem and minimize campsite impact through no-RV policies and visitor education.
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