Can I drive my car directly to Campsite #3?

Yes, Arcadia Campground allows drive-in access to Campsite #3, making it easy to unload your gear.

Are campfires allowed at this site?

Yes, each campsite includes a fire ring for campfires following safety guidelines.

Is this site suitable for RVs or trailers?

No, Arcadia strictly offers tent-only camping to maintain a quiet, natural atmosphere.

What wildlife might I encounter here?

Expect to see deer, squirrels, various songbirds, and if lucky, river otters near the water.

Is there cell phone reception at the campground?

Cell signal is spotty, so prepare for limited coverage to fully enjoy the natural setting.

How far is the nearest town for supplies?

Buchanan is just a few miles away, providing basic groceries and services for campers.

Discover Serene Riverfront Camping at Arcadia Campground in Buchanan, VA

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.