James River Adventures with Twin Rivers Outfitters in Buchanan - Roanoke, VA

James River Adventures with Twin Rivers Outfitters in Buchanan

Roanoke, VAmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

Half-day to 5 days

Fitness Level

Suitable for individuals in good health with basic paddling endurance, comfortable carrying gear for multi-day trips.

Overview

Paddle through Virginia’s James River with Twin Rivers Outfitters, offering multi-day trips and off-grid glamping along scenic campgrounds. Perfect for paddlers of all skill levels seeking immersive river adventures near Buchanan.

Details

Located in Buchanan, Virginia, Twin Rivers Outfitters offers some of the most comprehensive outdoor water adventures along the James River corridor. This region, where forested ridges dip into limestone bluffs and the river carves a lively path through southwestern Virginia, creates an authentic backdrop for paddling, camping, and glamping. Twin Rivers Outfitters stands out by combining multi-day, guided river trips with comfortable off-grid lodging options like the River Rest Cabin and Cabin on the James at Gala Campground.

The outfitter’s range of trips caters to both casual paddlers and seasoned adventurers. Options include one-day canoe or kayak excursions stretching 5 to 10 miles, such as Horseshoe Bend to Buchanan or Buchanan to Alpine, plus multi-day journeys that cover 3 to 5 nights between towns like Glen Wilton, Buchanan, and Glasgow. For those seeking to extend their trip into the backcountry, campsites at Gala, Arcadia, Back Run, and Horseshoe Bend Campgrounds provide rustic settings with added touches of glamping comfort. Their site-specific accommodations—numbered sites and cabins—offer a blend of proximity to the river and a wilderness experience.

Beyond the paddle, experiences like river tubing, nighttime glow paddles, and community events such as river clean-up days and fun races emphasize the outfitter’s commitment to the local outdoors culture. The James River here is shaped by karst topography, notable for caves and springs, and habitat for diverse species including river otters and herons. Twin Rivers Outfitters anchors this stretch of the James as a standout destination, inviting visitors to engage deeply with the natural flow of river water and woodlands while supporting sustainable recreation.

Whether gearing up for a two-day canoe jaunt or seeking an off-grid cabin retreat, Twin Rivers Outfitters delivers a distinct blend of wilderness adventure and Southern Appalachian riverside charm that consistently draws outdoor enthusiasts to this part of Virginia.

Adventure Tips

Plan Water Levels Before You Paddle

Check James River flow rates and weather forecasts to ensure safe conditions and avoid strong currents or low water sections.

Reserve Campsites in Advance

Popular spots like Gala and Arcadia Campgrounds fill up quickly during peak season—book early to secure your preferred glamping cabin or tent site.

Pack for Variable Weather

Bring quick-dry layers and waterproof gear as river temperatures can fluctuate, especially in spring and fall.

Practice Leave No Trace

Respect riverside campsites and trails by carrying out all trash and minimizing your footprint during multi-day trips.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Back Run Creek Campground for quiet riverside camping
  • Miller Creek Walk-In Site at Gala Campground for secluded paddler access

Wildlife

  • River otters
  • Great blue herons

History

The James River has a rich history as a transportation route dating back to indigenous settlements and early colonial trade in Virginia.

Conservation

Twin Rivers Outfitters promotes leave-no-trace principles and actively participates in river clean-up efforts to preserve the delicate river ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon)
Overcast days for softer light
Twilight during glow paddles

Best Viewpoints

  • James River bluffs near Eagle Rock
  • Mill Creek Walk-In Glamping site waterfront
  • Back Run Creek shoreline

What to Photograph

Flowing river landscapes
Wildlife along the banks
Rustic glamping cabins and tents

Recommended Gear

PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

Essential

A must-have for safety on all watercraft trips on the James River.

Waterproof dry bags

Essential

Keep clothing and electronics dry during paddling and camping.

Multi-layer clothing

Essential

Allows quick adaptation to temperature changes and windy river conditions.

spring|fall|winter specific

Camping gear with glamping option

Basic tenting is available, but glamping tents and cabins add creature comforts for longer stays.

summer|fall|spring specific