Is this event suitable for children?

Yes, participants aged 10 and up may join, but they should be comfortable paddling and able to get in and out of canoes or kayaks on their own.

Do I need to bring my own canoe or kayak?

No, canoes and kayaks, along with paddles and PFDs, are provided by Twin River Outfitters for the event.

Is there a cost to participate?

No, River Clean Up Day is a free community event sponsored by Twin River Outfitters.

Wear old clothes and footwear suitable for water and mud, such as river shorts, a t-shirt, and closed or secure water shoes.

Are refreshments provided?

Complimentary drinks are offered to help keep you hydrated during the paddle.

Where is the meeting point?

The meet-up location is 640 Lowe Street in Buchanan, Virginia.

Join River Clean Up Day on the James River: Paddle, Protect & Explore Virginia's Waterways

Set against the rugged backdrop of the James River near Buchanan, Virginia, River Clean Up Day offers an empowering outdoor experience that blends adventure with environmental stewardship. This free, community-driven event invites outdoor enthusiasts and local paddlers to grab a canoe or kayak and spend four hours navigating a scenic stretch of the river while helping remove trash and debris. The James River is one of Virginia's most treasured waterways, steeped in natural beauty and history, and this clean-up event helps maintain its clarity and ecological health for future generations.

This outing is more than just a paddle. Participants will traverse calm sections of the river bordered by forested bluffs, sandstone outcrops, and patches of native wildflowers. The river’s diverse ecosystem includes species like great blue herons and river otters that thrive when the water is clean and healthy. The James River region itself holds centuries of history, once being a vital corridor for indigenous peoples and early settlers, adding a meaningful cultural layer to your paddle.

Organized by Twin River Outfitters, who are long-standing advocates for the James River’s preservation, this event is an excellent gateway to connect with the local outdoor community in Buchanan and contribute directly to conservation efforts. Twin River Outfitters provides all necessary gear, including canoes or kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices (PFDs), gloves, and trash bags. Complimentary drinks are offered to keep you refreshed on the water, making it easy and accessible for paddlers as young as ten.

While the event is free, participants should come prepared with old river clothes and footwear suitable for wet, muddy conditions, as you’ll be actively collecting trash and sometimes handling slippery riverbanks. This hands-on experience enriches your appreciation for the area’s ecological significance and highlights how small actions can lead to lasting improvements in local waterways.

Buchanan, the closest town, is a quiet gateway where visitors can find lodging and other amenities before or after the event. Whether you’re a local or visiting Virginia for outdoor activities, this clean-up day offers a meaningful way to engage with the James River beyond typical recreational paddling. It’s a memorable opportunity to enjoy fresh air, camaraderie, and the genuine satisfaction of giving back to one of the region’s most cherished natural resources.