Is there electricity or running water at the cabin?

No, the River Rest Cabin is completely off-grid with no electricity or running water available.

How do I check in at the campground?

Guests receive a code to access a key box prior to arrival for self-check-in after 2 PM.

Can I bring a large RV or trailer?

No, the access under a low railroad bridge limits vehicles to 25 feet or shorter.

Are pets allowed at the cabin?

The listing does not specify pet policies; please contact the provider directly to confirm.

Is firewood included in the stay?

Firewood is available for purchase onsite but is not included with the rental.

What should I bring for linens and bedding?

You must bring your own sheets, blankets, or sleeping bags along with pillows, as these are not provided.

Off-Grid Riverside Camping at Gala Campground’s River Rest Cabin in Virginia

Tucked away on the tranquil banks of the James River in Gala, Virginia, River Rest Cabin invites adventurers seeking an unplugged escape in Botetourt County’s rugged outdoors. This primitive glamping site offers a rare opportunity to disconnect from modern life without sacrificing comfort amid nature’s soothing soundtrack of flowing river and rustling leaves. Located just a short 21-mile paddle upstream from Buchanan, the cabin serves as the perfect base for water enthusiasts and outdoor lovers looking to explore the region’s signature waterways and wooded landscapes.

River Rest Cabin is part of an 8-acre gated campground hidden behind a working farm that lends it a peaceful, authentic rural setting. With no electricity or running water, it’s a minimalist’s dream where the focus centers on the surrounding natural beauty. The cozy, one-room cabin sleeps up to four guests with one double bed and two twin beds, providing ample space for small groups or families. Although you must bring your own bedding and essentials like water and fire starters, the site provides a picnic table, folding chairs, and a fire ring, making it easy to cook outdoors and enjoy evenings under the stars.

Access is straightforward but intimate: guests enter via a road that passes beneath a low railroad bridge, limiting vehicle height and excluding large RVs, preserving the quiet atmosphere. The campground is unmanned, granting a sense of secluded freedom; guests receive a key box code before arrival for self-check-in. This setup is ideal for those who want to paddle in from the river or drive in with a smaller vehicle. A nearby port-a-potty ensures basic amenities while maintaining the off-grid charm.

The James River here is renowned for peaceful paddling and fishing, with easy riverbank access mere steps from the cabin. This makes the site a standout destination for paddlers hoping to break up a journey or simply relax in a waterside hideaway. Botetourt County’s rolling hills, vibrant wildlife, and historic farms surrounding Gala Campground enrich the outdoor experience and connect visitors to Virginia’s rural heritage.

Whether you’re planning a weekend respite, a fishing getaway, or a quiet location to contemplate the river’s flow, River Rest Cabin offers a unique chance to slow down and immerse in the local landscape on its own terms. For travelers seeking simplicity coupled with riverside charm, this rustic retreat is a distinct gem worth booking in advance for a genuine Virginia adventure.