Explore 22 miles of the Upper James River on a self-guided canoe trip from Eagle Rock to Buchanan. Enjoy two nights camping at Horseshoe Bend Campground amid Virginia’s rugged Blue Ridge scenery.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 days (13.5 miles day 1, 8.5 miles day 2)
Fitness Level
Suitable for those with moderate fitness; comfortable canoeing and some river navigation experience helpful.
Wildlife
History
The Upper James River area was historically a key route for early Native American tribes and later colonial settlers.
Conservation
The outfitter emphasizes Leave No Trace principles to protect the James River’s pristine water quality and surrounding habitats.
Twin Rivers Outfitters
Explore 22 miles of the Upper James River on a self-guided canoe trip from Eagle Rock to Buchanan. Enjoy two nights camping at Horseshoe Bend Campground amid Virginia’s rugged Blue Ridge scenery.
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.
Location
Buchanan, VA
On the James River
Tours Offered
11 trips
Day and multi-day options
Trip Lengths
Half-day to 3-day
Day, overnight, multi-day trips
Campground Sites
Sites #8 & #12
Drive-in and paddle-in access
Book boat rentals, half-day paddles, or multi-day canoe camping from Buchanan, VA — check availability and trip details today.
Start Early in the Day
Begin your paddling soon after your safety orientation to make the most of daylight hours and easier river conditions.
Pre-Set Camp at Horseshoe Bend
Campers can leave gear at Horseshoe Bend overnight to lighten your load for day two’s paddle to Buchanan.
Check River Conditions
Water levels can fluctuate; check recent reports to ensure safe paddling and avoid challenging rapids.
Bring Waterproof Storage
Use provided dry bags plus your own waterproof containers to keep electronics and valuables safe from moisture.
PFD (Life Jacket)
Required for safety during all paddling sections of the trip.
Dry Bags
Keeps your gear dry from splashes and unexpected water exposure.
Camping Gear
Bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and cooking supplies for overnight stays.
Water Shoes
Helpful for safely walking rocky riverbanks and shallow shorelines.
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