Rivanna River Adventures & Riversong Saunas in Charlottesville
Explore Rivanna River's tubing and kayaking adventures paired with a rustic sauna experience in Charlottesville. Experience Virginia's natural beauty on water and unwind riverside.
Charlottesville, Virginia
•easy
Rivanna River Adventures & Riversong Saunas in Charlottesville
easy
Difficulty
2–4 hours
Duration
Suitable for people with basic fitness; light to moderate paddling or floating effort.
Fitness Level
About This Experience
Explore Rivanna River's tubing and kayaking adventures paired with a rustic sauna experience in Charlottesville. Experience Virginia's natural beauty on water and unwind riverside.
Located in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Rivanna River Company & Riversong Saunas offers a unique blend of outdoor water-based recreation and rustic wellness experiences. This private outdoor adventure destination is centered around the scenic Rivanna River, a sought-after spot for tubing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding amid Virginia’s lush river landscapes. Guests can enjoy crystal-clear water, gentle currents, and shaded riverbanks lined with native trees, creating a refreshing retreat ideal for both relaxation and light exercise.
The Rivanna River Company stands out in the Charlottesville outdoor scene by providing not only watercraft rentals but also guided shuttle service which adds convenience and flexibility to trips along the river. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff equips adventurers with dry bags to keep belongings safe while tubing or kayaking, making these activities hassle-free and enjoyable. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, the smooth navigation and well-maintained equipment make this adventure accessible to a wide range of visitors.
Complementing the aquatic fun is Riversong Saunas, a distinctive indoor/outdoor sauna experience featuring rustic facilities that invite visitors to cycle between the warm sauna, cold tubs, and scenic deck overlooking nature. This community-oriented wellness spot offers a more casual and authentic vibe compared to traditional spas, perfect for unwinding after a river adventure.
The natural features surrounding the Rivanna River include hardwood forests, gently rolling hills, and occasional rocky outcrops that enhance the scenic value. This area also offers birdwatching and spotting local reptiles and amphibians along riverbanks. While tubing or paddling, visitors can enjoy the sounds of flowing water and abundant wildlife, making it a peaceful escape from city life.
As a local outdoor hub, the Rivanna River Company & Riversong Saunas is a standout for combining recreational water activities with a tranquil sauna experience, all set in Virginia’s picturesque countryside. This combination appeals to both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in nature, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Charlottesville.
Adventure Tips & Safety
Bring a waterproof bag
Use the provided dry bags or bring your own to keep valuables dry during tubing or kayaking.
essential PriorityArrive early for shuttle service
Booking or arriving early ensures timely shuttle pickup to maximize your river time.
info PriorityCheck water levels
Seasonal water flow may vary; higher water levels offer smoother navigation but can be faster paced.
warning PriorityWear layers for sauna visits
Bring towels and comfortable layers to easily transition between sauna heat and outdoor cold tubs.
info PriorityRecommended Gear
Waterproof dry bag
EssentialProtects your belongings from getting wet during river activities.
Best for: summer
Quick-dry clothing
EssentialKeeps you comfortable on and off the water with fast drying fabric.
Best for: summer|spring|fall
Towel and layered clothing
EssentialUseful for sauna visits and adjusting to changing temperatures.
Best for: fall|winter
Water shoes
Helps protect feet from rocky riverbeds and provide grip on wet surfaces.
Best for: summer
Seasonal Guide
spring
Spring offers blossoming flora and increased wildlife activity, with crisp air and occasional rain showers. Water levels can be higher due to melting snow and rain.
Best For:
- kayaking
- wildlife watching
- mild weather exploration
Challenges:
- variable water levels
- cooler temperatures
summer
Summer is prime season for river floats and water sports, with warm temperatures inviting a refreshing dip. Early mornings and evenings are best to avoid heat and crowds.
Best For:
- tubing
- swimming
- sauna relaxation
Challenges:
- midday heat
- crowds on weekends
fall
Fall colors enrich the landscape with vibrant foliage, creating stunning paddling routes. Cooler weather makes sauna visits especially inviting after time on the water.
Best For:
- kayaking
- scenic views
- mild climate
Challenges:
- shorter daylight hours
- cooler water temperatures
winter
Winter is a quieter time at the river, with many water activities on pause but the sauna experiences offering rustic warmth and peaceful nature views.
Best For:
- sauna therapy
- quiet escapes
- nature observation
Challenges:
- cold water
- limited water activities
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience to kayak or tube here?
No prior experience is necessary; beginner-friendly equipment and easy river navigation make it suitable for all skill levels.
Is a reservation required for tubing or kayaking?
Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and during peak season, to secure equipment and shuttle service.
What safety measures are in place during water activities?
Life jackets are provided and required for all participants. Staff offers safety briefings before trips.
Can I bring alcohol to the river float or sauna?
Policies vary; casual local events may offer drinks with donations but check in advance as some activities restrict alcohol for safety reasons.
Are the sauna facilities co-ed and open year-round?
Yes, the Riversong Saunas are co-ed and operate year-round, offering a rustic indoor/outdoor experience perfect for any season.
What is the best time of day to visit for fewer crowds?
Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for a quieter experience both on the river and at the sauna.
Photography Tips
Best Photo Spots
- Golden hour
- early morning
- overcast afternoons
Golden Hours
river landscapespaddlers on the waterrustic sauna structures
Recommended Equipment
- River entry and launch points
- Deck area overlooking the river at Riversong Saunas
- Along shaded river bends with calm reflections
Essential Information
Nearby City
Charlottesville
Activity Details
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic fitness; light to moderate paddling or floating effort.
Technical Skills
- • Basic paddling or floating skills recommended, no expert skills required
Local Insights
History
The Rivanna River has historical significance as part of Virginia’s early transportation and trade routes dating back to the colonial period.
Hidden Gems
- •Little Saturdays river float events for a casual community vibe
- •Riversong sauna cold tubs for a refreshing post-sauna dip
Wildlife
- •Great Blue Heron
- •River Otters
Experience Level
easy
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with some outdoor experience.