Paddle an easy 5-mile James River stretch with Class I rapids
2–3.5 hours
Boat rental, shuttle, gear
Explore a short, beginner-friendly paddle from Springwood to Buchanan on the James River. Choose a kayak or canoe and enjoy gentle riffles and several Class I rapids along the 5-mile route.
All trips require at least two people per party, and all participants must be able to swim. Participants must be at least 6 years old, footwear is required, and alcohol is not allowed on the river per Virginia state law.
Full refund with 4 days advance notice. Full refund if Twin River Outfitters cancels due to high water levels, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. No refunds with less than 4 days notice. No-shows charged full price.
Arrive dressed for the river (swimsuit, T-shirt, quick-drying shorts). In cooler weather, wear clothing that will keep you warm when wet (such as polypropylene). Wear footwear like old tennis shoes or river sandals with ankle straps—no flip-flops or bare feet. Bring plenty of drinks in non-breakable containers (no alcohol), plus sunscreen. Consider a towel, a change of clothes, and dry shoes for after the trip.
Yes. Everyone must be able to swim and not be afraid of the water.
No. Alcohol is not allowed on the river per Virginia state law.
Twin River Shop 640 Lowe Street Buchanan, VA 24066
Twin River Outfitters stands out for its exceptionally organized operation and genuinely friendly staff. Multiple reviewers mention how thoroughly prepared they felt before hitting the water, thanks to detailed maps, safety briefings, and knowledgeable guides who explain river obstacles. The equipment is consistently described as top-notch, and the staff goes above and beyond with things like declining tips and showing remarkable flexibility with weather-related reschedules (including full refunds when needed). Several paddlers specifically note the professionalism paired with a personal, welcoming touch. The James River trips themselves sound beautiful and peaceful, with clean water, wildlife sightings including turtles and ospreys, and manageable rapids. The glamping option gets rave reviews for its well-equipped wall tents and gear transfer service, which lets you paddle without being weighed down by camping equipment. Whether you're booking a multi-day adventure or a simple half-day paddle, the operation runs smoothly from start to finish. Repeat customers keep coming back, and that tells you everything you need to know.
Just completed the 3 day, 2 night glamping trip Glen Wilton to Buchanan. I would highly recommend this trip and Twin Rivers in general. We checked in and were given great packets with maps and mileage, as well as a briefing by staff. Definitely helped us be prepared for the conditions. We got paddles and PFDs and put our gear in the kayak trailer, dry bags were available for our use but we didn’t need them. We were taken to our second night campsite first, just to familiarize and see where to exit the river. We then went to our first night campsite, same drill but we left our gear there. A quick trip to the launch point and we were off. I can’t stress enough how well prepared we felt before we even hit the water. The campsites (Glampsites) were really nice, wall tents with cots, fire pits, chairs, tables, fresh water container, bathroom, and firewood for sale. Really very comfortable! We utilized Twin Rivers gear moving service, so all we took on the water was fishing gear, lunches, and day bags. Twin Rivers had all our other gear moved to the next site and waiting for us. Very convenient, made the paddling way easier and more comfortable. Overall a definite 5 star experience, a professional and friendly outfit and staff, competitive pricing, and a well thought out experience. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with Twin Rivers, I will definitely be doing it again!
Steve Bohr
October 14, 2025
Just completed the 3 day, 2 night glamping trip Glen Wilton to Buchanan. I would highly recommend this trip and Twin Rivers in general. We checked in and were given great packets with maps and mileage, as well as a briefing by staff. Definitely helped us be prepared for the conditions. We got paddles and PFDs and put our gear in the kayak trailer, dry bags were available for our use but we didn’t need them. We were taken to our second night campsite first, just to familiarize and see where to exit the river. We then went to our first night campsite, same drill but we left our gear there. A quick trip to the launch point and we were off. I can’t stress enough how well prepared we felt before we even hit the water. The campsites (Glampsites) were really nice, wall tents with cots, fire pits, chairs, tables, fresh water container, bathroom, and firewood for sale. Really very comfortable! We utilized Twin Rivers gear moving service, so all we took on the water was fishing gear, lunches, and day bags. Twin Rivers had all our other gear moved to the next site and waiting for us. Very convenient, made the paddling way easier and more comfortable. Overall a definite 5 star experience, a professional and friendly outfit and staff, competitive pricing, and a well thought out experience. Do yourself a favor and book a trip with Twin Rivers, I will definitely be doing it again!
Steve Bohr
October 14, 2025