Paddle the Rivanna South Fork with shuttle service and Class I–II rapids
3.5 hours to 4.5 hours
Shuttle service, Paddling trip
Explore the South Fork of the Rivanna River on a 3.5–4.5 hour paddle from South Fork Dam to Free Bridge. Follow winding bends, calm pools, and Class I and II rapids as the river meets the North Fork.
Minimum age is 6. All participants must be able to swim. Wear water shoes or sturdy sandals with a heel strap; no flip flops or bare feet.
Self-guided trips: full refund with 48 hours notice. Guided trips or custom trips: cancel/change at least 72 hours in advance for a refund. No-shows are charged full price. If RRC cancels due to dangerous weather or other unforeseen circumstances, you receive a full refund.
Yes. All participants must be able to swim.
Plan to get wet. Wear a bathing suit or shorts, a shirt with sleeves for sun protection, and a hat with a brim. Choose non-cotton clothing if possible. Wear tennis shoes, water shoes, or sturdy sandals with heel straps—no flip flops or bare feet.
Bring at least one cell phone per group for safety, plus sunscreen, sunglasses, a brimmed hat, and plenty of water and snacks. Optional items include insect repellent, a camera, a small cooler (fits on the back of the kayaks), and swim goggles or a snorkel mask. Bring any medications you might need (for example, Epi-Pens or inhalers).
1520 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902,
Rivanna River Company offers a surprisingly diverse range of activities that guests consistently rave about. The sauna and cold plunge experiences at Riversong Saunas are clearly the standout, with visitors praising the beautifully designed facilities, thoughtful amenities like essential oils and lavender towels, and the incredible riverside setting. The staff earns repeated mentions for being welcoming, kind, and accommodating. Beyond the sauna offerings, you'll find kayak and tube rentals for lazy river days, with reliable shuttle service to pickup points. What makes this spot special is the genuine vibe people describe. Reviewers use words like "magical" and note it feels transported to somewhere cooler than its actual location. The little touches matter here: complimentary ginger lemon tea, cozy gathering areas with fire pits between sauna sessions, and staff who make group experiences memorable. One reviewer mentioned the venue also hosts concerts and bluegrass shows, adding another dimension to the property. The river itself runs calm and slow, perfect for relaxing float trips with a cooler in tow.
My wife and I did the sauna experience and LOVED it. It was the highlight of an extended romantic weekend away. The staff was lovely and the whole experience was so relaxing. Loved doing the cold plunge with it too!
Ben Johnson
March 14, 2026
My wife and I did the sauna experience and LOVED it. It was the highlight of an extended romantic weekend away. The staff was lovely and the whole experience was so relaxing. Loved doing the cold plunge with it too!
Ben Johnson
March 14, 2026