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,
This riverside spot in Charlottesville has built a loyal following around a surprisingly diverse mix of activities, from sauna and cold plunge sessions to kayaking, tubing, paintball, and live music. The common thread across all of it is genuinely warm, attentive staff who seem to care about making each visit memorable. Thoughtful details like essential oils, ginger lemon tea, lavender towels, and a gathering fire between sauna sessions show real intention behind the experience. The sauna and cold plunge offering draws especially passionate reviews, with couples and groups alike calling it deeply relaxing and beautifully designed. The setting along the Rivanna River adds a natural backdrop that elevates even the simpler activities. Paintball gets a shoutout for being a great outlet for high-energy groups, though fair warning from regulars: long sleeves and pants are a must. With a near-perfect rating across a large number of reviews, this place clearly delivers consistently and is worth adding to your plans.
An absolutely fantastic group of people running a wonderful natural escape. Amazing location and excellent outfitters, we will absolutely be back for another tube adventure!
Kurt Riesbeck
June 21, 2026
An absolutely fantastic group of people running a wonderful natural escape. Amazing location and excellent outfitters, we will absolutely be back for another tube adventure!
Kurt Riesbeck
June 21, 2026
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