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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Charlottesville…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Kayaking Tours
    5. /Paddle the Rivanna River South Fork From Charlottesville
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    Paddle the Rivanna River South Fork From Charlottesville

    Paddle the Rivanna South Fork with shuttle service and Class I–II rapids

    4.8 stars• 220 reviews

    Duration

    3.5 hours to 4.5 hours

    Includes

    Shuttle service, Paddling trip

    Highlights

    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.

    • Launch below the reservoir dam and paddle to Free Bridge
    • Navigate serene pools with several Class I rapids and three Class II rapids
    • Choose a canoe, single kayak, or tandem sit-on-top kayak
    • Ride the provided shuttle at the beginning or end of your trip
    • Watch for scenery along woods and fields bordering the river
    • Start with a guided trip if you are new to this section of the Rivanna

    What's Included

    • Shuttle service
    • One dry bag per group

    Things to know

    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.

    Cancellation Policy

    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.

    Product ID: NHDRKM

    FAQs

    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).

    Meeting details

    1520 E. High Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902,

    Experience provided by Rivanna River Company

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Single Sit on Top Kayak

    $51.20

    Our preferred boat on the Rivanna River

    0

    Tandem Kayak Paddler

    $47.86

    This is a PER PERSON reservation. Total maximum weight limit for tandem kayaks is 325 lbs.

    0

    Canoe Paddler

    $47.86

    Our most dangerous vessel, previous experience required. This is a PER PERSON reservation.

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.8
    Excellent
    220 reviews•Google Maps
    200
    9
    2
    1
    4

    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.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!

    Photo of Heather G

    Heather G

    August 22, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We rented kayaks and SUPs at the end of August with our kids. It was such a great time! Great set up, pretty setting, convenient, friendly staff. Also they have delicious popsicles for after the water. We are from out of state, but if we return to Charlottesville, we will be back!

    Photo of Heather G

    Heather G

    August 22, 2026

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