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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Buchanan…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Tubing
    5. /Float the Upper James River Tubing Trip in Buchanan
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    Float the Upper James River Tubing Trip in Buchanan

    Tube the Upper James River with shuttle access and easy Class I rapids

    4.9 stars• 642 reviews
    From$27/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    1 - 1.5 Hours

    Includes

    Tube rental, life jackets, shuttles

    Highlights

    Float the Upper James River on a 1–1.5 hour tubing run with a short shuttle ride to the upstream launch. Start with easy Class I rapids, then drift through a slower stretch back to the property.

    • Check in and get a quick safety orientation
    • Ride a shuttle van about 1.5 miles to the launch site
    • Walk about 150 yards to the river and self-launch
    • Float through 5 easy Class I rapids, then a slower section
    • Go a second time the same day if you catch the last shuttle at 4:00pm

    What's Included

    • Commercial grade river tube
    • Life jacket
    • Safety orientation
    • Required shuttles
    • Tie ropes (as needed)

    Things to know

    Minimum age is 6 and you must be able to swim without a life jacket. At least 2 people are required per party, and footwear is required. Alcohol is not allowed on the river per Virginia state law.

    Cancellation Policy

    Get a full refund with 4 days advance notice. Get a full refund if Twin River Outfitters cancels due to high water levels, severe weather, or other unforeseen circumstances they deem appropriate. No refunds with less than 4 days notice. No-shows are charged the full price.

    FAQs

    No. You must know how to swim without a life jacket, and you must wear a life jacket at all times on the river.

    Arrive dressed for the river (swimsuit, T-shirt, quick-drying shorts). Wear secure river footwear like old tennis shoes or river sandals with ankle straps (no flip flops or bare feet). Bring plenty of non-breakable drinks, sunscreen, and any medications you may need. Leave a towel, change of clothes, and dry shoes in your car.

    No. Alcohol is not allowed on the river under Virginia state law.

    Meeting details

    640 Lowe Street Buchanan, VA 24066

    Experience provided by Twin Rivers Outfitters
    Experience provided by Twin Rivers Outfitters

    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

    Reference #TGVQNJ

    Person

    $27.82

    Rental of tube, life jackets, safety orientation, and all required shuttles

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

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      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

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    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    642 reviews•Google Maps
    588
    33
    10
    3
    8

    Robert, John, and the rest of the crew here have built something genuinely special on the James River. The multi-day glamping kayak trips get the most praise, with reviewers raving about how thoroughly the staff prepares guests before they ever hit the water. Detailed maps, personalized route briefings, gear transport between campsites, and mid-river check-ins all point to an operation that has clearly thought through every detail. The glamping setups themselves seem to consistently impress, with raised platform tents, cots, fire pits, and river views making for a comfortable overnight experience without sacrificing the adventure. Single-day kayak and tubing trips get high marks too, with staff earning repeated praise for making first-timers feel confident and welcome. The customer service extends well beyond the trip itself, with reviewers noting how flexible and accommodating the team is when plans change. Honestly, the reviews here are remarkably consistent in their enthusiasm, which is saying something across hundreds of trips. If you are looking for a well-organized river outfitter where the staff genuinely cares about your experience, this appears to be a standout choice in the region.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    This was an absolute amazing adventure!! We loved it!! We did the 6 mile kayak excursion. (Sit on top kayaks) The rapids were fun and not too much to handle. The staff were so friendly and explained things well! They have you call and check in at a certain point to make sure you are doing okay. It’s a smooth running outfit!

    Photo of Cheryl Shaffer

    Cheryl Shaffer

    May 18, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    This was an absolute amazing adventure!! We loved it!! We did the 6 mile kayak excursion. (Sit on top kayaks) The rapids were fun and not too much to handle. The staff were so friendly and explained things well! They have you call and check in at a certain point to make sure you are doing okay. It’s a smooth running outfit!

    Photo of Cheryl Shaffer

    Cheryl Shaffer

    May 18, 2026

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