The James River is a beloved natural gem in Virginia, offering beautiful views and endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. From kayaking and tubing to fishing and bird watching, there’s something for everyone. Wild Virginia encourages you to enjoy the river responsibly, protecting both yourself and its incredible ecosystem.

Practicing responsible recreation is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of the James River. Follow these Leave No Trace principles:

• Pack it in, pack it out: Leave no trace and pack up everything you bring in.
• Stay on designated paths and access points to minimize environmental impact.
• Respect wildlife and their habitats by observing from a safe distance.
• Enjoy but do not disturb or remove native plants or trees.

Companies Promoting Safe & Sustainable Recreation

Support these local businesses dedicated to promoting river safety and environmental education:

• Riverside Outfitters (Richmond, VA)
  Offering guided adventures including rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding. They emphasize safety and respect for nature. Follow them at @riversideoutfittersrva.
• James River Reeling & Rafting (Scottsville, VA)
  Providing canoeing, tubing, and kayaking trips, with a strong emphasis on river safety education. Check them out at @jamesriverreelingrafting.
• James River Association (Richmond, Lynchburg, Williamsburg)
  Engaging communities through educational paddling trips and events focused on conservation and sustainability. Connect with them at @jamesriverassociation.
• James River Runners (Scottsville, VA)
  Specializing in tubing, canoeing, kayaking, and eco-awareness initiatives to educate visitors on protecting the river. Follow them at @jamesriverrunners.
• Twin River Outfitters (Buchanan, VA) Known for eco-friendly, multi-day paddling trips emphasizing leave-no-trace practices. Connect at @canoevirginia.

Safety Tips for River Recreation

To safely enjoy your time on the James River:

• Always wear a properly fitted life jacket.
• Check river conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
• Be mindful of currents, rapids, and submerged hazards.
• Paddle or swim within your skill level.
• Bring a friend with you

Wild Virginia is dedicated to preserving the health of our waterways. Join us in advocating for cleaner water and healthier habitats by supporting our campaigns and attending one of our upcoming events.

Follow Wild Virginia and the incredible businesses featured above to stay informed and engaged! Together, we can protect and enjoy the James River for generations to come.