Looking for the ultimate river camping experience in Virginia? These multi-day paddling adventures along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River offer the perfect blend of scenic beauty, solitude, and off-the-grid fun. Whether you’re seeking a two-day weekend escape or a three-day wilderness retreat, this guide covers five unforgettable river camping trips that let you canoe or kayak by day and sleep under the stars by night.
River Camping 101
River camping is a multi-day trip where you travel by canoe or kayak and camp along the riverbanks overnight. It’s one of the best ways to explore Virginia’s outdoors at a slower pace, ideal for unplugging, reconnecting with nature, and enjoying a self-guided adventure.
You’ll paddle through miles of forested shoreline, spot wildlife, cast a line, and end each day by setting up camp at peaceful riverside locations. River camping combines the thrill of paddling with the simplicity of sleeping under the stars.
Why Choose the Shenandoah River?
The Shenandoah River is a favorite for river camping thanks to its:
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Gentle, beginner-friendly current
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Stunning Blue Ridge Mountain scenery
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Abundant wildlife, fishing, and swimming spots
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Easy access to boat landings and shuttle services
With clear water, scenic views, and manageable distances, it’s one of the most accessible and rewarding places to experience overnight river adventures in Virginia.
5 Multi-Day River Camping Trips to Try
All of these trips are self-guided, flexible, and include canoe, kayak, or fishing kayak options. Each route is designed with easy shuttle access and plenty of opportunities to camp along the way.
1. Trip #7: Seekford Landing → Front Royal Outdoors
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📅 Duration: 2 Days
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📍 Distance: 23 Miles
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💰 Starting at: $87 per vessel
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🚣 Best for: A classic weekend river camping getaway
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Highlights:
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Remote stretches of the Shenandoah
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Prime mid-river camping locations
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Ideal for paddlers with moderate experience
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This classic two-day float covers 23 miles of the Shenandoah and is perfect for paddlers who want a well-rounded adventure. Trip #7 delivers just the right mix of class I and II rapids, quiet forested stretches, and wide-open bends ideal for fishing, swimming, or simply relaxing. You’ll paddle 4–6 hours per day, with ideal camping around mile 24 or at Low Water Bridge Campground. Highlights include Compton Rapid, peaceful National Forest land, and the scenic McCoys Ford section. It’s one of the most popular options for weekend adventurers looking to unplug and enjoy the rhythm of the river.
2. Trip #7a: Bixler Bridge → Bentonville Landing
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📅 Duration: 2 Days
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📍 Distance: 28 Miles
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💰 Starting at: $91 per vessel
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🚣 Best for: Paddlers looking for solitude and fewer crowds
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Highlights:
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Secluded river sections
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Less-traveled landing point
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Great fishing opportunities
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For paddlers seeking extra solitude, Trip #7a offers a 28-mile, two-day journey through one of the most remote sections of the South Fork. Starting at Bixler Bridge, this route features long stretches of National Forest camping, rolling farmland views, and gently challenging class I–II rapids like Compton and The Ledge. Recommended camping around mile 13 puts you deep in nature, far from the noise of daily life. With 4–6 hours of paddling each day, this is a peaceful float ideal for canoes and kayaks, and for those who want to set their own pace and connect with the wild Shenandoah.
3. Trip #8: Bixler Bridge → Front Royal Outdoors
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📅 Duration: 3 Days
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📍 Distance: 40 Miles
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💰 Starting at: $111 per vessel
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🚣 Best for: Adventurous paddlers ready for a full weekend on the water
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Highlights:
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Three full days of paddling and camping
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Variety of scenery from rolling farmland to forested banks
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Plenty of river bends and inlets to explore
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Covering 40 miles over three days, Trip #8 is the longest and most immersive river camping adventure offered. It combines the best elements of Trips #7 and #7a into one extended route, perfect for anyone who wants to fully disconnect and explore. You’ll paddle past lush forests, scenic cliffs, and prime fishing spots, with recommended overnight stops at mile 13 and Low Water Bridge. Along the way, enjoy riffles, class II rapids, and plenty of quiet moments in the river’s calm pools. Whether you’re camping with friends or family, this trip offers three full days of unforgettable Shenandoah adventure.
4. State Park Trip #5: Burners Ford → Front Royal Outdoors
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📅 Duration: 2 Days
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📍 Distance: 18.5 Miles
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💰 Starting at: $91 per vessel
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🚣 Best for: Beginners or families looking for a shorter option
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Highlights:
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Mellow water flow
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Access to Shenandoah River State Park
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Short mileage makes for a relaxed pace
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Trip SP5 is a shorter, beginner-friendly overnight paddle covering 18.5 miles in two days. It’s ideal for families or anyone looking for a relaxed pace with beautiful scenery and easy logistics. You’ll enjoy class I and II rapids, scenic forested riverbanks, and a night at Shenandoah River State Park (advance reservation required). Paddle 4–6 hours per day, stopping along the way for fishing, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the views. With well-maintained river access and a built-in campsite, this is a low-stress, high-reward introduction to river camping.
5. State Park Trip #6: Bealer’s Ferry → Front Royal Outdoors
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📅 Duration: 3 Days
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📍 Distance: 31 Miles
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💰 Starting at: $116 per vessel
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🚣 Best for: Intermediate paddlers
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Highlights:
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Mix of parkland and remote wilderness
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Ample time for fishing and swimming
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Flexible pacing for a long weekend
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Looking for a multi-day trip that blends state park access with quiet wilderness? Trip SP6 is a 3-day, 31-mile paddle that starts at Bealer’s Ferry and winds through the heart of the Shenandoah. It’s the longest of the state park routes and recommended for paddlers with a bit of experience under their belt. Night one can be spent at a primitive National Forest campsite near mile 17, with a second night at Shenandoah River State Park (advance reservation required). This route offers a steady mix of calm waters, scenic bends, and approachable rapids, making it a great way to experience everything the Shenandoah has to offer at your own pace.
What to Bring for River Camping
Before launching your trip, make sure you’re prepared. Here’s a quick packing list for overnight river camping:
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Dry bags or waterproof containers
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Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad
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Lightweight camp stove or portable grill
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Plenty of water or water filtration
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Quick-dry clothes and river shoes
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First-aid kit, headlamp, sunscreen, bug spray
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Trash bags (Leave No Trace!)
Don’t worry, you’ll receive a full checklist when booking your trip to make sure you’re ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I camp along the Shenandoah River?
You can camp along many sections of the river at primitive riverbank spots. When booking a trip, you’ll be advised on the best areas to stop overnight.
Do I need a permit for river camping?
No camping permits are required for these trips, but you should always respect private land and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Can I bring my own kayak or canoe?
Yes! You’re welcome to bring your own vessel or rent a canoe, kayak, or fishing kayak for your trip.
Are these trips guided?
All trips are self-guided, but maps, shuttle service, and gear are provided.
📅 Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Whether you’re after a peaceful weekend paddle or a rugged 3-day expedition, these river camping trips offer the perfect way to explore Virginia’s wild side.
👉 Book your overnight paddling adventure today and start planning your next riverside escape.
