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Camping

Sleep under the stars. The Upper James River Water Trail is served by a variety of camping and lodging options, including: In Botetourt County, camping is available at Gala, Horseshoe Bend, and Arcadia through Twin River Outfitters. In Rockbridge County, camping is available at James River Depot, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Camp & Resort and Wilderness […]

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Fishing

Discover Excellent Fishing on the Upper James The Upper James River, from its headwaters in Botetourt County through Rockbridge County provide some of the finest freshwater fishing available in Virginia. Anglers visit from all across the country to fish the region. The James River offers a wide range of angling opportunities and settings. Smallmouth bass […]

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Outfitters

Need a Guide or Gear? OUTFITTERS Plan your river adventure with these outfitters:   Maury River Smallmouth, LLC 24 Musket Loop, Natural Bridge, Va 24578 (540) 632-3990 | mauryriversmallmouth.com   Providing kayak rental and paddler shuttle services on the Upper James River, from Iron Gate to Snowden, as well as the Maury River. Also provides […]

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Suggested Itineraries

If you’ve seen the Blue Ridge Mountains from a scenic overlook or while driving along a quiet back road, it’s time for a totally new perspective – river level. The Upper James River Water Trail meanders through beautiful Botetourt and Rockbridge Counties. The trail is organized into sections, each offering a unique river experience. Select […]

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Access Points

Where to get out on the water. There are 12 public access points on the Upper James River Water Trail that are owned and operated by the Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. These sites are provided for the public with the expressed sole purposes of boating and fishing. Public Access Point Type of Launch […]

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What to Bring

Don’t leave home without it. In addition to your canoe or kayak, paddles, and life jackets we recommend you bring the following: Dress for a day on the river. Most folks wear bathing suits, shorts, tee shirts. Wear shoes, old gym shoes sandals with ankle straps work great River map Sunscreen / Lip balm Plenty […]

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Events

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you pronounce Botetourt? Botetourt County (pronounced Bot-i-tot) was named after popular royal governor Norborne Berkeley, Baron de Botetourt. How long do the trips last? It mainly depends on the water level. Trips are normally much faster in the springtime when the water is higher. The average summer time paddler travels between 2 – 3 […]

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Plan a Trip

When you hear the river calling, head to the Upper James River Water Trail. Perhaps your perfect day on the river is a carefree float in a tube and chatting with friends on a hot summer day. Maybe you would rather be casting a fly in search of a trophy catch. For others, it means […]

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Maps

The James River starts at the confluence of the Jackson and Cowpasture Rivers in Botetourt County north of Roanoke, Virginia. Roughly 46 miles of river flow through the county before crossing into neighboring Rockbridge County for approximately 20 more miles. The Water Trail also encompasses a stretch of the Maury River, including where it meets […]

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