NATURAL BRIDGE STATION KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle to Back Run Campsite #6 — a primitive riverfront pitch near Gilmore Mills
A paddle‑in, primitive riverside campsite for overnight trips; this guide explains access, on‑site facilities, rates, and what to pack.
Paddle to Back Run Campsite #6 — a primitive riverfront pitch near Gilmore Mills.
Back Run Campsite #6 is one of the paddle‑in, riverfront campsites near Gilmore Mills outside Natural Bridge Station. These primitive sites are available only to overnight paddlers and offer a compact, riverside base with basic amenities for groups and solo paddlers who arrive by water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A paddle‑in stop on the James River
The campsite sits on the river near Gilmore Mills and is reachable only by water; by river it is 15.5 miles downstream of Buchanan, about 5 miles below the Alpine boat landing (river left), and 6 miles above the Glasgow boat landing.
Primitive, riverfront pitching area with basic fixtures
Each site offers a level gravel tent area, a picnic table and a fire ring; the camp area also includes a group river access area and a porta‑potty but no water, utilities, or dumpster.
Simple rules and fees for overnight paddlers
Sites are paddle‑in only for customers doing overnight river trips; rates are charged per person with a minimum camping fee.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
The Back Run sites are a straightforward river overnight: you reach shore from your boat, set a tent on a level gravel pad beside the James, sit at a picnic table, and light a contained campfire in the ring. The setting is intentionally primitive — no on‑site potable water or utilities — and the emphasis is on a compact, waterborne approach and departure.
THE ROUTE
A paddle‑in stop on the James River
The campsite sits on the river near Gilmore Mills and is reachable only by water; by river it is 15.5 miles downstream of Buchanan, about 5 miles below the Alpine boat landing (river left), and 6 miles above the Glasgow boat landing.
THE CAMPSITE
Primitive, riverfront pitching area with basic fixtures
Each site offers a level gravel tent area, a picnic table and a fire ring; the camp area also includes a group river access area and a porta‑potty but no water, utilities, or dumpster.
THE LOGISTICS
Simple rules and fees for overnight paddlers
Sites are paddle‑in only for customers doing overnight river trips; rates are charged per person with a minimum camping fee.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this site works for — and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring all your own potable water and supplies — there is no on‑site potable water or utilities. Guests must pack out all trash.
Each campsite has a level gravel tent area, picnic table and fire ring; the campground includes a group river access area and a porta‑potty but no dumpster, water, or utilities.
The sites are paddle‑in only for overnight river trip customers; approach from the river and use the posted land directions if accessing the property on foot after launching.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much does Back Run Campsite #6 cost?
The rate is $14 per person per night plus tax, with a minimum $36 camping fee.
Are children counted in the fee?
Children under age 5 are not counted for billing purposes.
Can I drive directly to the campsite?
No — the Back Run paddle‑in campsites are available only to customers doing an overnight river trip and are not generally accessible by vehicles.
What facilities are available at the campsite?
Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area; the campground has a group river access area and a porta‑potty but no water, utilities, or dumpster.
Do I need to bring water and pack out trash?
Yes — customers are required to bring in their own water and pack out their trash.
Where is the property located by address and river mile?
The address is 15 James River Trail, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579; James River Mile = 53.1 per TRO River Maps.