NATURAL BRIDGE STATION KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle to a Riverfront Night: Back Run Campsite #8 on the James
A paddle‑in, primitive riverfront campsite near Gilmore Mills—this guide explains where the site sits on the James, what amenities to expect, and the essentials to bring for an overnight trip.
Paddle to a Riverfront Night: Back Run Campsite #8 on the James.
Experience the quiet of Back Run, a string of paddle‑in campsites tucked along the James River near Gilmore Mills. These riverfront sites are primitive and accessible only by water; each campsite provides a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area, offering a straightforward, river‑side overnight away from roads and utilities.
Route Schematic
Route schematic
Key river references and the on‑land approach to Back Run Campsite #8.
Buchanan (upriver reference)
By river, Back Run Campsite #8 is located about 15.5 miles downstream of Buchanan.
Alpine boat landing
The campsite lies roughly 5 miles below the Alpine boat landing on river left.
Back Run Campsite #8 (James River Mile 53.1)
The paddle‑in riverfront campground is reached from the water; on land the approach is via Gilmore Mill Road (State Route 708) and James River Trail to the end of the field at 15 James River Trail, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579.
Glasgow boat landing (downriver reference)
The property is about 6 miles above the Glasgow boat landing.
Access is paddle‑in only for customers doing an overnight river trip; sites are primitive with no on‑site water or utilities, so come prepared and expect operator or route variations based on river conditions.
What the day feels like
How the trip unfolds
This is a paddle‑in overnight: you reach the site by boat, land at a level gravel area, set your tent by the picnic table and light a fire in the provided ring. The setting is intentionally simple—primitive sites with a porta‑potty and a group river access area—so plan to arrive self‑sufficient and leave no trace.
THE LANDSCAPE
Riverfront Solitude
Back Run Campsite #8 sits on the James River near Gilmore Mills, offering paddle‑in access to a quiet riverfront setting perfect for an overnight escape.
THE CAMPSITE
Primitive comforts at each site
Each campsite contains a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area; the campground also includes a group river access area and a porta‑potty, but no on‑site water or utilities.
THE LOGISTICS
Where to find it on the river
By river, the property sits about 15.5 miles downstream of Buchanan, roughly 5 miles below the Alpine boat landing on river left, and about 6 miles above the Glasgow boat landing (James River Mile 53.1).
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this site suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Customers are required to bring their own water and to pack out their trash; the sites have no on‑site water, utilities or dumpster.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What are the rates?
The rate is $14 per person per night plus tax, with a minimum $36 camping fee.
How many campers can the site accommodate?
The site is listed as accommodating up to 10 campers.
Is the campsite accessible by car?
No — the Back Run paddle‑in campsites are available for paddle‑in only for customers doing an overnight river trip and are not generally accessible by vehicles.
What amenities are provided?
Each campsite contains a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area; the campground also has a group river access area and a porta‑potty, but no water, dumpster or utilities.
How is billing handled for young children?
Children under age 5 are not counted for billing purposes.
Where is the site located and how do I reach it on land?
The site is near Gilmore Mills off State Route 708 (Gilmore Mill Road). On land, turn onto Gilmore Mill Road to the 1000 block, take a right across the railroad tracks onto James River Trail, enter the gate, take a left and go to the end of the field at 15 James River Trail, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579 (James River Mile 53.1).
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-13T02:48:17.104Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.