NATURAL BRIDGE STATION KAYAK FIELD GUIDE
Paddle-In Quiet: Back Run Campsite #7 on the James River
A primitive, riverfront paddle-in campsite near Gilmore Mills — this guide explains access, amenities, rates and what to pack for an overnight on the James.
Paddle-In Quiet: Back Run Campsite #7 on the James River.
Back Run Campsite #7 is one of a string of paddle-in, riverfront primitive sites near Gilmore Mills in Natural Bridge Station, offered for overnight river trips; each site provides basic comforts — a picnic table, fire ring and level gravel tent area — while remaining accessible only from the water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A true paddle-in campsite
The site is riverfront and available only to paddlers on overnight river trips; it’s sited for privacy and easy water access rather than vehicle convenience.
Basic camp comforts in a wild setting
Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area; there’s a group river access area and a porta-potty, but no potable water, utilities or dumpster on site.
Positioned along the James River near Gilmore Mills
The Back Run sites are located near Gilmore Mills off State Route 708 and are referenced on river maps (James River Mile 53.1), placing Campsite #7 in easy paddling distance from local put-ins and take-outs.
What the day feels like
What the trip feels like
This is a low-impact, paddle-in overnight: glide downriver to a tucked riverbank, unload at a primitive camp area that has a picnic table and fire ring, and settle into a riverside night with minimal services—bring your water and carry out your trash.
RIVERFRONT
A true paddle-in campsite
The site is riverfront and available only to paddlers on overnight river trips; it’s sited for privacy and easy water access rather than vehicle convenience.
PRIMITIVE AMENITIES
Basic camp comforts in a wild setting
Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring and a level gravel tent area; there’s a group river access area and a porta-potty, but no potable water, utilities or dumpster on site.
LOCATION
Positioned along the James River near Gilmore Mills
The Back Run sites are located near Gilmore Mills off State Route 708 and are referenced on river maps (James River Mile 53.1), placing Campsite #7 in easy paddling distance from local put-ins and take-outs.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this campsite suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring all potable water you’ll need, a way to pack out trash, camping kit for a primitive site, and any food or fuel; the campground has no potable water or utilities.
Access the area via Gilmore Mill Road (State Route 708); for on-land directions use James River Trail (private road) to 15 James River Trail, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579 — the site is paddle-in only from the river.
Rates are $14 per person per night plus tax with a minimum camping fee of $36; children under age 5 are not counted for billing purposes, and sites accommodate up to six campers.
Each campsite includes 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 dumpster, water, or other utilities.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Can I drive to Back Run Campsite #7?
No; the Back Run campsites are paddle-in only and available for customers doing an overnight river trip, not generally accessible by vehicle.
How many people can camp at a site?
Sites accommodate up to six campers.
What are the rates?
The rate is $14 per person per night plus tax, with a minimum camping fee of $36.
Are young children counted in the fee?
Children under age 5 are not counted for billing purposes.
What facilities and services are available at the campsite?
Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring and level gravel tent area; there is a group river access area and a porta-potty, but no potable water, utilities or dumpster—customers must bring water and pack out trash.
Where is the campsite located on the river?
Campsite #7 is near Gilmore Mills off State Route 708 and is listed at James River Mile 53.1 on TRO river maps; it is 15.5 miles downstream of Buchanan and about 5 miles below the Alpine boat landing (river left).