BUCHANAN RAFTING FIELD GUIDE
Glamping the Upper James: 16.5 Miles of Class II Flow from Buchanan to Back Run
A two-day, one-night self-guided paddle that pairs multi-hour runs through Class II rapids with new riverside glamping at Arcadia.
Glamping the Upper James: 16.5 Miles of Class II Flow from Buchanan to Back Run.
This two-day paddle glamping trip on the Upper James River threads steady current and a handful of Class II rapids through mountain scenery, finishing each day at private riverside glamping sites—an ideal mix of sustained paddling and comfortable wilderness camping.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Extended paddling with lively Class II rapids
Expect multi-hour paddling across two days with several fun Class II rapids; the water is slightly more technical when levels are higher, rewarding paddlers who want steady moving water rather than calm floats.
Mountain views and a remote-wilderness feel
Stretching 16.5 miles over two days, the route runs through striking mountain country and a remote riverside atmosphere that keeps the focus on the river and the landscape.
New glamping sites on private land at Arcadia
After the first day’s paddle, groups camp at newly developed glamping accommodations on private campsites at Arcadia campground for a comfortable riverside night.
What the day feels like
How the trip feels on the water
The trip unfolds as a focused two-day river journey: an arrival and orientation at the outfitter, a morning launch from the shop, a day of steady current punctuated by Class II rapids to an Arcadia glamping site, then a longer second day’s paddle that finishes at Back Run where staff collect the group and shuttle back to the shop.
THE RIVER
Extended paddling with lively Class II rapids
Expect multi-hour paddling across two days with several fun Class II rapids; the water is slightly more technical when levels are higher, rewarding paddlers who want steady moving water rather than calm floats.
THE SETTING
Mountain views and a remote-wilderness feel
Stretching 16.5 miles over two days, the route runs through striking mountain country and a remote riverside atmosphere that keeps the focus on the river and the landscape.
THE CAMP
New glamping sites on private land at Arcadia
After the first day’s paddle, groups camp at newly developed glamping accommodations on private campsites at Arcadia campground for a comfortable riverside night.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
After check-in you will be issued rental dry bags to pack gear; pack all personal gear into those bags and place them in the shuttle vehicle or boat as directed.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the trip and how many miles do we paddle?
The trip is two days and one night covering 16.5 miles total: about 6.5 miles on day one and about 9.5 miles on day two.
Is this a guided trip?
No — the trip is unguided; customers must be able to paddle and navigate up to Class II rapids and recover a boat on their own without aid of the outfitter.
What are pickup options at the end of the trip?
Pickup at Back Run campground can be scheduled for 2:00 PM, 3:00 PM, or 4:00 PM, when TRO staff will shuttle you back to the shop.
How many people are required to book?
You must have at least two people in your party to book; solo paddlers are not permitted.
Are there weight limits or other health restrictions?
The trip is not recommended for anyone over 350 lbs; participants must be able to paddle and camp in the wilderness for two days.
Do I need to complete paperwork or payment ahead of time?
Yes — you should complete liability waivers and payment prior to check in.