Photo credit: Wyatt Greene
James River
The Details
The James River forms the southeastern border of Nelson County, and is the longest and largest of Virginia’s rivers, draining the center of Virginia, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. Important as a transportation center, the canals, railroads, highways, factories, cities and dams show how central the role of the James River was in developing the state of Virginia. Many access points exist for canoeing or kayaking the river. Small boats (such as john boats) can also be used at most access points.
More Information
Nelson County Access Points
Midway Concrete Ramp (In James River WMA off Rt. 743; Northeast of Wingina)
Wingina Concrete Ramp (Rt. 56, South of Wingina)
James River State Park Boat Ramp and also a Canoe/Livery Landing
James River | Map of James River (Dept. of Game and Inland Fisheries)
Livery Services
Several companies offer livery services for canoeing, kayaking or tubing on the James River, making it easy to get on the water and return you to your original starting point. Call or check their websites for more information.
Howardsville Canoe Livery
292 Logan Road, Scottsville 24590. 434-286-3331
Book a trip for a day on the James, Rockfish or Tye Rivers for yourself, your family or a group. Shuttle service available.
James River Runners LLC – Canoe Livery
10092 Hatton Ferry Rd., Scottsville, VA 24590 434-286-2338
Canoe, kayak and rafting trips (March-October, conditions permitting) Tubing Trips (May-Sept.)
James River Reeling & Rafting
265 Ferry Street, Scottsville, VA 24590 434-286-4386
Canoe, Kayak & Rafting trips / Tubing Trips. Overnight trips available.
James River State Park
751 Park Road, Gladstone, VA 24553
434-933-4355 | 800-933-PARK
Camping, cabins, boat access, hiking trails, fishing