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Discover riverside camping at Arcadia Campground in Buchanan, VA. Enjoy tent sites accessible by drive or paddle, with fire rings and picnic tables beside the New River for a tranquil outdoor escape.
Discover riverside camping at Arcadia Campground in Buchanan, VA. Enjoy tent sites accessible by drive or paddle, with fire rings and picnic tables beside the New River for a tranquil outdoor escape.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Twin Rivers Outfitters · Buchanan, Virginia
Set along the gentle current of the New River near Buchanan, Virginia, Arcadia Campground offers an inviting retreat for campers seeking solace and natural beauty without sacrificing accessibility. Campsite #5, formerly Old Site #3, is a standout option within this small, exclusive campground consisting of only ten tent sites. This riverside spot blends easy access with the immersive feel of wilderness, making it perfect for both novice and experienced outdoor enthusiasts looking to disconnect and recharge amid vibrant river valley scenery.
Buchanan, located in Virginia's southwestern Alleghany Highlands, boasts a long legacy as a hub for outdoor recreation centered on the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. Arcadia Campground harnesses this rich backdrop by providing sites that are reachable both by driving in and by paddling up the river, accommodating land and water adventurers alike. Each campsite, including #5, is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a fire ring—ideal spots to gather around with friends or family after a day spent hiking, fishing, or paddling. Evenings here are defined by the crackle of campfires, the murmur of the river, and star-filled skies largely untouched by artificial light.
What makes Arcadia Campground unique within this region is its balance of intimacy and riverfront access. Unlike larger, busier campgrounds, its limited number of sites foster a quiet, welcoming atmosphere while maintaining proximity to outdoor activity hubs like the New River Trail State Park and local fishing spots. The terrain here features gently sloping banks shaded by mature hardwoods, and the flora includes native species typical to Virginia's river corridors, providing a peaceful setting for observing local wildlife such as white-tailed deer or kingfishers.
Arcadia Campground is a gateway to exploring Buchanan’s outdoor offerings—whether you’re launching a canoe, embarking on a day hike, or simply seeking a serene place to unwind. Its location encourages visitors to slow their pace and appreciate the natural rhythms of the New River, making it a distinctive destination for riverfront camping lovers. The blend of tent camping with direct river access is a rare find in this part of Virginia.
This campsite promises campers a genuine outdoor experience with essential comforts and proximity to nature’s quiet wonders. If you’re planning a trip to Southwest Virginia and want to experience river camping with a touch of privacy and classic Appalachian charm, Arcadia Campground’s Campsite #5 deserves your checklist.
Yes, Arcadia Campground’s sites, including #5, are accessible by drive-in vehicle, making it easy to bring gear.
Pets are typically allowed but should be kept on leash and under control to protect local wildlife.
Campfires are allowed in the provided fire ring but always follow local fire regulations and practice safety.
Yes, the campground is accessible by canoe or kayak along the New River, offering a unique paddling-in option.
Basic pit toilets are available, but there is no running water; guests should bring their own supplies.
Cell service is spotty and unreliable due to the remote river valley location, perfect for an unplugged experience.
Twin Rivers Outfitters, located in Buchanan, Virginia, is a river outfitter specializing in canoe and kayak trips on the James River and surrounding waterways. The business offers a range of experiences from self-guided boat rentals to guided multi-day canoe camping trips and short day paddles. Trip options include full-day boat rentals ("Rent and Go") for experienced paddlers, multi-mile guided runs such as the 5-mile Springwood to Buchanan and 6-mile Buchanan to Arcadia trips, and extended 3-day/2-night itineraries from Buchanan to Glasgow and Glen Wilton to Buchanan. Overnight adventures feature private camping sites, supplied gear on selected multi-day trips, and options to end trips at vehicle take-out points. Several trips include safety orientations and all required equipment; the 5-mile and 10.5-mile options specifically note gear and safety briefings, and the 10.5-mile trip provides a scenic shuttle return. For campers, Gala River Front Campground on a working dairy farm offers drive-in and paddle-in access, picnic tables, and fire rings at Sites #8 and #12. Short overnight trips, such as the 2-day/1-night Buchanan to Alpine and Eagle Rock to Buchanan runs, combine fishing, class II rapids, and private camping. Trip lengths and difficulty range from beginner-friendly Class I riffles to Class II rapids, making options suitable for families, anglers, and experienced paddlers. Reservations and specific trip details, including gear lists, difficulty ratings, and take-out times, are available from the outfitter in Buchanan, Virginia.
Book with Twin Rivers Outfitters