Big Island - Middle James River Float Trip Campsite

About Big Island South

Approximately 8 miles downriver from Scottsville and 2.5 miles downriver from the Hardware River Wildlife Management Area, this is the premier campsite for an overnight float trip on the middle James. With some of the best smallmouth bass fishing the James River has to offer, this is perfect stopover for a take out at the New Canton/Bremo Bluff boat landing 4 miles downstream. Enjoy an overnight or a couple of days. The 2 acre campsite is on an elevated sand and gravel bar on the south shore of Big Island. There's ample room for multiple tents and boats. Pools and slow moving water to cool off after your float down, and a great place for catfishing and watching satellite fly-bys at night. 

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 

1. Check out river levels, forecasts and warnings. There can be class 1 and 2 rapids (and more) depending on river height. Very experienced paddlers only once the river gets above approximately 5.0 feet or so at Scottsville. OA and the landowner will gladly rebook your stay should the river height not be safe for your group. Check James River Height at Scottsville or other reputable date source. 

2. You must take the south channel (some call it "river right") as you approach the Seven Islands chain to access the campsite. See satellite imagery. 

3. This campsite is only accessible by canoe, kayak or other small craft from the west/upriver. 

4. Cell phone coverage is very spotty in this section of the river bottom. See a bit more of the property and subscribe to our Youtube channel here: Big Island South Property Video

Click here to book a camping reservation, and book Campsite 1.