How to Tube the James River

The James River is located in Virginia, running the complete length of the state. The James River has both floating areas and Category 5 rapids. There are several locations along the river where you can enter. So, whether you are in Williamsburg, Virginia, or out near the Blue Ridge Mountains, grab a tube and read through these steps to have a successful and fun trip down the James River.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Bathing suit
• Sunscreen
• Water shoes
• Rope
• Tube
• Life vest
• Cooler
• Water tight bag
• Food
• Map
• Cell phone
• First aid kit

1. Gather all appropriate equipment. Drop off the equipment where the trip begins. A trip can begin at the place where the trip ends or at another location up river.
2. Arrange for a trip through an experienced tubing company. The benefits of going with the tubing company is that they supply tubes, ropes and cooler tubes. The company will either canoe you up the river or drive you up river and plan the float down river. The company also knows where safe areas are on the James and what areas to avoid.
3. Plan your trip ahead of time. Know where you are going and arrange for transportation. Buy a Virginia state map and find out what category rapids are in the region you wish to tube. Plan to float 3 miles down river and keep track of when you get that far. Ask a park ranger or an AAA representative about the conditions of the river where you are entering.
4. Tube the James River at James River State Park in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The state park rents tubes and other necessities for your trip. There are several different trips available ranging in distance and price. There is a pick-up service as well so you won't have to hike 9 miles back to your car.
5. Float for free from the city of Richmond. Enter at the Reedy Creek entrance at Riverside Drive and Hillcrest Road. Advanced reservations are required. Call [phone] for information and reservations. The free tubing is every Saturday in July.