When the weather is warm, there are few activities more refreshing than river tubing in Virginia. Floating downstream without a care in the world, you can enjoy the stunning scenery around you and unwind. That’s especially true when you visit a destination like James River State Park, one of the best spots in Virginia for this beloved pastime. If you’ve never been tubing at James River State Park before, you’ll definitely want to add this activity to your outdoor bucket list.
James River State Park is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Gladstone, Virginia. Upon entering the park, you’ll feel transported into a world of natural beauty and adventure.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
The heart of the state park is, of course, the James River itself. The park features three miles of shoreline along this iconic Virginia river.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
When you visit, be sure to stop by the visitor’s center where you can learn more about all the activities that await. There are also informative displays that showcase the history of the water.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
If it’s warm enough outside, you’ll definitely be tempted to rent a kayak, canoe, or tube from the on-site canoe livery.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Tubing is especially popular in this park given the stunning natural scenery and the gentle pace of the water. Visitors can float up to eight miles.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Of course, kayaking and canoeing are equally magical, albeit slightly more work.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Fortunately, the park provides transportation that will take you and your gear back to where you started.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
So whether you’re someone who loves a good float trip or it’s your first time, you’ll agree that the setting of James River State Park is simply unparalleled.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Have you been tubing at James River State Park in Virginia? What did you think? We’d love to hear all about your adventures – be sure to leave us a comment! For more information, head on over to the Virginia State Parks website.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Looking for more water adventures? Check out our list of the 7 best lazy rivers in Virginia for tubing.
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Address: James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr, Gladstone, VA 24553, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
tubing in Virginia May 19, 2022 Beth C. What are the best floats in Virginia? Tubing in Virginia is such a classic experience. Whether you’re fond of natural lazy rivers or those you’d find at a waterpark, there’s no denying that drifting on a gentle current under the summer sun is nothing short of heavenly. You’ll find there are plenty of places to go tubing in Virginia. In addition to Shenandoah River State Park, there’s an impressive collection of float trips for you to enjoy. The James River is one of the most prominent rivers in Virginia, and there are many stretches perfect for a float trip. One in particular located near Charlottesville is operated by James River Runner and offers a 3-mile trip that takes anywhere from two to four hours to complete. Check out more of the best floats in Virginia. What else can I do at Shenandoah River State Park? Now that you’ve learned all about the floating and tubing opportunities at Shenandoah River State Park, it’s time to learn about the other activities at this beloved outdoor destination. If you’re more of a land enthusiast, you can enjoy countless hiking trails as well as a beautiful campground complete with traditional tent sites, cabins, and even yurts. Truly, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy at Shenandoah River State Park. What’s the best Virginia natural lazy river? Head to Luray, Virginia, and check out Shenandoah River Outfitters for relaxing excursions along the beautiful Shenandoah River. If you would prefer an alternative to tubing, there’s also kayaking available. Plus, the company offers overnight accommodations so you can extend your stay. Are there any waterparks with lazy rivers in Virginia? You bet! If you don’t feel like venturing off-the-beaten-path to find a natural lazy river, you can opt for a man-made alternative. Some Virginia waterparks that feature lazy rivers include Signal Bay Waterpark, Maui Jack’s Waterpark, Massanutten Indoor Waterpark, SplashDown Waterpark, Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, Onesty Family Aquatic Center, and Great Waves Waterpark.
The OIYS Visitor Center
tubing in Virginia
May 19, 2022
Beth C.
What are the best floats in Virginia? Tubing in Virginia is such a classic experience. Whether you’re fond of natural lazy rivers or those you’d find at a waterpark, there’s no denying that drifting on a gentle current under the summer sun is nothing short of heavenly. You’ll find there are plenty of places to go tubing in Virginia. In addition to Shenandoah River State Park, there’s an impressive collection of float trips for you to enjoy. The James River is one of the most prominent rivers in Virginia, and there are many stretches perfect for a float trip. One in particular located near Charlottesville is operated by James River Runner and offers a 3-mile trip that takes anywhere from two to four hours to complete. Check out more of the best floats in Virginia. What else can I do at Shenandoah River State Park? Now that you’ve learned all about the floating and tubing opportunities at Shenandoah River State Park, it’s time to learn about the other activities at this beloved outdoor destination. If you’re more of a land enthusiast, you can enjoy countless hiking trails as well as a beautiful campground complete with traditional tent sites, cabins, and even yurts. Truly, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy at Shenandoah River State Park. What’s the best Virginia natural lazy river? Head to Luray, Virginia, and check out Shenandoah River Outfitters for relaxing excursions along the beautiful Shenandoah River. If you would prefer an alternative to tubing, there’s also kayaking available. Plus, the company offers overnight accommodations so you can extend your stay. Are there any waterparks with lazy rivers in Virginia? You bet! If you don’t feel like venturing off-the-beaten-path to find a natural lazy river, you can opt for a man-made alternative. Some Virginia waterparks that feature lazy rivers include Signal Bay Waterpark, Maui Jack’s Waterpark, Massanutten Indoor Waterpark, SplashDown Waterpark, Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, Onesty Family Aquatic Center, and Great Waves Waterpark.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
Tubing in Virginia is such a classic experience. Whether you’re fond of natural lazy rivers or those you’d find at a waterpark, there’s no denying that drifting on a gentle current under the summer sun is nothing short of heavenly. You’ll find there are plenty of places to go tubing in Virginia. In addition to Shenandoah River State Park, there’s an impressive collection of float trips for you to enjoy. The James River is one of the most prominent rivers in Virginia, and there are many stretches perfect for a float trip. One in particular located near Charlottesville is operated by James River Runner and offers a 3-mile trip that takes anywhere from two to four hours to complete. Check out more of the best floats in Virginia.
What else can I do at Shenandoah River State Park?
Now that you’ve learned all about the floating and tubing opportunities at Shenandoah River State Park, it’s time to learn about the other activities at this beloved outdoor destination. If you’re more of a land enthusiast, you can enjoy countless hiking trails as well as a beautiful campground complete with traditional tent sites, cabins, and even yurts. Truly, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy at Shenandoah River State Park.
What’s the best Virginia natural lazy river?
Head to Luray, Virginia, and check out Shenandoah River Outfitters for relaxing excursions along the beautiful Shenandoah River. If you would prefer an alternative to tubing, there’s also kayaking available. Plus, the company offers overnight accommodations so you can extend your stay.
Are there any waterparks with lazy rivers in Virginia?
You bet! If you don’t feel like venturing off-the-beaten-path to find a natural lazy river, you can opt for a man-made alternative. Some Virginia waterparks that feature lazy rivers include Signal Bay Waterpark, Maui Jack’s Waterpark, Massanutten Indoor Waterpark, SplashDown Waterpark, Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, Onesty Family Aquatic Center, and Great Waves Waterpark.
