Map showing campground location near Buchanan, Virginia

Camper submitted image from Breeden Bottom Campground

Breeden Bottom Campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Situated on the James River about a quarter mile downstream from the Arcadia bridge, Breeden Bottom Campground gives both drive-in and paddle-in campers direct access to one of Virginia's more accessible river corridors. The campground is privately managed, with a gated entry and a lock code sent in the confirmation email. Sites are numbered and each includes a fire ring, picnic table, and a level tent pad. No potable water is available on site, so campers need to bring their own supply.

River access is the defining feature here. Most sites sit right along the water's edge, with short paths leading directly to the James. The current moves at a moderate pace, and reviewers describe it as manageable for dogs and suitable for kayaking, canoeing, and SUP. Fishing gets a mention as well. A railroad track runs parallel to the river near the sites, and trains do pass through, so light sleepers should factor that in. Bugs can be significant in summer months, so pack accordingly.

Site spacing is generous. Alison M. notes that sites are "extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone," which holds up across multiple reviews. Portable toilets and a dumpster are centrally located. Rates run $40 to $70 per night, pets are welcome, and alcohol is permitted. Cell service is available. Campers looking to extend their time in the area can find camping destinations near Buchanan, or consider North Creek Campground as a nearby alternative with a different setting.

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Map & DirectionsBreeden Bottom Campground is located in Virginia near Buchanan

Private Campground

Coordinates

37.56138752 N
79.63387274 W

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Connectivity

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Last on 8/11/26

Connectivity

Presented by

T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More

T-Mobile5G
Excellent Coverage
VerizonLTE
Some Coverage
AT&TLTE
Some Coverage
Verified by 2 users
Last on 8/11/26

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Phone Service
Reservable
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time

27 min from Roanoke, VA
51 min from Staunton, VA
55 min from Blacksburg, VA
55 min from Lynchburg, VA

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Breeden Bottom Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned the spacious, private waterfront sites with excellent river access for paddling and swimming. The campground offers basic primitive amenities, requiring visitors to bring water and suitable for tent camping only.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Alison M.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 31, 2023

Great Find!

This site was in a great location and right on the crystal clear water. The train was loud at times, but we knew that would happen when we booked the site, so no surprises there. Sites are extremely private and spaced out; we couldn't see or hear anyone. Water flows fairly fast in this area, so there were a few people floating and kayaking. Current wasn't too strong for the dogs tho and there was a good, shallow walk-in into the water. Lots of hiking very close by, and we will definitely be staying here again.

Site2

Month of VisitJuly

Lauren B.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 29, 2022

Quiet and Secluded

Sites are spacious and right along the river. Most sites have river access directly from the site. The James river is perfect for kayaking/SUP/canoeing and even swimming, nice and calm. Porta potties and a dumpster are in the center of the grounds. Definitely bring bug spray!

Site8

Month of VisitJuly

Kate V.

Scout

Reviewed Jul. 5, 2022

Awesome camground

This campground is such a hidden gem. There’s a gate and a lock code that you get in your confirmation email. The sites are spaced far enough from each other that you can see each other. Our site had a little path right to the river. Very very spacious campsites. Awesome trees in site 5 for hammocks. Probably my favorite campsite in Virginia now.

Site5

Month of VisitJuly

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 2, 2019

Wonderful Trip

Our site was RIGHT on the river. It was peaceful and private. No water, no electricity available. Not for RVs. There is a railroad track that runs along the James River near the sites, but it never bothered us. Great fishing.

A little additional info from the internet:

BREEDEN BOTTOM CAMPGROUND is located on the James River about 1/4 mile down stream of the Arcadia bridge about 5 mile drive from our canoe livery in Buchanan, VA. It is situated about 6 river miles downstream of our Buchanan based canoe livery location near river mile marker 19. This campground can accommodate both paddle in and drive in campers. Each site is numbered and include a fire ring, picnic table, parking area, and level tent pad. Portable toilets and a dumpster are conveniently located in the center of the campground. Guests will need to bring their own water as no potable water source is provided. $36.00 per site for up to 4 campers.

Month of VisitOctober

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Breeden Bottom Campground located?

Breeden Bottom Campground is located along the James River in Virginia. The campground offers direct riverside camping with sites positioned right on the water. Access requires a gate code that's provided in confirmation emails after booking. The campground's riverside setting makes it ideal for water activities, though campers should note that a railroad track runs along the James River near the camping sites.

What amenities are available at Breeden Bottom Campground?

Breeden Bottom Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. There's no water or electricity available at the sites. The campground does provide porta potties in the center of the grounds and a dumpster for trash disposal. While lacking modern conveniences, the campground compensates with spacious sites, direct river access, and privacy between camping areas. This is a tent camping destination - not suitable for RVs.

Is Breeden Bottom Campground near Arcadia or Buchanan?

Breeden Bottom Campground is in the general vicinity of both Arcadia and Buchanan, Virginia. The campground's location along the James River places it in this scenic area of Virginia. The exact proximity to each town isn't specified, but the campground serves as a good base for exploring both locations. For precise driving distances and directions, it's best to check with the campground directly when making reservations.

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