Rafting & Kayaking Outdoor Adventures in Richmond, VA

Learn new kayak skills by joining us for year-round instructional kayak roll clinics.

Join our 2023 Fall Raft Guide Training Class and learn what it takes to become a professional guide!  Learn valuable river navigation skills while obtaining Swift Water Rescue & CPR Certifications.  Employment opportunities available for those with or without prior experience.

Learn the basics of whitewater kayaking, the
forward stroke, reverse sweep, and river reading
skills in this Richmond intro to kayaking class!
Book now!

Enjoy scenic, flatwater stretches of the James River while learning solid stroke fundamentals and exploring Richmond’s history with a group of friends or family by kayak or Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP).

Take a relaxing trip down the Upper James River on an inflatable kayak. Enjoy the Class I-II rapids and beautiful scenery as you kayak in comfort.

If you are looking for a more mellow ride, the upper offers beginner friendly Class I-II rapids while also providing the experience of being immersed in the James River’s natural scenery.

Scenic tacky light tours during the holiday season in RVA. Enjoy a hot beverage while we chauffeur your group to various holiday sites around the area!

Intermediate Whitewater Kayak Technique Focused Skills Lap

Join the RVAPS team on a week full of outdoor play, hands on learning, and cultivating creativity. Our goal will be to observe ways in which art and nature intersect while exploring the outdoors. 

This program is designed for Rising 4th-Rising 8th graders

Experience a flatwater kayaking trip on the James River at Osborne Landing. Join us during the Atlantic Sturgeon spawning season!

Join us as we offer a variety of paddling experiences appropriate for all ages and skill levels, to increase diversity in the sport, and to promote inclusivity in the paddlesports community here in Richmond.

A week full of outdoor adventure, paddling skill development, and thrills!

Ages 9 – 12

A beginner friendly approach to Whitewater Kayaking, Spend a month gaining professional instruction 2 – 3 times a week in order to obtain solid foundational skills.

Embark with the RVAPS team on a week full of outdoor adventure, interpersonal development, and leadership!

Ages 10 – 14

Come join us for one or more days of adventure school in the James River Park System. These afternoon adventures include flatwater paddling, climbing, and whitewater rafting!

Relax in the hot winter sunshine on giant beaches, swim in warm clean water, traipese through the tropical jungle to spot toucans and jaguar tracks, shreik from the dinosaur-like gaspy roars of howler monkeys, visit two major Mayan arqueological sites, and paddle through a some exciting whitewater in the canyon.

Beat the heat and enjoy colorful skies, rapids, and skyline views as you raft through the heart of Richmond under the setting Sun.

This package is for those new to rock climbing or novice climbers who want a guided experience on the wall. Join us to learn the basics of rock climbing.

Get your kids paddling in no time with our Youth Kayaking School! They’ll learn essential kayaking skills and take on the rapids of the James River and beyond.

Private Kayak Tours can range from flatwater to whitewater kayaking. All skill levels are welcome and we are able to adapt each session to your particular understanding of the sport.

Take our two-day Sierra Rescue River Rescue certification course to learn everyday safety skills as well as how to handle rescue situations effectively.

It may be cold, but it’s still a great time to paddle! RVA Paddlesports is hosting indoor Kayak Polo classes throughout the winter!

Take your paddling to the next level with RVA Paddlesports before work/school training. We will have gear on hand for participants or bring your own. We have an array of whitewater boats available.

Tackle the rapids of the Lower James on the mini whitewater adventure. Practice your strokes as a team and paddle down the rapids below the RVA skyline.

Don’t miss your chance for the best view in RVA of the 4th of July Fireworks on the James. We will be rafting to a secluded island for dinner and fireworks.