James River Batteau Festival Canoe Trip
Purpose & Objectives
This is a multi-night paddle and camp trek that runs alongside the 41st Annual James River Batteau Festival, put on by the Virginia Canals and Navigations Society. The festival is a living history reenactment featuring authentic replica batteaux — the shallow-draft wooden boats that carried goods along the James River 200 years ago, forming the backbone of Virginia's early economy. We'll be paddling the same historic route alongside these boats, stopping each evening at campsites along the river
Extended Option: Interested in paddling the full 120 miles from Lynchburg to Richmond over 8 days? Talk with Mr. Marple and he will evaluate scouts on a case-by-case basis.
Advancement Opportunities
Camping nights
Service hours (campsite cleanup and river trash/tire collection)
50-Miler patch (for scouts completing the service project requirements)
Who Can Participate
This is a high-adventure trip for scouts ages 14 and up. Scouts younger than 14 who have canoeing experience are welcome to apply. Please sign up and include a note about your paddling background — younger scouts will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
A BSA swim check is required — you must qualify as a Swimmer to attend. We've scheduled two swim check opportunities at the YMCA on May 23rd and 24th. Sign up for a swim check time here.
Camping
We'll be camping at multiple sites along the river as we make our way downstream. A support vehicle with a trailer will meet us at designated campsites each evening for resupply and assistance.
Planned Activities
Participation in the James River Batteau Festival
Paddling the James River each day
River cleanup service project (collecting trash and tires along the way — required for the 50-Miler patch)
Free time in the evenings
Cost
Estimated cost is ~$150 per participant, covering all food and camping fees. The exact amount will be confirmed after the trip and payment will be due at the June 29th scout meeting.
Transportation
Departure
We will be meeting at Riveredge Park on the Madison Heights side of the James on Saturday, June 20th by 7:00 AM and launch our canoes from there.
Return
Wednesday, June 24th at 6:00 PM at the Peakland United Methodist Church parking lot. Additional adult drivers will be needed to pick up scouts at the Scottsville Boat Ramp and return them to the PUMC parking lot by 6:00 PM.
Paperwork & Preparation
Before the trip, you'll need to complete:
BSA Swim Check — Must qualify as a Swimmer. Sign up here. This is required to attend.
BSA Health Form Parts A & B — Download the forms, fill them out, then upload them here.
Packing Information
Camping Style: Think backpacking, but on the water. Pack light and pack smart — all gear must fit in a waterproof dry bag secured to your canoe.
Meals: All meals will be provided and cooked troop-wide. No patrol cooking on this trip. Adults will eat the same meals as scouts.
Tents: Bring your own tent. Note: hammocks will not be practical at some campsites due to limited trees.
Trailer: A troop trailer will be towed by an adult and will meet us at each campsite (please indicate on the signup if you are willing to help with this).
Water: Bring a minimum of 3 liters in your canoe. Water will be available from the trailer to refill each evening.
Weather: Prepare for rain and shine.
Safety & Gear Notes:
Sunscreen, hat, and sun protection are essential
Long-sleeve rash guard recommended
Quick-dry underwear and clothing to prevent chafing
Closed-toed water shoes required
Bring a life vest if you have one
Watch out for poison ivy along the riverbanks
Additional Notes
There will be vendors along the route selling shirts, hats, and food — bring cash if you'd like to participate. And leave your phone at home so you don't lose it to the river and end up on this year's t-shirt! 😉