North Carolina River Riders

Drift through North Carolina’s foothills with a peaceful paddle down the Yadkin River—perfect for kayaking, tubing, and reconnecting with nature.

Group of kayakers paddling down the calm Yadkin River surrounded by green trees and foothill views

Local Activity

The Yadkin River offers a slow, scenic escape that’s perfect for families, couples, and solo paddlers alike. Winding through the heart of the Yadkin Valley, this peaceful river invites you to trade your screens for paddles and soak up the sights and sounds of the great outdoors.

Whether you’re looking for a short float or a full-day journey, local outfitters like North Carolina River Riders provide kayak, canoe, and tube rentals—plus shuttle service to make it easy.

What to Expect

  • Calm, beginner-friendly water perfect for all ages
  • Half-day and full-day float options
  • Tube, kayak, and canoe rentals available
  • Gorgeous views of forest, foothills, and wildlife
  • Convenient shuttle pick-up and drop-off

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Reserve your trip online or by phone with North Carolina River Riders
  2. Arrive and check in at their riverside launch spot in Jonesville
  3. Choose your vessel—tube, kayak, or canoe
  4. Get shuttled upriver, then float or paddle back at your own pace
  5. Relax, swim, or picnic along the way and enjoy nature’s rhythm
“We had the best time kayaking the Yadkin! Calm water, beautiful views, and the staff made everything easy from start to finish.”

Important Information

  • Seasonal hours (Spring–Fall, weather permitting)
  • Life jackets included with every rental
  • Advance reservations recommended—especially on weekends
  • Children welcome (ages vary by rental type)
  • Bring sunscreen, water, and waterproof phone storage

Additional Details

The Yadkin River is one of North Carolina’s longest and most historic rivers, stretching over 200 miles. It’s ideal for those looking to unplug and enjoy a slower pace. Whether you’re paddling solo, floating with friends, or guiding the kids on a tubing adventure, this river offers both fun and tranquility.

  • Great for birdwatching, photography, and summer cooling off
  • Multiple trip lengths available (1.5 to 6+ miles)
  • Easy access from Hometown Campground and downtown Jonesville
  • A must-do experience for nature lovers visiting Yadkin Valley

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Explore Our Unique Lodgings

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Testimonials

What Our Guests Are Saying About Their Stay

It was great! The rv lot sits up, so you don't have to worry about flooding like some of the other rv parks in the area. The office staff was super nice! Checkin was good, even for after hours! Other campers were friendly there. Great dog friendly and kid friendly park! The walk to see the Yadkin river and the covered bridge and trail were pretty cool too! Trash pickup was at ur site daily, which was nice! The location was good, being close to the highway, restaurants, Foodlion, but still tucked away in a quiet area! They have events, but unfortunately we didn't make it back to see and it was rainy. I would definitely recommend this site!!

Barbie A
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Google

Great little campground in Jonesville, NC!! Our friend told us about it near her house so we booked it!! So glad we did!! Convenient to our trips to Perry Lowe's for apples and cider and Mt Airy to wonder around "Mayberry" for ice cream and shop for fabric at the Fabric Menagerie!! Great new park with multiple playgrounds for the kids, a laundry and restrooms and hiking path. There are WiFi access points all around the park. A must to stay at if in the Elkin or Jonesville area!!!

Rena Corriea
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Google

Stayed here for one night on our way down to Florida. It is definitely a park we would have enjoyed staying longer if it was in our plans. Good sized and roomy sites, well kept grounds, clean (spotless) bath houses and friendly staff. It appears that the relatively new owners are continuously adding improvements to the park.

Eric Fagen
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Google