The James River flows 347 miles across the Commonwealth of Virginia, on its way from the high mountains of Botetourt County to the tidal lands of the Chesapeake Bay. The James takes a sharp north curve as it comes through Scottsville, creating the signature horseshoe bend at the heart of our downtown area.
Scottsville residents are part of a statewide community of people committed to using the James River for recreation and industry in a responsible way that protects the waterway for future generations.
From downtown, the public can access the James River from a boat launch just off Main Street. Five miles west of town, there is a small public park and river access at Hatton Ferry, featuring signs interpreting the role of poled ferries in Virginia’s transportation history.
Local businesses take visitors out on the river for guided fishing tours, or for tubing and canoeing floats. See our Outdoor Recreation page to learn more.
Links to external James River organizations
What’s the river level? Live data and 3-day forecast at National Weather Service