Description
Elevation: 1341 ft.
The rapids at Indian Draft, although not large enough to cause any real danger, add a little excitement to the float down from Gathright Dam. Travelers pass through a corridor flanked by sycamores on both sides and a ceiling of clear blue sky. Moving down the river provides a continual change in landscape and wildlife. Each turn provides the observer with a surprise—maybe a white-tailed doe and her spotted fawn or perhaps a family of wood ducks with their fluffy young. On closer inspection, the banks hold numerous varieties of wildflower, including orange and yellow jewelweeds, black-eyed Susan, Asian dayflower and many more.
Notes:
- The US Army Corps of Engineers releases water from Gathright Dam on a regular basis, but also as needed. Check the COE’s website before heading out.
Wildlife Sightings
Birds Recently Seen at Indian Draft – Jackson River Float Trip:
48 species have been reported at this site to date.
Recent Checklists:
| Date | # of Species | Submitted By |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Aug 2023 | 6 | Lisa Mease |
| 13 Aug 2023 | 6 | DWR Virginia Bird & Wildlife Trail Team |
| 14 May 2023 | 14 | Kim Kozella |
| 29 Apr 2022 | 8 | Andrew Rapp |
| 28 Apr 2022 | 39 | Barry Kinzie |
Amenities & Accessibility Considerations
Site Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
- No Fee or Permit/Pass Requirement
Maps & Directions
Physical Address: 4411 Jackson River Rd, Covington, VA 24426
From Covington, head north on US-220 N/Hot Springs Rd, turn left onto VA-687/Jackson River Rd, and the entrance will be on the right in approximately 3.4 miles.
Site Information
Managed By:
- U.S. Forest Service
Access Requirements:
Contact Information:
- Visit Website
Sites, or portions of sites, can be closed periodically for management activities. Please always check the site’s website for additional information prior to visiting.