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
48 species have been reported at this site to date.
Birds Recently Seen at Indian Draft – Jackson River Float Trip:
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
Amenities
- On-site Parking
- Kayak/Canoe Launch
Accessibility Considerations
Learn more about Birdability’s efforts to map accessible outdoor spaces
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:
- Free, Daily
Contact Information:
- (540) 962-2214 elizabeth.higgins@usda.gov
- 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.


