Women in the Wild

Tucked along the South Fork of the Shenandoah River, about 90 minutes from Washington D.C., Downriver Canoe Company has been welcoming people to the river since 1974. For one September weekend, we're opening a secluded section of our private Golden Rock Campground exclusively to women, for a retreat that's as much about connection as it is about the outdoors.

Women in the Wild runs September 25–27, 2026, when the Blue Ridge foliage starts to turn. Friday evening, you'll arrive to a welcome gathering and campfire social, a low-key start to a weekend that's entirely yours to shape. Saturday is the heart of it: an optional 3.5-mile self-guided float down the Shenandoah returning right to the campground, a full day of free time at the river's edge, a food truck dinner under the trees, and an outdoor yoga session to close the evening under the Harvest Moon. Sunday morning brings breakfast, the smell of coffee, and a slow pack-up before noon checkout.

Everything is designed to feel elevated without feeling fussy. Camping and breakfast are the base, and you can build your weekend from there. Add a bagged lunch on Saturday, or sign up for the river float, the yoga session, or both. There's no pressure to do it all, and no experience required for any of it. Saturday afternoon is yours to do as you please: relax back at camp, rent an e-mountain bike, take a hike, or book a scenic guided rappel trip. First-time campers, seasoned paddlers, women who just need a weekend away from their inbox, all are welcome!

Spots are limited, so this will be a genuinely intimate group. Bring your friends or show up not knowing anyone and leave knowing people. The Shenandoah has a way of doing that!