Events
Women in the Wild
Event Description
Looking for a weekend getaway with like-minded women? 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, and a catered 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.
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.
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 a 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!
Whats included
- A chance to meet like-minded women in an empowering environment
- Seculded camping location next to the South Fork of the Shenandoah River
- 2-nights of camping
- Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday
- Add-on adventure options
Add on options
Activities
Paddle - After breakfast on Saturday, you can choose to start your day with a 1.5 hour (3.5 mile) scenic river trip that ends right at your campsite! This is a chance to explore the river at your own pace. ($40)
Bike - With our mountain bikes you can explore the Shenandoah River State Park off the beaten path. ($35)
Hike - Guided 2-4 mile (subject to ability) scenic hike through George Washington National Forest. ($25)
Rappel - Our repelling adventure at Golden Rock Campground puts you on the rock face right here in the Shenandoah Valley—no experience required. Whether you’re looking for a personal challenge, a family adventure with a little more edge, or a team-building experience that people will actually talk about, rappelling at Golden Rock delivers. ($70)
Yoga - Dive deeper into your Women in the Wild Weekend with a Harvest Moon ceremony. Join Ruby Yoga for a walking meditation, heart-opening yoga movement, guided journaling, sacred fire ceremony and restorative sound bath. This 2-hour riverside event will help you embrace gratitude, prepare for an inward shift as the seasons change, and let go of that which no longer serves you. $50/per person ($60 for non campers/outside guests) Registration required. Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8 p.m.
Food
Saturday Bagged Lunch - Locally inspired, freshly made gourmet sandwiches from Downtown Local. Includes Sandwich, pickle, chips, soda, and cookie. Specific sandwich order will be taken closer to the event. ($25)
Saturday Night Fireside Dinner - Catered dinner from Vibrissa Brewery. Dietary options available. ($35)
Add-ons are available and selectable during the signup process
Contact Form
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Event Location
Golden Rock Campground
9751 US Hwy 340 N Rileyville, VA
Rileyville, VA 22650 US
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