Our Story...
For the past 20 years, Riverside Outfitters has been dedicated to “significantly and responsibly increasing recreational use of Richmond’s natural landscape by providing world-class outdoor experiences and inspiring a return to natural fun.”
In 2005, Scott Turner transformed his passion for the outdoors into a gateway to the James River Park System. As the owner of Truetimber Arborists, Scott had a vision to share his love of tree climbing with people of all ages. He rehabilitated an old farmhouse in Stratford Hills, creating a neighborhood hub for the park system built on core values and simple, natural recreation. The company’s initial offerings included recreational tree climbing, boat rentals, and bike rentals, with Scott’s friends and family serving as the earliest supporters and shareholders.
The company took a significant leap forward in May 2007 when Matt Perry joined as co-owner and President. Matt assembled a talented team of recreation professionals who expanded the business while remaining faithful to its founding principles. Under their leadership, Riverside Outfitters has grown to include rafting, youth programs, paddleboarding, kayaking, and tubing—all while maintaining its commitment to its core values and mission.
Despite our growth and evolution over two decades, we still consider ourselves an outdoor community center first and a commercial outfitter second. Our primary focus has always been fostering meaningful connections: between people and each other, and between people and Richmond’s magnificent James River and urban forest. We strive to create adventures that will stay with you for years to come.
Our professional recreation staff is dedicated to delivering first-class experiences that are safe and perfectly tailored to your desired balance of thrill and relaxation. Whether you’re bringing family, friends, or colleagues, we invite you to discover a memorable outdoor adventure right in downtown Richmond!
From humble beginnings in 2005 with just two rafts, a pickup truck, a trailer, and the foundations of a tree climbing camp, Riverside Outfitters has flourished. Our first raft guide class consisted of only about 10 guides, and our camp had just three counselors.
Today, we proudly operate 15 rafts, employ approximately 45 raft guides and 21 camp counselors, and serve thousands of customers annually. We’ve cultivated a culture that balances professionalism with fun, implementing processes and practices that reflect the responsibility of having so many lives in our care each season.
Working with Riverside Outfitters offers opportunities for personal growth on the river and the chance to form lasting friendships with fellow adventure enthusiasts. We seek exceptional individuals who share our values and want to make a positive impact on our community.
Riverside Outfitters is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, or disability status. Click Here
Each year we consider ourselves lucky to get to show over 4,000 customers why Richmond is the best river city in the U.S. Come play with us!
Providing award-winning adventures since 2005
Top shelf, customer-focused guides and staff
Email us, phone us, or just swing by the shop. We'll answer all your questions as best we can
We invest in top-of-the-line rafts & expedition equipment
Commitment to the environment, our river and our community is why we still love our job after 19 years.
Our location and ability to deliver you a super-fun and convenient experience is second to none