South River at Harriston

South River at Harriston This graffiti-riddled mud-boggin' party hole has been closed off by the landowners. Every landowner surrounding this bridge over South River has posted signs prohibiting parking and trespassing. If you choose to use this under-bridge river access, we suggest you stay in the VDOT right of way next to the Patterson Mill Road (Rt. 778) Bridge. We don't have a good suggestion for parking, so this might work best as a drop off or pick up access site. River recreation carries inherent risk of injury, drowning or death. Shenandoah Riverkeeper always suggests people use one of the local river outfitters for information on water levels and how to safely use the river. For this area try South River Fly Shop http://southriverflyshop.com/ for fishing and Rockfish Gap Outfitters http://www.rockfishgapoutfitters.com/ for boating and outdoors. Regardless, beginners, experienced boaters or those who would like to venture out on their own should heed some general guidelines including but not limited to: 1) Bring much more water than you think you'll need 2) Wear your life preserver and avoid the river when it's high or fast flowing from recent rain 3) Wear closed-toe secure river shoes or tennis shoes at all times 4) Don't drink water from the river 5) Bring wet weather gear even on the hottest days (long summer thunderstorms can give you hypothermia) 6) If you have an open cut or scrape keep it out of the river 7) If you get a cut or scrape from the river, clean it out very very thoroughly right away and make sure no debris/algae or dirt remains in the cut. Disinfect. Keep Dry. River infections are extremely serious. If you suspect infection is developing in a cut after having contact with the river then seek medical attention immediately - emergency care if your doctor is unavailable. Signs of river infection are increasing redness or prolonged soreness, increasing swelling, wound odor and/or fever. 8) In cool weather dress in warm layers. Never wear cotton against your skin and this includes t-shirts and jeans. 9) Be aware of where you are in the river and become familiar with what your take-out point looks like if you're doing a float so you don't miss it and get stranded after dark. 10) Avoid wild animals 11) If thunderstorms develop you should have a plan which usually includes finding a place that reduces your chance of being struck by lightning and/or being hit by a falling branch or tree in high winds. 12) Fish and boat with a partner