Hidden in the Blue Ridge Mountains beside a beautiful river is the tiny town of Todd, North Carolina. Only half an hour from a family trip to Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, or Boone, Todd NC makes a perfect addition to your North Carolina vacation! River Girl Fishing in Todd is your next travel adventure for a perfect family adventure day of fly fishing, kayaking, river tubing, or riding bikes along the old railroad trail.
River Girl Fishing is the locally owned adventure team that you need to meet to make your NC family trip the best ever. Kayaking on the peaceful New River is at the top of my “things to do in Todd North Carolina” list. For many reasons.
~~~> A special thanks to River Girl for giving us this amazing trip; it was truly a highlight of our West Jefferson NC adventure! Even if it hadn’t been sponsored, I’d still tell everyone how awesome ya’ll are.
What is River Girl Fishing?
For more than twenty years, River Girl Fishing Co is your go-to adventure in the mountains of Todd, NC. Founded by biologist Kelly McCoy, nicknamed by friends “River Girl”, your group is headed out on an adventure on the water. Alongside her team and co-owner Renata, River Girl Fishing Co has everything you need, but what they offer is more than kayaks and supplies.
Kelly and her group have a passion for the area, for nature, and for sharing it with your group. With twenty years leading NC outdoor adventures near Boone, these are the experts to show you their favorite spots, lead you to where the wildlife hang out, and tell you all about the land you’re traveling through. What began as guided fly fishing trips – even voted the best fly fishing guide! – they now offer all types of river adventures.
Check out this RiverGirl calendar! They even work with locals to offer kayak trips for supplies; she wants water adventures accessible to everyone.
If you’re heading to the area, check out this three day itinerary for West Jefferson, a perfect little town near Todd, NC.
What Does River Girl Offer?
You’ll be following along the South Fork of the New River whether you do an ecotour, kayak trip, or tubing trip. My homeschooling, nature-loving family did an ecotour right alongside Kelly and her team. We learned about the different birds and animals, got kayaking tips, and were able to even view the solar eclipse from the water!
If the beautiful waters of the New River are calling to you for fishing, you can do that with River Girl Fishing as well. Led by a naturalist who loves fishing herself, Kelly or a team member will teach you what you need to know to fish for trout in these waters.
If you want a river experience that’s more than just paddling and floating—one with education, conservation, and genuine care—River Girl is your go-to team. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the staff directly to ask about extra events and floats which might not be listed online. They even host special wilderness dinner and moonlight floats which will be the highlight of your North Carolina trip.
Where is Todd, North Carolina?
Todd is a small North Carolina mountain town in the northwestern part of the state, right in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s part of both Ashe County and Watauga County, and it’s just the kind of peaceful spot that feels tucked away—but not too far off the beaten path.
From Boone to Todd is about a 25 to 30 minute drive, and it takes around 35 to 40 minutes to reach Todd from Blowing Rock. The roads are winding and beautiful, making the drive part of the fun.
Even though it’s a quiet place, Todd is close enough to other High Country favorites that it makes a great day trip or a relaxing base for exploring the area. Whether you’re coming for a river adventure or just looking to enjoy the mountain scenery, Todd is a perfect spot to add to your North Carolina travel plans.
What Can I Expect on a River Girl River Trip?
After your beautiful mountain drive, you will arrive at the old Todd Railroad Station right next to the river. Look for all the kayaks and tubes!
Head inside to check in, make sure your waivers are up-to-date, and get your supplies. If you sign up for a tubing or kayak trip, you will be fitted with everything you need including water shoes if you don’t have yours, a life jacket, and anything else you could need. In the River Girl building, they even sell water supplies you might have overlooked like phone bags and sunscreen.
Once the group is all gathered, the team will give you directions and tell you the plan. They will take you to the start of the trip in their van, unload the kayaks or tubes for you, and if you have a guided tour, go down the river with you. You will float down to the final destination, be helped off the water, and will walk about five minutes back to the RiverGirl headquarters.
What Makes River Girl Different from Other Outfitters?
River Girl Fishing isn’t just another kayak or tubing rental. Founded by biologist Kelly McCoy—aka “River Girl”—this team brings a passion for nature and a science-backed love of the New River. With over twenty years leading adventures in the area, Kelly and her crew know all the hidden spots where wildlife hangs out, and they’re eager to share that with you.
Beyond just fun on the water, River Girl is deeply rooted in the community. When Hurricane Helene hit in 2024, they not only bounced back but helped lead local cleanups and supported their neighbors. Plus, they’re one of the only outfitters to open for the season as early as April 1st, meaning you get a jump on the summer crowds.
More Things to Do in Todd, North Carolina
If you have a full day to explore Todd, North Carolina, here’s what else you can do in the area! For the best, up-to-date list of Todd community events, make sure you check—
Explore the Todd Railroad Tracks
Todd was originally founded as an old railroad town for the old Virginia Creeper railroad. Although railroad tracks have been removed, this is now a paved trail making it perfect for biking, walking, or even stroller-pushing. Follow this flat, scenic path as it follows the New River to explore the beautiful North Carolina mountainside.
This trail is perfect for families wanting an easy outdoor experience. Rent bicycles from River Girl Fishing and head out for the day.
Relax at Todd Island State Park
Although the Todd Island Park is still closed (as of writing in June 2025) from the hurricane damage, there are plans to reopen in the future. Pack a picnic and bring it on your walk. Sit on a small beach while the kids toss stones in the water. This simple North Carolina area is perfect for kids and parents to simply relax in nature.
This uninhabited ten acres of land offers a mile of flat, unpaved trails around the island following two branches of the south fork of the New River. If you have about an hour before your water trip with River Girl, make sure you stop at Todd Island Park located only a couple of miles away.
Sadly, the bridge leading to Todd State Park was wiped out in Hurricane Helene making it inaccessible currently. Once it’s repaired, crossing the walkway bridge surrounds you with nothing but nature.
Get on the water with River Girl in Todd, North Carolina in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s is an ideal family-friendly outdoor adventures destination. Located near Boone and Blowing Rock, Todd offers kayaking, tubing, fly fishing, hiking, and biking along scenic river trails. With small town charm, Todd NC is a top spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Call River Girl now; it’ll be the thing your kids can’t stop talking about.
Thanks for stopping by my little corner! Here’s to your next adventure.
I’m Bobbie. As transplants from Texas, my family of six is on a mission to discover all of Georgia’s amazing places, experience amazing road trips across the United States, and create a homeschool life along the way.
Want to adventure like me? Reach out! I’d love to chat. Stop by my Instagram or Pinterest page to discover more of our adventures.
Want to work with me? I’d love to work with your destination and tourism board to help other family travelers see all you have to offer.
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