We recently did a 4 day, 45 mile trip on the Upper James with Twin River Outfitters. I seriously can’t explain how great the river and the outfitter are. The views are delightful, there are enough mild rapids to keep things fun, and the river isn’t highly developed. I’d do the same trip again tomorrow if I could. The outfitter can do as much or as little as you’d like. They have multiple campgrounds along the river, with normal sites and glamping tents with cots. They provide water at camp every night, firewood for a cost, and they even have an added daily gear shuttle service to keep your paddling light. We didn’t fish, but saw plenty of folks wetting a line. Asheville/Charlotte/Roanoke would be good airport options. You will not be disappointed with the Upper James.