Last updated: August 5, 2026
Place
James River State Park
Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation
Quick Facts
Location:
104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553
Significance:
James River State Park protects diverse landscapes along the historic James River while providing public access to paddling, fishing, trails, and dark sky viewing within Virginia’s Chesapeake Bay watershed.
Designation:
Chesapeake Gateways Network Site, International Dark Sky Park
Amenities
5 listed
Beach/Water Access, Canoe/Kayak/Small Boat Launch, Picnic Shelter/Pavilion, Playground, Restroom - Accessible
Spanning 1,561-acres James River State Park is nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park features rolling grasslands, quiet forests, and three miles of shoreline along the historic James River. The James River has long served as a vital transportation route and ecological haven. Today, the park provides opportunities to experience the river through paddling, fishing, and riverside camping. Amenities include cabins, a visitor center, a gift shop, a natural playground, a boardwalk, picnic shelters, versatile trails, campgrounds with water and electricity, and facilities for equestrian camping.
The park offers prime smallmouth bass fishing, as well as catfish, panfish, and river gar. Visitors can also explore marsh areas and a universally accessible fishing pier for a more relaxed experience. More than 20 miles of multi-use trails wind through lush forests and open fields, inviting hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders to explore the diverse environment. Visitors can also enjoy wheelchair-accessible paths like the Green Hill Pond Trail, which features vibrant wetlands and migratory waterfowl, and the Tye River Overlook, allowing for people with a range of abilities to experience the river landscape.
Designated an International Dark Sky Park, James River State Park also offers exceptional stargazing and night sky interpretative programming. Allowing visitors to look up and reconnect with the celestials wonders that guided travelers here for generations.
As part of the Chesapeake Gateways Network, the park gives public access to the James River and highlights the connection between inland waterways and bay health. Visit the park’s website for details on programs, trails, and visitor activities.
The park offers prime smallmouth bass fishing, as well as catfish, panfish, and river gar. Visitors can also explore marsh areas and a universally accessible fishing pier for a more relaxed experience. More than 20 miles of multi-use trails wind through lush forests and open fields, inviting hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders to explore the diverse environment. Visitors can also enjoy wheelchair-accessible paths like the Green Hill Pond Trail, which features vibrant wetlands and migratory waterfowl, and the Tye River Overlook, allowing for people with a range of abilities to experience the river landscape.
Designated an International Dark Sky Park, James River State Park also offers exceptional stargazing and night sky interpretative programming. Allowing visitors to look up and reconnect with the celestials wonders that guided travelers here for generations.
As part of the Chesapeake Gateways Network, the park gives public access to the James River and highlights the connection between inland waterways and bay health. Visit the park’s website for details on programs, trails, and visitor activities.
This location does not accept the America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. Entrance fees and ticket policies are set independently by the managing partner, as detailed on their website.