We are citizen stewards of the James River Park. We provide ongoing support for conservation, enhancement, and recreational enjoyment of the James River Park, while protecting its natural and historic environments.
Know the river level before venturing into the James River. Life jackets are strongly recommended at all water levels due to swift currents, hazards, and unknown depths. River levels between 4 – 5.5ft are ideal for paddle sports, swimming, and other river recreation, while levels above 6ft are much more hazardous. Click on each icon to explore conditions and events in the Park today.
Check the James River levels from the Westham Gauge before your trip
The River below Richmond is affected by ocean tides
Find out if it's too muddy to bike or hike today
Plan for sun and fun, and prepare for potential rain
See what's happening in & around the Park
DISCOVER THE JAMES RIVER PARK
This 600-acre urban oasis is a pristine bit of wilderness in the heart off Richmond.
This year we worked with nearly 60 different corporate groups to bring in more than 800 volunteers to help clean up litter, paint over graffiti, work on landscaping, and complete other projects in the Park.
Kevin Tobin, Owner of Passages Adventure Camp, shares some words about the Park, the Wood River Run, and the impact we have on kids.
Our inaugural Camera to Canvas was a huge success, and two upcoming events will keep the Park love flowing!
More than once recently we have been made aware of incidents where people have been harvesting rocks directly out of the river, and from other areas of the Park for commercial/artistic use. This is damaging to the Park, and a prime example of inconsiderate Park use.
It took decades for over twenty Ailanthus altissima and Paulownia tomentosa trees to tower over Riverside Drive and Buttermilk Trail west of the 42nd Street entrance to the James River Park System. But it took just four days to take them down and prevent regrowth of these two invasive tree species.
Friends of the James River Park is a private, not-for-profit organization, and is tax exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Federal EIN (tax ID) number 26-3587880.
Friends of the James River Park
P.O. Box 4453
Richmond, VA 23220
friends@jamesriverpark.org