Park News
Meet James River ParkStar Greg Velzy
In addition to being a Board Member for the Friends of James River Park, Greg Velzy the Founder of the James River Outdoor Coalition, Chair of the Falls of the James River, and more. Why is he so busy? Because his 50 years in Richmond have made him fall in love with our Park.
My 2019 in Review
Since I’ve arrived in Richmond, my window overlooking the James River has shown me many great things and I’ve seen the wonderful opportunities the City has to offer. This past year or so has certainly given me much to reflect upon.
Free a Tree!
February 23rd signals the beginning of National Invasive Species Awareness Week, and we have a variety of events through the Park for you to learn more or lend a hand. On that Sunday you can join us at Pony Pasture to learn more about invasive species.
UNANIMOUS Approval for the Park Master Plan!
I want to thank you for all the help you provided this past year and beyond in helping to shape the James River Park System Master Plan! Last night was the end of “Phase 1” with the official adoption of the Master Plan by City Council in a unanimous decision.
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The James River Park System
Owned by the City of Richmond, the JRPS is a public park in Richmond Virginia. The Friends are citizen stewards of the James River Park. We provide ongoing support for conservation, enhancement, and recreational enjoyment of the park, while protecting its natural and historic environments, in partnership with the City of Richmond Department of Parks & Recreation.
Volunteer & Give
Support the Park Master Plan
The FOJRP Board is underwriting the development of a 10-year Park Master Plan to protect the Park for future generations and to create a long-range unified vision moving forward. Read on »
Monthly Volunteer Opportunities
Each month (except in summer), the Friends meet at a park location to tackle a JRPS-directed project. And the Invasive Species Removal Task Force always needs an extra set of hands. Help out! »
Become a member
We are Park Strong! Join the Friends and we will work together with park staff and other park supporter organizations to promote, conserve and support the park. Join today! »
Watch & Listen
Audio Tours of the Park
Explore the secrets of the James River Parks’ unique geology – one exciting part of our Science in the Park section. The guided mobile audio tours are narrated by former James River Park Manager Emeritus Ralph White. Hit the trails! »
Discover & Play
Take a class with JRPS Education Staff. All of our programs seek to improve the quality of access to the Park’s unique ecology and recreational opportunities, and we offer programs throughout the year.
Environmental Science
Learn to identify flora and fauna, fish for the Big One, listen to bird calls, and explore the geologic history of the Fall Line. JRPS environmental education programs help students of all ages experience the Park’s wild places while getting to know the Park more deeply. Explore today! »
Adventure Recreation
Want to learn to navigate the Lower James by kayak? Climb to the top of Manchester Wall? Explore the Park’s trail systems by foot or by bike? JRPS educators emphasize front-country Leave No Trace ethics while seeking to give you an experience that will stoke your sense of adventure. Let’s play! »
Explore the Park
Each location has its own unique personality.
