James River Park

Richmond's Natural Playground

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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.

Today in the Park

BROUGHT TO YOU BY RIVERSIDE OUTFITTERS

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.

River Level

Check the James River levels from the Westham Gauge before your trip

Tides

The River below Richmond is affected by ocean tides

Trail Conditions

Find out if it's too muddy to bike or hike today

Weather

Plan for sun and fun, and prepare for potential rain

Calendar

See what's happening in & around the Park

BD Ticket Purchase
Play Video about BD Ticket Purchase

DISCOVER THE JAMES RIVER PARK

This 600-acre urban oasis is a pristine bit of wilderness in the heart off Richmond.

News from the park

  • “Leave No Trace” is About More Than Trash

    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.

  • Nothing Royal about Invasive Trees

    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.

  • Meet our Newest ParkStar: Aimee Bushman!

    For Aimee, becoming our newest ParkStar as the James River Park System’s Park Ranger Supervisor represents a sort of homecoming.

  • Slithery Park Friends

    Recently someone shared a picture with me of a snake they encountered in the Park. They can be scary, and for the most part, I think that fear is rooted in a lack of knowledge.

  • Park Improvements and Updates

    We recently hit some important milestones in our work to preserve, protect and enhance the Park!

    James River Park Live Cams

    Choose your next adventure

    Get Involved

    About the Park

    Volunteer

    Education

    Meet Our Latest Parkstars

    Every month the Friends of James River Park features an individual, recognizing them for their outstanding contributions to the park and the organization. These are our ParkStars.

    Explore the Park

    Report an Issue Form

    To report an emergency please call 911 immediately. Please use this form to report an issue in the Park such as maintenance or trail issues. Thank you.

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