James River State Park

Branch Pond Loop Trail

The Branch Pond Loop Trail is accessible from the Branch Trail and via the Cabell Trail connector. The loop is a .49 mile extension of the Branch Trail that follows the edge of Branch Pond affording the user many opportunities to view resident and migratory wildlife.

Blaze Color: Light Blue

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Branch Trail

The Branch Trail is a 2.44 mile, moderate difficulty, multi-use trail that forms a loop through the wooded hills on the western side of the park. The Branch Pond Loop Trail is a short extension of this trail that makes a complete loop around Branch Pond and connects the Branch Trail to the Cabell and CBR trails via a short connector. The Branch Trail is accessible from the Running Creek Trail, and the Cabell Trail. Portions of the Branch Trail are very steep and irregular so wear appropriate shoes and plan accordingly.

Blaze Color: Green

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Cabell Trail

The Cabell Trail is a 3.36 mile, moderate difficulty, multi use trail that makes a large loop through the park with a small number of manageable elevation changes. The trail takes hikers through wooded areas and grassy marshlands while linking together all of the trails in the park.

Blaze Color: Orange

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Dixon Landing Overlook

The Dixon Landing Overlook is accessible by way of a one-third mile, moderate difficulty multi-use trail that connects the Cabell Trail to Dixon's Landing by way of a steep switchback. The trail features an overlook at its highest point with a bench to rest upon and views of the James River.

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Dixon Trail

The Dixon Trail is a 1.29 mile, moderate difficulty, multi-use trail that is accessible near the general picnicking area, the main park road, the Cabell Trail, and the Running Creek Trail. Hikers on the Green Hill Pond Loop Trail may also access the trail via a short connector. The trail runs through grassy areas near the picnic ground before passing over a bridge and entering the woods. Near the river the trail is easy to navigate, however as the trail climbs, a considerable amount of steep terrain and tight switchbacks present several challenges. This trail is for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders, so when navigating the tighter spots along the trail, keep a wary eye for other users who are overtaking from behind or coming from the opposite direction.

Blaze Color: Red

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Green Hill Pond Loop Trail

The Green Hill Pond Loop Trail is a .37 mile, easy, paved, handicap accessible hiking trail that wraps around Green Hill Pond. It is located near picnic shelter 5 and may also be accessed from the Dixon Trail (not handicap accessible). The pond has a beautiful boardwalk over the water to fish from and several benches to rest and enjoy the scenery. A wetland impoundment below Green Hill Pond is a restoration project to restore vital wetland habitat for the James River Watershed. Many areas along the James River were previously timbered and drained to create pastures for cattle. Restoring this wetland provides erosion protection and valuable habitat for wildlife.

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

River Trail

The River Trail is a 3.06 mile, easy, multi-use trail that runs along the James River from near the livery area to Dixon's Landing. It is accessible from the Running Creek Trail, the Cabell trail, and from the roads that lead to the livery, Dixon's Landing, and the Green Hill Pond Area. It winds around several wetland areas formed by the local impoundments and many deer can be seen in these areas during early morning or late evening. This trail features numerous points of access to the river for fishing or launching a small boat.

Blaze Color: Blue

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Running Creek Trail

The Running Creek Trail is a 1.54 mile, moderate difficulty, multi-use trail that forms two connected loops along the parks southern edge. The trail is accessible from the Cabell, Branch, and River trails. The trail passes through the river flats and the wooded ravines that characterize the region. A connecting trail divides the loop in half at the midpoint, making a shorter hike possible. The portions of the trail closer to the river are generally broader and easier to negotiate with the trail narrowing and increasing in difficulty at higher elevations.

Blaze Color: Yellow

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Taylor Pond Loop Trail

This short, easy trail forms a short loop around Taylor Pond at the eastern end of the Taylor Trail. The loop is also accessible from the main park road near the Red Oak Campground.

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Taylor Trail

The Taylor Trail is a .69 mile, moderate difficulty, multi-use trial that is accessible from the main park road, the group horse camping area, and the connector trail that connects Cabell, River, and Running Creek Trails. At the eastern end the trail connects to the Taylor Pond Loop Trail. The Taylor Trail consists mostly of a narrow, single track through the woods, passing near the cabins, and features a connector trail that leads to an observation platform with views of the wetlands and the James River.

Blaze Color: White

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Tye River Overlook

The Tye River Overlook is reached via a moderate difficulty, .11 mile hiking trail that is accessible from the Cabell Trail in the northeast part of the park. It takes users through the wooded steep area to a platform that overlooks the confluence of the Tye River and the James River. Horses cannot go onto the platform and must be tied to the nearby hitches. A mounting block is provided at the western access point for the Cabell Trail to assist equestrians in re-mounting.

Usage:

View Video Tour | Get Video Tour QR Code
Download Trail Map | Get Trail Map QR Code

Amphitheater

A natural open air amphitheater exists just off of the main park road. The stage faces a hillside that naturally amplifies sound. The theater has grass seating for 500 overlooking the stage with a back drop of a wetland and surrounding James River hills. Restrooms and parking are located nearby.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.7143 -78° 49.0703

Picnic Area

There are picnic tables throughout the park.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 36.9175 -78° 49.0354

Picnic Shelter 2

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.0911 -78° 48.9427

Picnic Shelter 1

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.1541 -78° 48.8410

Branch Pond Campground

Located in a wooded area by Branch Pond, there are 7 secluded primitive campsites with tables and grills. A vault toilet is in the campground but there is no water. Drinking water can be found at different locations around the park. Reservations are highly recommended. Reservation Center 1-800-933-Park (7275).

• Season/Hours: Open year round/Check In 4:00 P.M. - Check Out: 3:00 P.M.
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.9983 -78° 47.8493

Canoe Landing Campground

Canoe Landing is the only campground on the river, with 13 tent sites along the river bank. A vault toilet is located in the campground and a water hydrant is at the entrance to the campground.There are also 5 individual horse campsites located in Canoe Landing Campground. The shaded sites are near Running Creek Trail. Tents and camping units up to 30 feet allowed, or one rig per site. Four covered and two open stalls are available for reservation through the Reservation Center only. Horses must be in a stall or on tether located near the campsite. One horse per stall. Please be sure to place manure in the provided manure bins.

• Season/Hours: Open Year Round/Check In: 4 P.M. Check Out: 3 P.M.
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 36.8325 -78° 48.9112

Red Oak Campground

The campground has 30 regular sites with water and electric hookups. A bathhouse with showers and laundry is located in the campground. The sites will hold up to 40' RV's. Tent pads on each site. The campground is located approximately 1 mile from the river. Reservations are not site specific. Firewood is available for sale in the campground.A camping lodge is located on the backside of the campground. The lodge holds a maximum of 14 people and parking for five vehicles. A two-night minimum stay is required. Restroom facilities are available in Red Oak Campground, about 75 yards from the camping lodge. Reservations are highly recommended. Reservation Center 1-800-933-Park (7275).

• Season/Hours: March 1 through the 1st Monday in December/Check In: 4 P.M. Check Out: 3 P.M.
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.5633 -78° 48.7283

Dixon Boat Landing

This park has a trailer boat launch at Dixon Landing.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 38.0898 -78° 48.6775

James River Outdoor Adventures Canoe Livery

On the beautiful James River in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, James River State Park Outdoor Adventures offers complete canoe livery services. Spend a day on the river, or bring your camping gear and enjoy several fun filled days. (Camping reservations are highly recommended - call 1-800-933-PARK.). The livery rents canoes, kayaks, tubes and mountain bikes and they organize float trips along the river. The livery campstore also sells last minute supplies and snacks.

• Season/Hours: Spring Summer/Call Livery: (434) 933-8682
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 36.9211 -78° 48.9869

Cabins and Lodges

Fourteen two bedroom cabins, two 3 bedroom cabins, and two 6 bedroom lodges with all the modern conveniences, linens, appliances, dishes and cookware. Televisions and phones are not provided. Weekly rentals are required for these facilities during prime season and start on Saturday or Sunday. There are no extra bed rentals. A two-night minimum stay is required the rest of the year, however in prime season guests who wish to stay less than a week may call 30 days prior to the desired arrival date to see if there is vacancy for two-night minimum stay. Cabins and lodges are open year-round and can be reserved 11 months in advance. Reservations are highly recommended. Reservation Center 1-800-933-Park (7275).

• Season/Hours: All Year/Check In: 3 P.M. - Check Out: 10 A.M.
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.308 -78° 48.872

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center features permanent exhibits including a large river aquarium, replica bateau, and information on the history of the local area. Park offices and a gift shop are located in the visitor center.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.8327 -78° 48.8360

Group Camping Area

There is one group site for up to 42 people - no hookups, tents only. The campsite is near a restroom and features a fire-ring with a flip grill, five picnic tables and a pedestal grill. Reservations are highly recommended for all campsites. Reservation Center 1-800-933-Park (7275).

• Season/Hours: Year Round/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.0233 -78° 48.8650

Branch Pond Fishing Area

The James River and the parks 3 ponds; Taylor Pond, Green Hill Pond, and Branch Pond all offer freshwater fishing to visitors. Those planning to fish must have a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license and must be mindful of the limits regarding size and quantity of certain fish that they catch.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.946 -78° 47.805

Horse Primitive Camping

Sites are shaded and near Running Creek Trail. Four covered and two open stalls are available for rent. Tents, pop-ups and RVs up to 30 feet in length allowed on the sites but only one rig is permitted per site. Horses must be in a stall or on a tether pole across from the campsites. There is access to a water spigot near the campsites,. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring. A vault toilet is a short walk from the camp. Riders recommend off loading a supply of horse water and hay at the barn before settling into your campsite. These individual sites must be reserved by calling the reservation line rather than using the on-line reservation system. Camping sites and stalls are reserved separately so be sure to specify how many of each you need when making your reservation.

• Season/Hours: Season: Open Year Round/Call Park (434) 933-4355
• Location:37° 37.3849 -78° 48.6150

Horseshoe Campground

The campground features 10 pull-through sites with water and electric hookups, twenty covered stalls, and easy access to the trail system. Horses must be in a stall; one horse per stall. A bathhouse is located at the entrance to the campground for all James River State Park campers to use. Large group use of Horseshoe campground can be arranged through a Special Use Permit by calling the park office. Please be sure to place manure in the provided manure bins. Reservations for this campground may be made by calling the Central Reservation Office at 1-800-933-PARK.

• Season/Hours: March 1st through 1st Monday in December/Check In 4:00 P.M. - Check Out: 3:00 P.M.
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.306 -78° 48.350

Canoe Landing

Cartop launch for canoes, kayaks and tubes.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park (434)933-4355
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 36.9142 -78° 49.0354

Green Hill Pond Fishing Area

The James River and the parks 3 ponds; Taylor Pond, Green Hill Pond, and Branch Pond all offer freshwater fishing to visitors. Those planning to fish must have a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license and must be mindful of the limits regarding size and quantity of certain fish that they catch.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park
• Location:37° 37.806 ?78° 48.969

Taylor Pond Fishing Area

The James River and the parks 3 ponds; Taylor Pond, Green Hill Pond, and Branch Pond all offer freshwater fishing to visitors. Those planning to fish must have a valid Virginia freshwater fishing license and must be mindful of the limits regarding size and quantity of certain fish that they catch.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Call Park
• Location:37° 37.456 -78° 48.649

Picnic Shelter 3

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.7419 -78° 48.8423

Picnic Shelter 4

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.7204 -78° 48.9296

Picnic Shelter 5

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.7928 -78° 48.9323

Picnic Shelter 6

There are 6 reservable picnic shelters throughout the park. They are all ADA accessible, seat approximately 75 people and are open air with a wooden roof and concrete floor. Grills, restrooms, and drinkable water are located nearby most of them. In addition there is a slightly smaller picnic shelter in the Branch Pond area that has a chimney and outdoor fireplace.

• Season/Hours: All Year/Full Day
• Fee: Park Fees
• Location:37° 37.9709 -78° 48.7498