Recently, I spent a day with family exploring the beautiful James River State Park in Gladstone, VA, just less than an hour from Lynchburg. It turned out to be a memorable adventure filled with nature, discovery, and fun. From the moment we arrived, the park’s natural beauty was captivating, and there was something for everyone to enjoy.

Our journey began at the James River itself, where we were greeted by serene waters and whirligig beetles dancing on the surface. This peaceful start set the tone for the rest of our day as we connected with nature in a truly special way.

After enjoying the river, we made our way to a nearby pond with a floating dock surrounded by lily pads. The dock was a unique experience—it floated gently on the water, offering a close-up view of the pond’s natural beauty. While exploring the area around the pond, we discovered a stream that was just off the path. The stream was accessible via a wooden walkway, adding an extra layer of adventure to our hike and allowing us to immerse ourselves further in the park’s tranquil environment.

Next, we visited the Visitor Center, where we encountered a park ranger named Gabby, who was a wealth of information. Gabby taught us about the park and the local ecosystem, sharing insights that deepened our appreciation for the natural surroundings. She also invited us to play a fun and educational game called Eco-Block Party, which is a version of Jenga with an ecological twist. The game highlights how the natural world is like a game of Jenga—when species are removed, the balance becomes increasingly unstable. It was engaging and interactive way to learn about the delicate balance of ecosystems, and it’s great for all ages.

The Visitor Center also featured an array of interactive exhibits that captivated both kids and adults alike. The center had displays of animal tracks, scat, and even allowed us to touch and smell various natural elements. The highlight was seeing live animals, including two snakes, a turtle, and several fish. One of the fish, a bluegill affectionately named “Gill,” swam confidently in his massive tank, capturing everyone’s attention with his lively presence. In another tank, a group of young fish—each named after different types of french fries—swam energetically, adding a playful touch to our visit.

We were also intrigued by the mounted displays of various animals native to the area. These included coyotes, foxes, bears, a screech owl, and an Eastern spotted skunk—an animal we had never seen before. The variety of wildlife on display provided a fascinating glimpse into the creatures that inhabit the park.

After our visit to the Visitor Center, we took a break to enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing our exploration. We then decided to check out some of the park’s cabins. The cabins were impressive, offering a glimpse into what it would be like to stay overnight in this tranquil setting. We found one cabin particularly fascinating, with its tall roof and spacious layout featuring eight bedrooms equipped with bunk beds and queen beds. It was easy to imagine returning with a larger group for an extended stay, exploring more of the park’s trails and water activities. For those considering a longer stay, James River State Park has a variety of accommodations, including cabins, campsites, and even primitive paddle-in sites along the river.

One of the unique features of James River State Park is its membership in the International Dark Sky Association. This designation makes the park an excellent destination for stargazers, with events specifically designed for those interested in astronomy. The park’s low light pollution provides an ideal setting for viewing the night sky, making it a perfect place for both amateur and experienced stargazers to connect with the cosmos.

James River State Park is also known for its access to the James River itself, where visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. The park provides several launch points along the river, making it easy for water enthusiasts to explore the gentle currents and scenic views. Whether you’re looking to paddle down the river or simply relax by its banks, the park offers an abundance of options for water-based recreation.

We spent about six hours at James River State Park, and the day flew by. It was a wonderful experience that left us eager to return and discover even more of what this beautiful park has to offer. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife, or just enjoying the great outdoors, James River State Park is a destination that promises adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

For more information about James River State Park, including details on accommodations, trail maps, and river activities, visit the Virginia State Parks website before planning your trip. Discover more local attractions on our Things to Do in Lynchburg, VA page.