Shared by Renee' Coyner, marketing intern, as Guest Blogger.

How in the world do you pull a seven year old away from an exciting video game that seemingly offers endless possibilities?

James River State Park offers a quick and easy fix by providing a great alternative to video games, allowing children to get active and use their imaginations!

Kids can have fun serving a pretend meal from the wonderful, all natural “wood stove.”

Resting among the trees at James River State Park the Kids Discovery Area awaits the arrival of children of all ages. Containing a plethora of interactive stations for children to explore, there is sure to be something that will interest your children and provide exercise for their bodies and minds.

Allow your kids to jump from stump to stump and try not to fall into the "quick sand below!”

The Kids Discovery Area came from an idea from a Park Ranger at James River State Park when he took his kids to a natural play area in Lexington. From there an idea became reality. Construction and even some of the design work was done by college students who devoted their Spring Break to helping out James River State Park.

Play along to the harmony of the woods

It’s the 21^st century and technology is lurking around every corner. This poses a problem when trying to get kids back in touch with nature - you know "being active and getting outside."  

Build a fort with life-size Lincoln Logs

The Kids Discovery Area, unique to anything you’ve probably ever seen before is made completely of natural materials and can provide hours of entertainment for you and the kids!

Pump some water and make creative art in the sand

Enjoy a "tea party" in the woods

This is another featured article about our Park of the Month, James River State Park.

LOCATION: Buckingham County. From U.S. 60 West, turn right onto Route 605 (Riverside Dr.) at the James River Bridge. Travel seven miles, then turn left onto Route 606.

For general park information click here, contact the park office at 434-933-4355 or e-mail James River State Park.  James River is located at 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone, VA 24553. 

For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to make reservations in one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or click here.