Russell Johnson has been more than a Park Manager and law enforcement officer at York River State Park, he has been a friend to everyone who has stepped foot in our 2,550 acres. 

Russell's careful planning has paid off for York River

Russell returned to York River in 2005 (he served as a chief ranger from 1992 to 1995) and has worked hard to help transform the park. Perhaps the most significant accomplishment was to help establish the Friends of York River State Park.  With this fine group of volunteers, we have funded archeological research, playground construction. Our staff and other volunteers have re-opened trails and added new and longer routes.  Under his leadership, York River has become a primary destination for outdoor activities in the Williamsburg area and beyond.

Leading last minute fossil hunters to the beach

More importantly than success in park attendance or improvements in our physical resources, Russell has made many friends at the park.  He enjoys meeting first time guest and regular visitors.  The Friends group are really his friends.  His fairness and sense of humor encouraged the staff to come up with new ideas and give our best to the park.

Sharing a joke with Ranger Scott Pearson

Russell will be leaving after Estuaries Day (Saturday, August 24th) to begin his new managerial assignment at James River State Park.  We are grateful for his service to York River and wish him the best.

Good-bye to a good ranger and friend

Directions to James River State Park:  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.

Its address is 104 Green Hill Drive, Gladstone, VA 24553; Latitude, 37.623271. Longitude, -78.809896.

• From Richmond, travel west on Rt. 60 towards Amherst for about 95 miles. Turn right onto Rt. 605 (Riverside Dr.), and go 7 miles to the park entrance on the left.
• From Lynchburg, travel east on 460 to Appomattox. Take the Rt. 26 exit (Business 460). Turn left at stop light onto Rt. 26 (Oakville Rd.). Continue about 12 miles to stop sign at Rt. 60 and go straight across Rt. 60 onto Rt. 605 (Riverside Dr.). Continue 7 miles to the park entrance on left.
• From Charlottesville, travel south on Rt. 29 and take the Rt. 60 east exit in Amherst. Travel 15 miles, then turn left on Rt. 605 (Riverside Drive). Go 7 miles and turn left at park entrance.
• From Farmville, travel Rt. 15 north to Dillwyn, Sprouses Corner. Turn left onto Rt. 60 west and continue for about 25 miles. Turn right on Rt. 605 (Riverside Dr.) and go about 7 miles to park entrance on left.

Directions to York River State Park:  From I-64, take the Croaker Exit 231B. Go north on Route 607 (Croaker Rd.) for one mile, then right on Route 606 (Riverview Rd.) about one and a half miles to the park entrance. Take a left turn into the park.