I love a bench with a great view 

Green Hill Pond Trail at James River State Park (bench is on the right)

At the root of this is the fact that for more than a decade I have had problems walking for any distance. I know that I am not alone and I have decided to do a series on ways to enjoy our Virginia State Parks if you have similar challenges - whether you are wheelchair bound, walk with a cane or other assistance device or just can't walk very far. We work very hard to make our parks barrier free as much as possible. Some of our parks offer special programs to reach out to those that have mobility challenges.

Green Pond Trail Fishing

James River State Park is one of my favorite parks (so okay I have 36 favorite parks). The first time you head to the park, you may think you have left civilization. If you are following directions from your GPS unit, that could actually be the case. I highly recommend that you use the Google Map and directions I am including at the bottom of this article. Even if you know where you are going, the first time you drive from Rt. 60 to the Park, you might worry that you have missed the turn to the park. It's only seven miles but seven miles can seem like a long drive when you aren't familiar with the area.

Green Hill Pond Trail

My favorite trail at James River State Park is the Green Hill Pond Trail. Why is it one of my favorite trails? The trail is paved, and most of it is a lovely boardwalk around and over the pond. It is great for fishing (don't forget your freshwater license). And, one of my favorite parts is the benches along the way to break up the walk and sit and enjoy the view. Enjoy this virtual tour of the trail.

For a map of this trail, click here (PDF). For a map of the park, click here (PDF). For a map of the trail system, click here (PDF).

Visitor Center

James River State Park has a lot more to offer including cabins (some accessible), camping, a seasonal canoe/kayak and tubing livery, and guided and self-guided programs. Their visitor center has exhibits on the local history and features a large aquarium and replica bateau.

Replica bateau and great view from the Visitor Center

The park is also home to Virginia State Parks' first children discovery area. Parents will be sure to love the mud pit, well the kids will love it. Did you know that playing in dirt is good for children? You might enjoy reading about it in this article.

Dirt + water pump = fun in the Discovery Area

Here's how to get there - remember don't trust your GPS unit! Click on "View Larger Map" in the map below and then click on Directions.

To make camping or cabin reservations, please call our Customer Service Center at 800-933-7275, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Or, you can book online any time.