Exploring the James River

How do you River?

You can hike it, bike it, swim it, run it or raft it.

How you enjoy the James River is up to you.

Here are some resources to help connect you with your river.

How is the river in your area?

Many portions of the James River and tributaries are currently impaired due to excessive harmful bacteria. And for those who swim or recreate in the River, bacteria is an invisible pollutant that can pose serious health threats.

James River Watch website

We have a team of volunteers that take weekly water samples and report their findings to the James River Watch. Every Friday, from Memorial Day to Labor day, check the James River Watch for water conditions in your area.

Check your river conditions

From the Marsh: Intro to Saltmarshes

by | July 8, 2019 | Conservation Tips, News, Watershed Restoration, Wildlife of the James | 0 Comments

Welcome to the saltmarsh, one of the most dynamic habitats in the James River Watershed! Here, salty water from the Atlantic Ocean meets freshwater from the James River and its tributaries. Plants and animals that call the saltmarsh home have to deal with constantly...
Read More

Teacher Appreciation Week

by | May 10, 2019 | Community Conservation, Education, News | 0 Comments

It is Teacher Appreciation Week! While we appreciate our teachers every day, this is the week set aside to recognize the impact they have on the lives of millions of children every day. We honor the teachers who play an important role in our children’s...
Read More

Richmond City Council’s Consensus Budget Supports a Healthy and Accessible River

by | April 30, 2019 | Advocacy, Community Conservation, News | 0 Comments

After numerous budget review and work sessions that began following the presentation of Mayor Stoney’s proposed budget last month, Richmond’s City Council reached a consensus on the FY 2020 budget Monday afternoon. The good news is the budget...
Read More

April Conservation Tips: Vernal Pools

by | April 23, 2019 | Conservation Tips, News, Wildlife of the James | 0 Comments

Have you ever ventured into the woods after a rainy spring day and found what appears to be a new pond? You may have discovered one of the most exciting, albeit temporary, habitats in Virginia!Known as vernal pools, these ephemeral bodies of water appear...
Read More

Prothonotary Warbler

by | March 25, 2019 | Conservation Tips, News, Wildlife of the James | 0 Comments

With warm weather approaching, you are likely to see one of the most beautiful spring and summer residents of the James River Watershed, the prothonotary warbler!Also known as the canary of the swamp, this gorgeous bird makes its home in wetlands, and...
Read More

James River Maps

Stay Safe on the James

Camping on the James

Upcoming Opportunities

Explore the river with Terrain 360

Through a partnership with Terrain360 and The Tomato Fund, you can explore the entire 340-mile length of the James River through high-resolution, 360-degree panoramic images. This website is a great resource for scouting out the river before you travel, or for armchair exploring!