The Upper James River watershed is a wonderful summer destination, offering everything from relaxing river floats to rewarding hikes to waterfalls. Whether you want to cool off at a river access point, paddle a calm stretch, or take in a dramatic waterfall view, this portion of the watershed has plenty to offer.
Inspired by Lynchburg Living’s feature “Swim, Float, Wander,” here are six fantastic spots in the Upper James to explore this summer.
James River State Park – Gladstone
Nestled along the banks of the James River, the James River State Park is a paradise for water lovers and hikers alike. You can spend a sunny afternoon kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding along calm stretches of the James. Fishing from the shore is also popular, with great spots to catch bass, catfish, and sunfish.
After a day on the water, stick around until dusk. As an officially designated International Dark Sky Park, it is an exceptional location for stargazing, especially after an evening spent by the water.
Otter Creek – Blue Ridge Parkway
Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway (near Milepost 60), Otter Creek provides a quiet, shaded retreat. Cool, clear waters make it a pleasant place for wading and skipping rocks on a warm afternoon.
Bring a picnic and enjoy it under the shade of towering trees, or lace up your hiking boots to explore the scenic trails that wind along the creek’s banks. Kids and adults alike love wading in the shallow pools, while the gentle sound of rushing water creates a peaceful backdrop for relaxation.
Falling Spring Falls – Alleghany County
Tucked away in Alleghany County just off Route 220, Falling Spring Falls is a roadside gem that feels almost too beautiful to be real. Standing 80 feet tall, this cascade pours over a travertine cliff into the valley below, surrounded by lush greenery and a mist that cools the air, perfect for beating the summer heat.
Unlike many waterfalls that require miles of hiking, Falling Spring Falls features a convenient overlook located just steps from the parking area. It is an ideal stop for families, photographers, and travelers taking scenic drives. The viewing area is just steps from the road, but the real magic happens when you linger, especially after a rainfall, when the water roars with extra force and the mist rises like a veil.
To protect this fragile natural landmark and ensure visitor safety, viewing is restricted to the official overlook platform. Swimming, wading, and climbing down to the base are strictly prohibited. Please respect all posted signage and enjoy the view safely from above.
Crabtree Falls – Nelson County
Crabtree Falls in Nelson County is famous for being one of the tallest cascading waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, a must-visit for hikers and nature lovers alike. A 3.3-mile out-and-back trail follows the water, offering multiple wooden overlooks and platforms to view the dramatic drop. As you climb, the trail rewards you with views of the cascades alongside surrounding mountain vistas. The experience is especially magical after rainfall, when the falls are at their most powerful and the mist fills the air.
The rocks around Crabtree Falls are coated with clear, naturally occurring algae that makes them extraordinarily slippery. For your safety, stay on the designated trail and behind wooden railings at all times. Leaving the trail or climbing on rocks near the falls is extremely dangerous.
Douthat State Park – Millboro
Douthat State Park in the Alleghany Mountains combines outdoor recreation with rich history. Established in 1936 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the park offers a glimpse into Virginia’s early state park system.
Visitors can spend the day fishing or swimming at Douthat Lake, exploring over 40 miles of hiking trails, or enjoying a shaded picnic. With playgrounds, boat rentals, and scenic mountain views, Douthat remains a classic destination for families across the watershed, while history buffs appreciate the park’s role in shaping Virginia’s State Park System.
Natural Bridge State Park & Cedar Creek Trail – Natural Bridge
Natural Bridge State Park offers a memorable walk through history and geology. The Cedar Creek Trail guides through a lush forest, guiding you alongside a gentle creek before revealing the park’s crown jewel: the magnificent 215-foot natural limestone arch, Virginia’s most memorable landmarks. Further along the trail shows the Saltpeter Cave, the Lost River, and the 50-foot cascading Lace Falls
If you are looking to extend your outing in the area, nearby local spots like Panther Falls (located in the surrounding George Washington National Forest) offer popular places for swimming and cooling off.
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Explore Responsibly
The Upper James watershed is packed with natural beauty and places to connect with nature. As you explore these destinations, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, keep pets leashed where required, and treat our public lands with care.
For more travel tips and Upper James inspiration, check out the original article in Lynchburg Living. Happy exploring!