Stewardship Stroll

Location of James River State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Canoe Landing
Main Park Address: James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553.

When

Sept. 26, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Celebrate National Public Lands Day with a guided journey through the hidden world of James River State Park’s grasslands and the beauty of its riverfront. This family-friendly walk leads you through open meadows alive with birds, pollinators, and native wildflowers, then down along the scenic shoreline of the James River. Along the way, our interpreter will point out seasonal plants and wildlife, share fun ecological insights, and highlight how both grasslands and river ecosystems work together to support the park’s natural communities.

As part of our celebration of the trails that connect us to nature, participants will also have the opportunity to take part in trail stewardship through trash collection and corridor clearing. Gloves, bags, and loppers will be provided. Even a small effort makes a big difference in keeping our habitats healthy.

Enjoy fresh air, wide-open views, a peaceful stretch of the riverside, and a chance to give back to the park as you explore two vibrant habitats in one hike!

This hike will be approximately 2 miles long over mostly even terrain.

Please meet at Canoe Landing. All materials provided. Suitable for all ages. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the weather and bring a water bottle with you. Parks are for everyone, please let us know if you need special accommodation.

For more information, please call (434) 933-8527 or email Tess.Himelspach@dcr.virginia.gov.

Know Before You Go: Before your visit, find the most up to date health and safety information here.

Wildflowers in Grassland

About National Public Lands Day

Virginia State Parks celebrates National Public Lands Day each September by inviting volunteers and visitors to take part in the largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands in the country. Join in preserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the state’s public lands through a variety of hands-on activities, including trail maintenance, tree plantings, invasive species removal, litter clean-ups and educational programs on the importance of conservation. Parking fees are waived at most Virginia State Parks for National Public Lands Day (excludes Grayson Highlands and the admission fee at Natural Bridge and Southwest Virginia Museum).

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 434-933-4355
Email Address: JamesRiver@dcr.virginia.gov