Enjoy the James

Participate in JRA activities

Register for the Runoff Rundown

Held the second Saturday of every July, river enthusiasts from across Virginia will paddle, boat, tube, sail or otherwise cover small sections of the James River such that, taken in concert, the entire length of the James River – all 340-miles – will be traversed in one day. Get more information - www.runoffrundown.com

Paddle with your group

This summer explore the waters of the James River by canoe,on the John Smith Water Trail. Participants will follow the footsteps of Captain John Smith himself and discover how the land, river and wildlife would have looked 400 years ago. How have things changed since? Depart location: Deep Bottom Park, Henrico County. Maximum of 25 people per trip. Fee: $150. Create a meaningful experience for a child you know. To schedule, call Gabe Silver at (804) 788-8811 ext 204.

Stay safe on the James

The James River is a wonderful destination for recreation and enjoyment. Each year, thousands if not millions of Virginians go to the James to boat, fish, swim, hike or just take in the beautiful scenery. However, like anything in life, accidents and illnesses can occur.  Stay safe on the James

Create your own opportunities

Take the Challenge

At least 1,400 different climbers have climbed Mr. Everest...just a handful of people have paddled the entire length of the James River. Follow in the ripples of Andy Lee, Earl Swift, Ryan Williamson, Marty Cash, and Russ Starke and take the Full James River Rundown challenge. >>

Bill Street, JRA Exective Director, presents Marty Cash and Russ Starke with the Full James River Rundown Certificate

Plan an overnight Camping trip

Enjoy an Overnight camping trip on the James this summer. For more information on planning a trip. >>

Fish the James

Author and avid fisherman, John Bryan, shares a short lesson on fishing the James River. >>

Get your Resources

View our links to great organizations and outfitters for more information for your trip >>. Get up to date river data before you get out on the water >>. Need a map? Check out the ones we offer >>.

Get involved

Get your whole family or organization involved in these great projects >>. Or view our upcoming volunteer opportunites >>. If there are no current opportunities plan your own and let us know about it!

James River watershed rankings on Best of Blue Ridge Outdoors Lists:

#4 Best Wilderness - Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness Area, Jefferson National Forest
#1 Class 1 Rapid - Eagle Rock to Horseshoe Bend
#2 Best Waterfall - Crabtree Falls, George Washington National Forest
#1 Best Urban Whitewater - James River, Richmond
#3 Best Day Hike - Roaring Run, Jefferson National Forest
#2 Best Running Trail - Three Ridges/ The Priest, Lynchburg
#4 Best Trail Race - James River Scramble, Richmond
Top ten swimming holes in the Southeast - 
                Roaring Run, Jefferson National Forest
                Crabtree Falls, George Washington National Forest