James River State Park

This beautiful spot on the James River, a short 1.5 hours from Richmond, was the perfect location for a Halloween camping weekend with friends. Campers at James River State Park went all out for Halloween with decorated tick-or-treat tables and carnival games at their campsites, as well as an informal custom parade around Red Oak loop.

The perfect crisp weather, the lovely scenery, the fall holiday fun, and the wonderful company of friends made for a great getaway.

A return trip is scheduled for the summertime, as there is much to do in that season as well. Think tubing!

Fast Facts (and Opinions)

Location: James River State Park - Gladstone, VA

Equipment: Pop-Up

Date: October 2020

Weather: Sunny and cold

Kid-Friendly: Yes (ours were ages 8 and 6)

Dog-Friendly: Yes

Site: 23 (our friends had site 24)

Water/Electric
Back-in
Gravel
Level
Shaded
Spacious
Many trees
Not very close to bathhouse

Bathhouse:

Very nice
External shower rooms

Cell Service: No (Verizon)

Park Highlights:

James River
- Boating and tubing during a warmer time
- Fishing
International Dark Sky Park
Visitor Center
- Nice visitor center and nearby playground

Area Highlights:

None that we explored

Park Hikes:

Tye River Overlook via Dixon and Cabell Trail Loop - 3-mile loop
- Short, easy hike
- Great overlook of Tye River and James River

Area Hikes:

None that we explored

Other Campsites:

Most sites in Red Oak are nice and spacious
3 year-round primitive campgrounds and an equestrian campground
Other options: cabins, lodges

Things to Do Next Visit (Because There's Just Never Enough Time!):

Visit during the summer and enjoy the river
Hike more trails