Last updated: October 29, 2020
Place
James River Picnic Area
![Lush green grass beside a sprawling, calm river, two people on a blanket relax under a shade tree.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/2ABD127A-C1F4-3EA0-AD01B63CBE1A5EA2.jpg?width=1600&quality=90&mode=crop)
NPS Photo
Benches/Seating, Cellular Signal, Grill, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information Kiosk/Bulletin Board, Parking - Auto, Parking - Bus/RV, Picnic Table, Restroom - Seasonal, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Flush, Trailhead, Trash/Litter Receptacles
Sitting at the lowest elevation on the Blue Ridge Parkway, the James River Picnic Area provides shaded, riverside dining on the steep banks of the James River. Spread over a half an acre, you can find a table and grill to share a meal and some time with your family and friends.
Popular activities including: fishing, socializing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Families enjoy completing the Kids in Parks TRACK trail brochures. Due to the low elevation and nearby river habitat the picnic area is home to many species of plants and animals found few other places on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Keep your eyes out for river otters, bald eagles, turtles, cormorants, muskrats, and other aquatic animals. Three trails depart from here, including the 0.4 mile Canal Loop, 0.5 mile Trail of Trees loop, and the 3.3 mile (one way) Otter Creek Trail. The nearby James River Visitor Center has restrooms, but no potable water.