Riverbank Clean-Up

The health of the Chesapeake Bay begins right here along the beautiful James River — and we need your help to protect it! Join us at James River State Park for a special riverfront cleanup as part of Clean the Bay Day. Removing litter along the James keeps it from traveling downstream to the Bay. Come ready to make a difference, enjoy the river, and help protect the Chesapeake Bay, starting right here at James River State Park!

Compete for prizes! Prizes will be given out to the person/group that collects the most litter! Let the beautification begin!

Meet at the Canoe Landing to check in, grab gloves, and pick up trash bags before heading out to restore our shoreline. Volunteers will work along the riverbanks, trails, and access areas to keep our waterways healthy and thriving.

Parking fee is waived for all volunteers. Please register as a volunteer with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation ahead of time, if possible. On site registration will also be available.

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.

About Clean the Bay Day

Each year Virginia State Parks participates in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Clean the Bay Day, an event dedicated to protecting and preserving the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Park visitors are invited to join a clean-up to help remove litter, debris and pollution from rivers, streams and shorelines that feed into the Bay, contributing to the health of the Bay’s ecosystem and ensuring cleaner water and safer habitats for wildlife. 

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