Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Fishing FUNdamentals at Kids Love Parks Fair

Location of James River State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Green Hill Pond: 185 Green Hill Dr; Gladstone, VA 24553
Main Park Address: James River State Park, 104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553.

When

May 16, 2026. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Cast into one of our most popular outdoor pastimes with Fishing Fundamentals, a hands-on introduction perfect for new anglers and curious kids. Our rangers will guide you through the basics, how to choose and tie on your hook and tackle, how to handle your gear, and how to cast your line with confidence. Once you’ve learned the essentials, we’ll head down to the lake to try our luck and see who’s biting!

We’ll provide the rods, reels, and bait; all you need to bring is your sense of adventure. For comfort and safety, we recommend bringing water, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and bug spray.

Come spend some time by the water, learn a new skill, and enjoy the simple fun of fishing at the Kids Love Parks Fair!

A license is required to fish in Virginia if you are 16 or older. Licenses are available for purchase online HERE and in most stores that sell fishing gear. Park guests with no license are welcome to attend but will not be able to fish.

Registration is required and space is limited. Please call (434) 933-8527 or email Tess.Himelspach@dcr.virginia.gov to register.

Please meet at Green Hill Pond. 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.

photo of kids fishing along lake shore

About National Kids to Parks Day

Virginia State Parks celebrates National Kids to Parks Day on the third Saturday in May by offering a variety of fun, family-friendly activities, from nature scavenger hunts and ranger-led hikes to fishing clinics and flora and fauna wagon rides. This annual event encourages kids to explore the outdoors while learning about wildlife and engaging in hands-on environmental education.

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