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Camping

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Eagle Nest Lookout

Eagle Nest Lookout, near Charles City, Virginia, is a unique spot for those who enjoy a more rugged camping experience. This area is perfect for primitive camping, offering a chance to immerse yourself in nature without the distractions of modern amenities.

The location boasts stunning views of the Chickahominy River, making it a great place for fishing and hiking. Campers have noted the scenic beauty, with one reviewer mentioning, “The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River.” While you won't find restrooms or drinking water here, the natural surroundings and the opportunity to connect with the outdoors make it worthwhile.

Visitors have shared their experiences of camping right by the water, with some even managing to catch impressive fish. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere, as this spot can get busy, especially with fishing activity. As one camper pointed out, “It’s a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people fishing left.”

If you're looking for a place to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors, Eagle Nest Lookout offers a blend of adventure and tranquility. Just remember to pack out what you pack in, and enjoy the beauty of this natural setting.

Description

Fish and Wildlife Service

To camp on Virginia Wildlife Management Area, you must register on the Go Outdoors Virginia Website: https://gooutdoorsvirginia.com/

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Location

Eagle Nest Lookout is located in Virginia

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

37.31683948 N
76.88104367 W

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Access

  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Available
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Eagle Nest Lookout needs a permit.

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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4 Reviews

Reviewed Feb. 29, 2024

Drone fishing in the rain

It is a great shame that people would desecrate such a beautiful area with trash and a blatant disregard for others! We arrived and set up camp around 3pm. There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this are in which we picked up. Apparently this is a well used fishing location seen by the debris that was left and the still smoldering prone laying barrel fire unfortunately. Around 9pm we were graced with some visitors. To my dismay the individuals deployed a large fishing drone. I was in disbelief at the blatant disregard and disrespect that this man showed knowing that we were camping the within 30ft of their fishing expedition! This man and woman did this for several hours in the rain with their vehicle lights on. In the morning we discovered that the two had the nerve to also left there chic felt and fishing trash on the ground. What a shame and disgrace! Of course we police the location and made right.

Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S., February 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S., February 29, 2024
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Reviewed Feb. 29, 2024

Shooting range and generator blues

We stayed down by the boat ramp. There are basically two parking or camping spot closest to the ramp partitioned by some rail timbers. A large was camped out in the First section closest to the boat ramp area. There weren't very hospitable to say the least. One releaved him self at his truck on the side We were on and moved on the side with the larger group of cars ,truck and campers. To add insult to injury this group ran their generators up until 4:30 am. Very uncool and inconsiderate. Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping. There are other areas though. The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place to for hiking.

Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S., February 29, 2024
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S., February 29, 2024
Reviewed Feb. 18, 2024

Winter Car Camping

Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river. Used by fisherman shore fishing and unfortunately Trash was present but we walked around and picked up. Fire pit at shore pull in site and I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed. If your looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area. Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people Fishing left. If you are fishing, the pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass. Next morning we explored a trail in the area then headed out. Helpful hint: This is the spot by the water. There was confusion because the other site on this app just takes you near the gun range and it is not by the water.

Siteeagles lookout
Month of VisitFebruary
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Kevin F., February 18, 2024
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Kevin F., February 18, 2024
  • Review photo of Eagle Nest Lookout by Kevin F., February 18, 2024
Reviewed Dec. 13, 2021

Huck Fin Delight

This is in the Chickahominy WMA on the far end and along the James River. There are 5,217 acres in Charles City County, Virginia. Mainly forested in the coastal plains of tidewater, Virginia. There are no established campgrounds but you can primitive camp. This campsite is exceptional for those that like to primitive camp. You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to a small knoll. At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River. You are able to park down below and carry your gear the short distance. No water, no toilet, Pack it in, Pack it out. LNT. There is a fire ring and a fire pit. The ground is well tamped down. Please take care of the amazing spot. There is a boat ramp of sorts just below the campsite. 37.316858-76.881031 

Pack it in, Pack it out

LNT 

Travel safe

Month of VisitDecember

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Eagle Nest Lookout?

    Eagle Nest Lookout is located at 9 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Eagle Nest Lookout?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Eagle Nest Lookout, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.