Within the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area, Eagle Nest Lookout provides free dispersed camping along the James River. Managed by the VA Department of Wildlife Resources, this hike-in site requires campers to carry gear from the road down to waterfront camping areas. The main site sits just feet from the water, with an additional elevated tent spot on a small knoll overlooking the river.
Anglers frequent this location for shore fishing, with recent catches including bass and larger fish pulled from the river using fishing drones. The shoreline camping area accommodates car camping close to the water, while a fire pit provides warmth for evening gatherings. Campers often collect firewood from the surrounding area to fuel their fires through the night.
"This is the spot by the water," notes Kevin F., helping distinguish it from other sites in the area that lack water access. The location sees regular fishing activity during the day, though it typically quiets down by evening. Visitors consistently mention trash left by previous users, requiring some cleanup upon arrival. Cell service remains available throughout the site.
Pack all gear in and out, as no facilities exist on-site. The narrow path from the road requires a short walk to reach the camping areas.
Description
To camp on Virginia Wildlife Management Area, you must register on the Go Outdoors Virginia Website: https://gooutdoorsvirginia.com/
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsEagle Nest Lookout is located in Virginia near Norge
Coordinates
37.31683948 N
76.88104367 W
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GGood CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 5/17/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Phone Service
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
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.
Drive Time
- 57 min from Richmond, VA
- 2 hrs 40 min from Lexington Park, MD















