Camping near Glen Allen, Virginia offers access to parks with varying terrain from forested areas to river frontage. The region sits at a relatively low elevation averaging 217 feet above sea level, creating a landscape characterized by gentle hills and waterways rather than mountains. Most campgrounds within 30 miles of Glen Allen remain open year-round, though water systems may be winterized from November through March.
What to do
Biking trails at Pocahontas State Park: Located about 20 miles from Glen Allen, the park features mountain biking trails rated for various skill levels. "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," notes reviewer Gregg S. about Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Fishing and boating: Multiple campgrounds provide water access for anglers. "Lots of trails, nature center, pool, and creek for kayaking and fishing. You can also rent water equipment while you're there. Very good for beginners," says Samantha G. about the opportunities at Pocahontas State Park.
Historical exploration: The region offers numerous historical sites within driving distance of campgrounds. At Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA, visitors can easily access Fredericksburg's Civil War sites. "Within thirty minutes of fredericksburg. At this k o a everything was clean and organized... In fredericksburg be sure to do the trolley tour," suggests reviewer John L.
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: Many campers appreciate parks with adequate distance between camping spots. At Powhatan State Park Campground, "Sites are spaced well and still very close to everything. Very bike friendly and lots of trails. Large playground and a good boat launch for tubes and kayaks," according to Isaac R.
Clean facilities: Modern bathhouses rank high on campers' priority lists. "Well laid out sites, clean restrooms and showers," notes Glenn T. about his experience at Pocahontas State Park.
Convenience to urban amenities: Camping near Glen Allen provides access to both nature and city conveniences. "Great state park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. 20 mins from every store you can imagine, but super quiet at night. Sites are well spaced," shares Ashley I. about Pocahontas State Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially for weekend stays. "We picked Americamps because we were traveling through the Richmond area and it was very convenient to I-95. We usually pass up on RV parks because most are wide open fields with large trailers and/or motor homes parked close together and prefer more private camp spots in out teardrop. But upon our arrival we were happily surprised," reports Steve V. about Americamps RV Resort.
Limited primitive options: True backcountry camping is scarce near Glen Allen. "This campground is definitely for trail bikers and RVers. The campsites fill up quickly. If you do not reserve your spot early, you may be placed near the road, where traffic is an issue," warns Emmely B. about Powhatan State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Pool facilities typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day. During shoulder seasons, expect variable amenities. "Staff is friendly and helpful, site was a little tight and we don't have a big camper, squeezed between 2 trees, lake is not much to look at husband was gonna go fishing but it was really hot out, there pools not open yet," explains Mary P. about her June visit to Fredericksburg KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated recreation areas. "Kid focused park. Lots of activities. Great setting. Nice sites. Very wooded. Big pond. Great store," says James P. about Fredericksburg KOA.
Swimming options: Pool facilities provide relief during hot summer months. "Clean and huge campsites, great pool, great hiking and biking trails," notes Dustin F. about Pocahontas State Park.
Educational opportunities: Many parks offer junior ranger programs or nature centers. "Staff were wonderful, huge place that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily. Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one. Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground, a store with a nature center, and a Junior Ranger program for the kids," shares Lisa P. about Powhatan State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers recommend researching specific sites before booking. "Our site was at the back of the farm and was nice with a stone patio and everything is in waking distance," reports Michaela about Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at state parks but common at private campgrounds. "Great RV Resort. We picked Americamps because we were traveling through the Richmond area and it was very convenient to I-95... All the sites were level, most were gravel, but some were concrete pads. All style sites include a picnic table and fire ring. Hook ups also included cable with about 70 channels," explains reviewer Steve V.
Site leveling: Prepare for varied terrain at some campgrounds. "Booked last minute on a Wednesday night they had two openings. Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers. Nice privacy. Large Bath house dump stations were great. Some sites were very level. We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel," notes Jim L. about his experience at Powhatan State Park.
