Camping sites near Broad Run, Virginia offer diverse experiences from riverfront to woodland settings across central Virginia's rolling Piedmont region. With an average summer temperature of 85°F and moderate humidity, most campsites in this area sit at elevations between 200-400 feet above sea level. The camping season typically extends from April through October, with several parks maintaining year-round accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Lake Anna State Park, anglers can access multiple fishing piers with covered seating areas. "The fishing piers with ample sitting area" are highlighted by one visitor, who notes that "if you're looking for a relaxing fishing afternoon, they have some of the nicest fishing piers."
Trail exploration: Bear Creek Lake State Park offers several hiking options directly from campsites, including a trail circling the 40-acre lake. One visitor reports, "Powhatan Trail entrance is right off the loop and lovely, even in December," while another mentions they "enjoyed the easy, flat hike in the pretty forest around the lake."
Water recreation: Several parks provide lake-based activities beyond swimming. According to a camper at Americamps RV Resort, "Located 5 minutes from the James River, guests can hop over to the boat landing for fishing, swimming and boating." Another visitor at Pocahontas State Park mentions "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."
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: At Bear Creek Lake, the lake-view sites receive particular praise. As one camper explains, "We chose a reservable waterview site (#18)... I'm glad we had the beautiful view of the lake while camping, but didn't have to stress about the kids getting in the water the whole time." Another notes that "most of the site are RV accessible, but there are a few tent-only sites along the lake."
Campsite spacing: Powhatan State Park earns high marks for site separation. A visitor observed, "The sites in the River Bend Campground are private and wooded, especially this time of year when the trees are so full. The map makes it look like they're really close together so I was pleasantly surprised." Another camper appreciated that "the sites are gravel and include a picnic table, lantern/trash pole, and a fire pit with grill gate."
Natural settings: Several campgrounds preserve natural features around sites. At Cloverdale Farms, one visitor described "gently rolling hills, with a little creek amidst a couple acres of cleared, open, secluded woodland perfect for pitching a tent and listening to nature. Fields in the back lend a great view for star gazing and looking up at the Milky Way."
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted operating schedules. Cozy Acres Campground operates from April 1 to November 15 only, while others may reduce amenities during winter months. At Lake Anna, one visitor noted that "the grass at our campsite was knee high and higher" after rainy periods, suggesting maintenance can vary seasonally.
Noise considerations: Proximity to transportation corridors affects some campgrounds. Americamps RV Resort is conveniently located but, as one camper notes, "it's right up against interstate 95 so it's a constant drone of traffic."
Bathroom facilities: Quality varies significantly between parks. Bear Creek Lake features "clean, and have showers and electrical outlets to charge devices if needed." At Powhatan State Park, "the bathhouse was clean, especially during the current pandemic. Each staff member I encountered was extremely helpful and polite."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play areas for children. Cozy Acres Campground offers "a play area for the kids, swimming pool, several fishing ponds, bike trails and more." A visitor described the playground at Powhatan State Park as "impressive" and noted that "the staff is very welcoming upon arrival."
Swimming options: Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA provides a pool that one visitor described as "perfect for a quick dip" while another noted the "large playground and pool, all very clean and well kept." At Bear Creek Lake State Park, visitors appreciate that there's "a great swimming area with a little kids area that was so fun!"
Pet accommodations: Some parks have designated dog areas. Bear Creek Lake State Park includes a "dog only section at the swimming beach, which made for a fun afternoon with our pups," according to one visitor. Americamps features a dog park that one camper noted was used "a ton" during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: At Powhatan State Park, RVers report varying conditions. One visitor mentioned, "Some sites were very level. We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel." Another noted, "Well maintained trails, level sites. No river access in campground."
Hook-up limitations: Electric and water access varies across parks. Powhatan State Park has "no full hookup (yes 30/50 amp)," while Bear Creek Lake State Park enforces a "limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer."
RV-specific amenities: Pocahontas State Park provides dedicated services including "no sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp)" and is "20 mins from every store you can imagine, but super quiet at night."
