Campsites near Richmond, Virginia offer diverse accommodations from primitive tent sites to upscale RV pads within an hour's drive of the city. The region's moderate climate allows for comfortable camping from spring through fall, with average summer temperatures reaching the high 80s and occasional humidity. Winter camping options exist at year-round facilities where temperatures typically remain above freezing, though occasional snow is possible. The area's relatively flat terrain with modest elevation changes makes most campgrounds accessible for vehicles of all sizes.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Anna State Park: The 40-acre lake provides multiple water-based activities beyond swimming. "We brought innertubes and just floated but we saw people fishing, kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddle boarding, and paddle boating. There were lots of people fishing, and someone got a catfish and kept it for dinner," shares one Lake Anna State Park Campground visitor.
Biking on dedicated trails: Several campgrounds connect to Virginia's extensive bike trail network. "There's a huge park that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily. 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," notes a visitor to Powhatan State Park Campground.
Fishing at multiple locations: The region offers diverse fishing spots from stocked ponds to flowing rivers. At Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort, one camper mentions "They have a lot of activities, such as pool, fishing pond and trails. The site was clean and everything worked great!"
Historical exploration: The region's rich history provides educational opportunities. "The campground is in a great location to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestowne, and Yorktown and is a great home base for exploring those sites," reports a Chickahominy Riverfront Park visitor.
What campers like
Privacy and space: Many campers appreciate well-designed sites that offer separation from neighbors. At Pocahontas State Park Campground, a visitor notes: "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff. 20 mins from every store you can imagine, but super quiet at night. Sites are well spaced."
Waterfront campsites: Sites with water views remain popular among tent campers. "We had a beautiful spot along the river, so two of the girls spent every moment at the camp swimming and talking girl talk. The campsites were spacious and we had no immediate neighbors, so we spread out," shares one Chickahominy Riverfront Park visitor.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses consistently receive positive feedback. "Campground is waaayyy back in the back of park. Only a few years old. No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites. No river access in campground," mentions a Powhatan State Park visitor.
Shaded sites: The Virginia summer heat makes tree cover valuable. A Bear Creek Lake State Park visitor shares: "If you are looking for a nice place to relax, this is the campground. It's an older state park with mature shade trees but well maintained. The bathhouse is kept very clean."
What you should know
Seasonal variations in amenities: Many campgrounds limit services in winter months. "Most sites are shaded and there are paved and gravel roads. The spaces are very snug so forget privacy when they're busy, but at the time we were the only ones on our little road. The store is super pricey, but overall a good campground," notes a visitor to Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA.
Tent site pricing considerations: Private campgrounds often charge tent campers the same rates as RVs. "If you are in an RV this place makes sense completely with a standard rate of $44 for a basic water and electric site or $46 to add sewer. But if you are a tent camper like myself the price point of $44 is a bit too much just to lay my head on the ground with a few amenities," explains a Cozy Acres visitor.
Weekend vs. weekday differences: Many campgrounds transform completely depending on when you visit. "We loved visiting Powhatan State Park. The fall foliage was very beautiful. The park staff and other campers were polite and helpful. We stayed during the week in October. It was warm enough during the day and got a bit chilly at night."
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires proper food storage. "I do have one regret. I opted to leave the bikes at home, not knowing this campground also caters to people riding the Virginia Creeper bike trail! It went for miles and was beautiful!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated family facilities: Some campgrounds offer amenities specifically designed for children. "This is a great place for families with children, young and old! Kid friendly biking around the park. Also saw many with electric scooters and golf carts. Large playground and pool, all very clean and well kept," notes a Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA visitor.
Consider pool access: Swimming pools provide relief from summer heat when natural swimming areas aren't available. "The swimming pool was incredibly large and CLEAN!!! I was surprised! It felt very refreshing and even had an adult swim time and attentive life guards," shares a Chickahominy Riverfront Park camper.
Check for ranger programs: State parks often offer educational activities. "Over 1500 acres with 40 sites, this trip was the start of the camping season for me. The park and grounds are extremely well-maintained. I was very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic," reports a Powhatan State Park visitor.
Water safety considerations: Waterfront sites require vigilance with children. "The tent-only section of the campground is alongside a lake, which provides beautiful views. There are lots of hiking trails to explore in the park. The facilities are well-maintained."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choosing the right campground matters for bigger RVs. "Due to Covid and the proximity to a temporarily closed King's Dominion this campground was very quiet. We enjoyed a larger pull through lot that faced the woods. Some of the sites look pretty tight, but that can be common with a lot of KOA's," notes a Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA visitor.
Hookup variations: Available utilities differ significantly between campgrounds. "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," explains a Powhatan State Park visitor.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extra effort to level RVs. "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."
Proximity to attractions: Location affects the overall glamping experience close to Richmond, Virginia. "Perfect location right off of I-95. Spot we had was spacious and easy to get in and out of. I arrived after hours, but had my reservation hanging on the wall for me. Ground was pretty level and hookup was easy."
