Campsites near Hanover, Virginia extend beyond the immediate town boundaries, with options ranging from 10 to 30 miles from the center. The region experiences average summer temperatures in the mid-80s with high humidity and winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Tent campers can access sites ranging from $25-50 per night, while RV sites with hookups typically start at $45 during peak season.
What to do
Fossil hunting at riverside beaches: Westmoreland State Park offers a unique opportunity to search for prehistoric shark teeth. "I love the sharks' teeth display in the shop and when I was there they were working on putting bones together of a whale that was found!" mentions a visitor to Westmoreland State Park Campground.
Mountain biking on established trails: The extensive trail systems provide challenging terrain for cyclists of all levels. "Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history," notes a reviewer about Pocahontas State Park Campground. The park maintains over 60 miles of multi-use trails with varying difficulty levels.
Seasonal Halloween events: Some campgrounds offer special themed weekends during fall. "Had a great time for Halloween here. Will be back," shares a camper who visited Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA. These events typically include campsite decorating contests, trick-or-treating, and costume parades.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Tree coverage provides shade and separation from neighboring campers. A visitor to Powhatan State Park Campground noted, "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."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and common areas receive consistent maintenance. "The bathhouse in the main building was very clean and air-conditioned, which was nice on this warm summer stay," reports a camper who stayed at Americamps RV Resort. Most campgrounds in the region update their facilities regularly.
Convenient shuttle services: Some campgrounds offer transportation to nearby attractions. "Just recently stayed here during a weekend getaway to Kings Dominion. One convenient option that comes with staying is they have a shuttle service to the amusement park that runs by roughly every 25-30 mins," explains a camper about Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA.
What you should know
Winter camping considerations: While year-round camping is available, some amenities may be limited during colder months. "Bathhouses are heated which is amazing," mentions a winter visitor to Westmoreland State Park Campground. Many campgrounds reduce water access at individual sites during freezing temperatures.
Site privacy varies significantly: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. "While the sites were close together in typical RV park style, they were not scrapping together like we've seen at some places and there were many well established trees to provide lots of shade instead of being in an open field," reports a visitor to Americamps.
Military base camping restrictions: Access to some camping facilities requires proper credentials. "Must have proper government ID to access post," notes a camper at Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park. These facilities typically offer exceptional value but with more limited availability to the general public.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds provide dedicated recreational areas 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," shares a visitor about Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA.
Educational programming: Look for parks with nature centers and ranger-led activities. "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," explains a visitor to Powhatan State Park.
Weekend reservation planning: Popular family sites fill quickly during peak seasons. "The fall foliage was very beautiful. The park staff and other campers were polite and helpful. I didn't expect to see bulletins of Virginia History on the grounds. But my inner nerd was intrigued," notes a family who visited Powhatan State Park in October.
Tips from RVers
Free breakfast options: Some RV parks offer complimentary morning meals. "There is a FREE breakfast every morning in the rally room. The morning we were there they were making waffles, and had bagels, pastries, fruit, and a variety of drinks to include coffee," shares an RVer who stayed at Americamps.
Level site availability: RV campers report generally good conditions for setting up. "From what I observed, the sites were all pretty level. Close to the Interstate so made it great for a one night stay," mentions a reviewer about Fredericksburg-Washington DC KOA. Most developed campgrounds provide gravel or concrete pads.
Escorted site assistance: Staff at some parks help guide RVers into their spots. "A staff member lead us to our site and stayed to help us set up and was most knowledgeable. Was able to answer many questions we had and made sure we set up and got all connected correctly," notes a first-time RVer who stayed at Americamps.
