Campgrounds near Hanover, Virginia range from military-exclusive facilities to family-friendly resorts with varying seasonal availability. Several parks offer premium concrete pads with patios for larger RVs while more secluded locations provide shaded spots under mature trees. Most campgrounds within 40 miles of Hanover operate from April through mid-November, though a few remain open year-round for winter camping opportunities.
What to do
**Crabbing and fishing: A short drive from Hanover, Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay offers dedicated fishing piers and crabbing opportunities. "We had never been crabbing and this beautiful rv park has its own crabbing pier. There is boating, hiking, watching wild life and so many pretty birds," notes one visitor.
**Mini golf courses: Multiple rv sites near Hanover, Virginia feature on-site mini golf courses for family entertainment. "The campground has a beautiful putt putt course," mentions a visitor at Thousand Trails Williamsburg, where the activity is included among various recreational options.
**Military training observation: For those with proper Department of Defense identification, camping at Fort AP Hill provides a unique experience. "Sometimes you hear military field training going on (live ranges, helicopters, and ospreys - but I don't mind)," explains a camper at this restricted-access facility.
What campers like
**Pool complexes: Many rv parks in the Hanover region feature swimming facilities that operate seasonally. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, campers appreciate the extensive water amenities. "We loved this campground! It was also kid friendly which is something we're always looking for. We had so much fun and there is quite a bit to do," reports one family.
**Level concrete sites: Several campgrounds offer premium concrete pads for easier setup. "Our site was clean and level. No fire pit or grill, so plan ahead," advises a visitor at Bethpage Camp-Resort, indicating the need to verify amenities before arrival.
**Proximity to historic attractions: Campsites near Hanover provide convenient access to Colonial Williamsburg and other historic sites. A visitor at American Heritage RV Park noted it was "very convenient to Williamsburg, Richmond, and Virginia Beach. The staff was exceptionally friendly and accommodating."
What you should know
**Noise considerations: Highway noise affects some campgrounds in the region. At South Forty RV Resort, the proximity to Interstate 95 makes it "perfect location right off of I-95. Spot we had was spacious and easy to get in and out of," according to a recent visitor.
**Seasonal limitations: Many water features close during cooler months. "We went the last weekend the pool was open, which wasn't crowded at all," reports a Bethpage Camp-Resort visitor, highlighting the importance of checking seasonal amenity availability.
**Pollen levels: Spring campers should prepare for significant pollen. A visitor at Thousand Trails Harbor View mentioned, "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen. I worked outside several days and had to wipe my computer off a couple times a day."
Tips for camping with families
**Look for multiple playground options: Campgrounds with diverse play areas accommodate different age groups. "Multiple kids playgrounds" were highlighted by a reviewer at Bethpage Camp-Resort, while another mentioned "the playgrounds are large and fun for the younger kids."
**Check for organized activities: Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay offers scheduled events for children. "This campground is very family oriented and offers an abundance of activities for children and adults alike," explains a visitor, noting the structured programming available throughout their stay.
**Verify bicycle-friendly roads: Paved campground roads provide safe cycling areas for children. "With all paved streets the campground is perfect for bike riding," notes a Bethpage Camp-Resort visitor, emphasizing the importance of safe recreation spaces within the camping area.
Tips from RVers
**Look for pull-through availability: When traveling with larger rigs, prioritize campgrounds with specific site types. "We picked our site (Mulberry 2A) that was a full hookup and a patio...backed to the lake," shares a visitor at Bethpage Camp-Resort, demonstrating the importance of site selection.
**Request assistance if needed: Staff at several campgrounds offer setup help for newcomers. A visitor at Americamps RV Resort explained, "We let them know we were newbies and they were most accommodating! A staff member lead us to our site and stayed to help us set up and was most knowledgeable."
**Check site surface conditions: Weather impacts site quality significantly. "Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance and fresh material added. Had to put down boards to park our travel trailer because about a third of the pad had just turned into mud," warns a Thousand Trails Harbor View camper, highlighting the importance of rain preparation.
