Primitive camping near Petersburg, Virginia offers access to several Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) with shoreline locations. Seasonal considerations impact the camping experience, with autumn offering moderate temperatures and colorful foliage while summer brings higher humidity and more insect activity. The James River and Chickahominy River provide water access at these rustic sites where self-sufficiency is essential.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Eagle Nest Lookout, anglers have reported impressive catches. "If you are fishing, they pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass," notes one visitor who stayed during winter.
Collect firewood nearby: Gather materials for evening campfires from surrounding areas. "I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed," reports a camper who visited Eagle Nest Lookout during colder months.
Explore hiking trails: The WMAs feature various walking paths through coastal plain forests. A reviewer at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area mentioned, "The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place for hiking."
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Multiple spots allow camping right beside the water. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," shares a Chickahominy WMA visitor who appreciated the proximity to shoreline.
Elevated camping spots with views: Some areas offer higher ground for better vistas. "At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River," describes a camper about the knoll at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Basic but functional sites: Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area provides simple but effective camping options. "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning," notes a visitor who utilized their vehicle for overnight stays.
What you should know
Noise considerations: The proximity to shooting ranges affects sound levels at certain sites. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening," warns a reviewer who stayed at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Variable privacy levels: Weekend popularity can impact solitude. "If your looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area. Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once all the people Fishing left," advises a winter car camper.
Permit system: Virginia requires proper documentation for WMA use. "You can purchase $4 daily pass or if Virginia residents free 14 days camping complementary as well with any fishing license or hunting license if you have," explains a Chickahominy WMA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose quieter weekdays: For a more peaceful experience with children, avoid peak fishing times. "This is a well used fishing location," notes a camper who encountered late-night fishing activity that disrupted their stay at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Pack extra cleanup supplies: Bringing additional garbage bags helps address existing litter. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up," mentions one conservation-minded visitor who helped maintain the area.
Consider site elevation: Areas higher above water level may be safer for younger children. "There is a raised area—about 20' above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two," suggests a Chickahominy visitor describing alternative camping spots away from the immediate shoreline.
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: The access roads and parking areas accommodate limited vehicle sizes. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water. Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with," shares a Chickahominy WMA visitor.
Prepare for basic conditions: No hookups or services exist for recreational vehicles. "Basic parking spot in quiet location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving," describes a camper who gave Chickahominy WMA a positive rating despite minimal amenities.
Scout locations before committing: Some GPS coordinates may not lead to optimal RV spots. "This is the spot by the water. There was confusion because the other site on this app just takes you near the gun range and it is not by the water," clarifies a visitor regarding Eagle Nest Lookout locations.
