Dispersed camping near Chester, Virginia centers around Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) offering primitive sites without developed facilities. The Chickahominy WMA features several natural camping spots along the tidal waterways of the coastal Virginia plain, with terrain that remains consistently low-lying and generally flat. Temperature variations include hot, humid summers with average highs in the upper 80s and mild winters where freezing temperatures are occasional rather than consistent.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The boat ramp at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area provides direct water access for anglers. "As a bonus there is a raised area—about 20' above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two," notes camper Kurt S., highlighting the combination of waterfront access and elevated camping options.
Bird watching: Prime bird habitat exists throughout the WMA systems, particularly in winter months when migratory waterfowl frequent the waterways. One camper at Chickahominy WMA noted "We saw one deer hunter. No amenities. Very quiet, and dark." The quiet environment makes wildlife observation more productive during early morning hours.
Hiking forest trails: Several unmarked but established paths wind through the mature woodlands. A visitor to Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area described "Nice trails, with mature mixed hardwoods and conifers. We were there in deer hunting season so remember to wear blaze orange or pink."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Many campsites offer substantial separation from neighbors. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water... this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with," reports Kurt S. about Chickahominy WMA.
Multiple site options: Sites range from shoreline locations to elevated spots with views. "Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river," writes Kevin F. about Eagle Nest Lookout.
Dark sky viewing: Limited light pollution creates opportunities for stargazing. Vidalia S. described Ware Creek WMA as "Very dark and quiet. Good t-mobile coverage. Fires allowed, but no cleared fire ring." The darkness makes for excellent night sky observation during clear weather.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Virginia residents with hunting or fishing licenses receive complementary camping privileges, while others must purchase day-use permits. "It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving. No amenities but nice camping experience and 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 GoGo about Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area.
Variable site conditions: Some areas experience overuse issues that affect camp quality. One camper at Eagle Nest Lookout noted, "More of a small boating/fishing area locals usually party at than much of a campground. There's a couple more conventional pull outs before it and I stayed at one which was relatively peaceful besides someone going birdshooting with their incredibly panicked dog nearby."
Seasonal hunting activity: Be aware of hunting seasons and wear appropriate safety colors. Vidalia S. mentions, "We were there in deer hunting season so remember to wear blaze orange or pink." Checking seasonal hunting calendars before primitive camping near Chester, Virginia helps ensure safety.
Tips for camping with families
Location selection considerations: Some sites offer more child-friendly terrain. Kevin F. suggests, "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 the all the people Fishing left."
Noise awareness: Sound carries across water and between campsites. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening," notes Greg S., adding important context for families with children who might be sensitive to noise.
Trash management: Pack extra bags for cleanup efforts. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this are in which we picked up," reports one camper, indicating the potential need for additional cleanup when camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many primitive camping locations near Chester have restricted vehicle access. Kurt S. notes, "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," suggesting smaller rigs work better in these locations than full-size RVs.
Bridge restrictions: Certain access roads have weight and size limitations. Vidalia S. explains about Ware Creek WMA: "Good gravel road with mowed shoulders to get there, and a one lane bridge, with a 40 ton weight limit." While the weight limit accommodates most recreational vehicles, the single-lane bridge requires caution when towing.
