Camping cabins near Dinwiddie, Virginia provide convenient access to both the James River watershed and the Appomattian Trail networks that define the region's landscape. Located in the Piedmont region with elevations between 100-300 feet, this area experiences moderate seasonal temperatures with humid summers and mild winters. Most camping options in this region remain open from early spring through late fall, though some park cabins require reservations up to 11 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking extensive trail systems: Pocahontas State Park offers multiple trail networks ranging from beginner to advanced. "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... The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling," notes a visitor to Powhatan State Park Campground.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Twin Lakes State Park features two distinct lake environments for swimming, fishing and paddling. A camper reported, "The swimming area is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience. They have boat rentals and a fishing pier... We hiked some of the trails, there is beautiful nature that surrounds you."
Historical explorations: Visit working plantation grounds at Chippokes State Park Campground where visitors can tour historical buildings and learn about agricultural practices. "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day and how they can survive into the future," shares one camper.
What campers like
Private wooded sites: Many campers appreciate the natural screening between sites at certain parks. At Pocahontas State Park Campground, a reviewer observed, "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful." Another noted, "Great State Park campground! Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses receive high marks at several campgrounds. "The bathhouse is in the center of the loop so that makes it convenient to most of the sites," mentioned a visitor to Twin Lakes State Park. Another camper at Powhatan State Park was "very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic. Each staff member I encountered was extremely helpful and polite."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing areas are available at Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort, which features both catch-and-release and stocked ponds. "We've fished at the little catch and release pond successfully but didn't try out the catch and keep catfish pond," one camper shared. Another visitor mentioned, "Level sites with brick paver pads, full hookups, RV storage, playground, pool, store, fire rings, 3 fishing ponds, awesome owners."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many parks fill quickly, especially during peak season. "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," reports a camper at Powhatan State Park.
Seasonal operations: Some facilities operate on limited schedules. At Emporia KOA Holiday, which was formerly Yogi Bear Jellystone Park, a visitor noted changes to park operations: "Our park will no longer be part of the Jellystone Park franchise after October 4th, 2021. This means Yogi Bear-themed character appearances, events, and merchandise will no longer be offered."
Noise considerations: Depending on location, some campgrounds experience more noise than others. At Picture Lake Campground, one camper warned: "It's RIGHT beside the race track and the races go on till midnight. The sites are very close together and uneven. It would be a nice quick stop place on the way to a nicer camp but I don't recommend making this place the getaway campsite."
Tips for camping with families
Pool amenities: Several campgrounds maintain swimming pools for family enjoyment. "They do an awesome job for 4th of July! Sites are spaced ok, I like a little larger spots. These are typical size for private campgrounds. They have bike trails, fishing pond and swimming pool," writes a visitor to Cozy Acres Campground.
Playground access: Multiple age-appropriate play areas exist at certain parks. At Chickahominy Riverfront Park, a camper described their family experience: "Great site. Very Clean bathhouse. Pool and water area for the kids with a life guard! Huge grass area to walk the dogs or hit golf balls. Trails lead to hidden docks or beaches on the river."
Educational opportunities: State parks often provide nature programs suitable for children. One camper mentioned Twin Lakes State Park has "a large playground for the kids and the roads are good for bike riding. We hiked some of the trails, there is beautiful nature that surrounds you."
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Pay attention to site dimensions and configurations when booking. "The pull through spot really helped on my first adventure. Hook ups were clean, and easily accessible," noted a first-time RVer at Emporia KOA Holiday.
Accessibility factors: Some campgrounds have limited access for larger rigs. At South Forty RV Resort & Campground, a full-time RVer advised: "We are full time and were passing through and saw this on map. Friendly staff. Level sites with good size sites. Didn't venture out as temps dropped fast this day. Good stop for overnight. Also seems to have many who want to stay 4-5 months in this area."
Hookup variations: Utilities differ significantly between parks. A camper at Pocahontas State Park mentioned, "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."
