Pocahontas State Park Campground sits at approximately 300 feet above sea level in central Virginia's Piedmont region, characterized by gently rolling terrain and mixed hardwood forests. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder 60-75°F days. Winter camping remains possible with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Mountain biking trails: Pocahontas State Park Campground offers over 25 miles of dedicated mountain biking paths ranging from beginner-friendly routes to technical single-track. "We hiked some of the trails, there is beautiful nature that surrounds you. Close to the High Bridge and different daily excursions," notes a visitor at Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple stocked ponds and lake access points around Dinwiddie provide year-round fishing. At Chickahominy Riverfront Park, one camper advises: "There is a dock down by the boat ramp. It says no fishing. Wait until dark and ignore the sign. There's a light down there that draws the insects. The fish are everywhere."
Historical exploration: The area surrounding Dinwiddie offers Revolutionary and Civil War sites within 30-minute drives. "The park is in a great location to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestowne, and Yorktown and is a great home base for exploring those sites," writes a camper about Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate thoughtfully designed campgrounds with adequate separation between neighbors. At Powhatan State Park Campground, a visitor notes: "Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers. Nice privacy. Large Bath house dump stations were great."
Wildlife viewing: The forested camping areas provide natural habitat for diverse wildlife. At Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground, campers report seeing "a fat raccoon, daring squirrels, a turtle, and vultures" plus "harmless garden spiders that are shockingly large and bright yellow."
Swimming options: During summer months, multiple swimming areas provide relief from Virginia heat. "The swimming lake is a good size. There is a concession stand, a beach with lifeguard, and a rental station for paddle boats," reports a camper at Twin Lakes State Park Campground.
What you should know
Train noise: Some campgrounds in the region experience railroad disturbances. At Anvil Campground near Williamsburg, campers warn: "With AC on, windows and shades closed, we can hear neighbor AC, TV, loud/long trains, cars on road and highway day and night. Train is so close that it shakes our RV."
Site spacing variations: Campgrounds vary widely in site separation. At South Forty RV Resort, a reviewer notes: "Site A4 was pretty nice. Had enough space between my camper and the neighbors. The only downside was a utility hub somewhat in the middle of the site... Other sites closer to the pool were super close together."
Seasonal crowds: The popularity of luxury glamping in Dinwiddie, Virginia creates peak periods. A camper at Bear Creek Lake notes: "We were very uncomfortable our first night because of this, so fall would probably be the best time to go as it is when central Virginia has the best weather."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming beaches: Most state parks offer designated swimming areas with safety features. At Thousand Trails Lake Gaston, a family noted: "We like the lake and it's easily accessible... It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade."
Junior Ranger programs: Several parks offer educational activities for children. At Powhatan State Park, a visitor highlights: "The staff were wonderful, huge place that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily... and a Junior Ranger program for the kids."
Playground access: Consider campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Every camper's dream spot. Seriously, this modern giant state park has it all: mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover (even in winter) a lifetime's worth of trails to explore, and clean, legit bathrooms and showers," reports a visitor to Pocahontas State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: Many campsites require leveling equipment. A camper at Powhatan State Park shares: "Some sites were very level. We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel."
Hookup locations: Check the position of utilities before booking. At South Forty RV Resort, a camper notes: "The site itself was fairly level, had a brand new picnic table, and had a little gravel pad. Other sites closer to the pool were super close together."
Size restrictions: Some parks limit RV length. At Bear Creek Lake State Park, campers are advised of a "limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer." For upscale glamping near Dinwiddie, Virginia, larger RVs may need to choose commercial campgrounds over state parks.
