Best Campgrounds near Fort Lee, VA
The central Virginia region surrounding Fort Lee offers a diverse range of camping experiences within an hour's drive of the military installation. State parks dominate the camping landscape, with Pocahontas State Park standing as Virginia's largest at nearly 8,000 acres, featuring well-maintained trails, water recreation, and shaded campsites. Campgrounds near Petersburg, including Picture Lake Campground and South Forty RV Resort, provide year-round accessibility for both tent and RV campers. Military personnel have dedicated options at the Richmond Family Recreation RV Camp, while those seeking historical context can explore Chippokes State Park Campground, situated on a working farm dating back to 1619 with access to the James River.
Reservations are essential during peak seasons, particularly at riverfront sites which fill quickly from late spring through early fall. Virginia's humid subtropical climate brings hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F, making water access and shade particularly valuable. As one camper noted, "The sites by the river are very nice, large, mostly level, and with full hookups. There is shade and a nice breeze off the river." Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds, with Verizon generally providing the most reliable coverage. Most state parks maintain year-round operations, though some amenities like pools and boat rentals operate seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw in the region, with the James River, York River, and Chickahominy River all offering camping access within reasonable distance of Fort Lee. Many visitors highlight the historical significance of the area, with one reviewer mentioning that Chickahominy Riverfront Park serves as "a perfect campground to explore the Historical Triangle" of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. Campers frequently mention the extensive trail systems, particularly the Virginia Capital Trail which spans 51 miles from Jamestown to Richmond. Wildlife encounters are common, with campers reporting raccoons, turtles, and various bird species. Summer heat and humidity can be challenging, with tick prevention recommended during woodland hikes, especially at Pocahontas State Park where multiple reviewers mentioned significant tick populations.
