Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area provides rustic camping near Fort Lee, Virginia with notable seasonal variations. Winter brings quieter camping conditions with fewer visitors, while summer sees increased activity from anglers and recreational users. The area spans over 5,200 acres in Charles City County within the coastal plains of tidewater Virginia, primarily consisting of forested land along the Chickahominy and James Rivers.
What to do
Water recreation access: Multiple primitive sites at Eagle Nest Lookout provide direct access to fishing. One visitor noted, "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."
Wildlife observation: The forested areas support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. The terrain contains numerous trails for exploration. A camper at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area mentioned, "Nice trails, with mature mixed hardwoods and conifers. We were there in deer hunting season so remember to wear blaze orange or pink."
Seasonal hunting: The management areas permit hunting during designated seasons, requiring appropriate licenses and safety precautions. Visitors should check Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources regulations before planning hunting activities and wear high-visibility clothing during hunting seasons.
What campers like
Elevated campsites: Several locations offer both shoreline camping and higher elevation options. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a camper described, "There is a large shoreline area to car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river."
Waterfront proximity: Many sites feature direct water access. At Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA), a visitor shared their experience: "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."
Dark night skies: The remote setting provides minimal light pollution. A camper at Chickahominy WMA reported, "Very quiet, and dark. Will take a look around in the morning."
What you should know
Variable cell service: Mobile coverage differs throughout the area. One camper at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area noted, "Good t-mobile coverage," though service may be inconsistent in more remote sections.
Trash management challenges: Several sites experience litter issues. A visitor at Eagle Nest Lookout observed, "More of a small boating/fishing area locals usually party at than much of a campground... No amenities and lots of trash. Ended up picking up a great deal for some piece of mind."
Shooting range noise: The proximity to hunting areas creates periodic noise disruption. A camper reported, "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping."
Limited privacy on weekends: Popular fishing spots can become crowded. One visitor explained, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Safety precautions: During hunting seasons, ensure children wear appropriate high-visibility clothing. A camper advised, "We were there in deer hunting season so remember to wear blaze orange or pink."
Access limitations: Some areas require short hikes from parking areas. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a visitor described, "You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to a small knoll... You are able to park down below and carry your gear the short distance."
Noise considerations: The area contains multiple uses that may disturb light sleepers. One camper noted, "Someone going birdshooting with their incredibly panicked dog nearby and someone running their generator incredibly early in the morning."
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Numerous cleared areas accommodate compact trailers. A camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area shared, "Basic parking spot in quite 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."
Overnight parking options: Several designated areas permit vehicle camping. A visitor at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area reported, "Parked overnight in designated parking area. No motorized vehicles beyond signs... Good gravel road with mowed shoulders to get there, and a one lane bridge, with a 40 ton weight limit."
Site selection: Strategic positioning allows for optimal waterfront camping. A visitor noted, "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."
