Dispersed camping opportunities near Fort Monroe, Virginia provide basic access to undeveloped waterfront sites along the James River and Chickahominy River. These primitive camping areas require campers to bring all necessary supplies and follow strict Leave No Trace principles throughout their stay. Many sites offer direct water access with minimal infrastructure beyond established clearings and occasional fire rings.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Anglers regularly visit Eagle Nest Lookout to fish directly from the shoreline. "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," notes one Eagle Nest Lookout visitor.
Waterfront exploration: Primitive sites at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA) provide direct river access. "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," reports one camper.
Hiking nearby trails: The surrounding management areas contain various unmarked paths worth exploring. "The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place for hiking," mentions one visitor about the trails around Eagle Nest Lookout.
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Several locations offer higher ground options with water views. "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 a Chickahominy WMA visitor about the terrain advantages.
Multiple site options: The management areas contain several established clearings spread across the property. "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," explains a camper at Chickahominy WMA.
Wildlife viewing: These natural areas provide opportunities to observe local fauna in their natural habitat. "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning," wrote a visitor at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area, another free camping option near Fort Monroe.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Access to Virginia Wildlife Management Areas requires proper documentation. "Basic parking spot in quite location...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 a Chickahominy visitor.
Occasional noise issues: Nearby activities can impact the wilderness experience. "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," cautions a reviewer at Eagle Nest Lookout.
User conflicts: Different recreational activities sometimes overlap at these sites. "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," notes an Eagle Nest visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra trash bags: Sites frequently contain litter from previous users. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up," mentions an Eagle Nest camper, highlighting the need for cleanup supplies.
Consider weekday visits: Weekends bring increased activity from multiple user groups. "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side," notes a Chickahominy WMA visitor, suggesting weekdays might offer a quieter experience.
Bring firewood: While fire rings exist at some locations, gathering sufficient wood requires effort. "I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed," shares a camper about their preparation at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Tips from RVers
Look for established pull-ins: Some sites accommodate small trailers with water views. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," reports one RVer about their experience finding suitable parking at Chickahominy WMA.
Car camping alternatives: For those without traditional RVs, several sites accommodate vehicle-based camping. "Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp," notes a visitor about the access at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Site navigation challenges: Finding specific locations can require additional effort. "Helpful hint: This is the spot by the water. There was confusion because the other site on this app just takes you near the gun range and it is not by the water," advises an Eagle Nest camper regarding locating the proper area.
