Cabin camping near Goochland, Virginia offers visitors access to the central Virginia Piedmont region, with elevations averaging 300-400 feet and a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures typically reach the high 80s with significant humidity, while spring and fall bring milder conditions ideal for outdoor exploration. Most cabin facilities remain open year-round, though amenities like swimming areas operate seasonally from late May through early September.
What to Do
Fishing opportunities: Powhatan State Park Campground offers fishing access with multiple options for anglers. "The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling," notes one visitor who enjoyed the outdoor activities available throughout the 1,500-acre setting.
Horseback riding: Shenandoah Crossing features horseback riding trails and stables within a resort-style setting. A visitor mentions the property includes "beautiful sunsets over the stables and horse pastures," while another points out the "complete outdoor kitchen and hot tub" available at some sites.
Archery practice: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground maintains an archery range open to visitors. "There is even an archery range. There is hiking trails throughout as well," reports a camper who visited the park. The range offers beginning archery equipment rentals for those wanting to try the sport.
What Campers Like
Individual bathroom facilities: Several parks feature updated bathroom configurations. At Powhatan State Park, "bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one," offering more privacy than typical campground facilities. Another camper noted the "very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic."
Lake swimming access: Twin Lakes State Park Campground provides swimming areas with designated sections for families. "The swimming area is so amazing. Great area for the kids to enjoy a safe and fun swimming experience," writes one visitor. Another adds that "the swimming lake has a nice beach and we happened to be there this last weekend and the temperature was nice and warm."
Geocaching options: Multiple parks in the area maintain geocaching programs. At Powhatan State Park, one visitor noted "lots of geocaching on grounds" among the activities available. Parks typically provide coordinates at visitor centers or through official park websites.
What You Should Know
Campsite spacing varies dramatically: Site proximity can impact your experience. At Bear Creek Lake, "sites were close together but a few sites are worth it right on the water." Similarly, at Twin Lakes, a camper observed that "tent sites are shady, although some can be VERY close to one another."
Traffic noise at some locations: Proximity to major roads affects sound levels at certain campgrounds. At Christopher Run Campground, one camper observed "there is a very busy main road just across the water that is noisy. You hear traffic late into the night."
Check cabin availability early: During peak season (May-September), cabins book quickly. "Booked last minute on a Wednesday night they had two openings. Sites are very spacious and good distance between other campers," noted one visitor at Powhatan State Park about a rare late availability.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water playgrounds: Several locations offer structured water play areas beyond typical beaches. "The kids enjoyed playing on the beach and on the water playground," mentions a visitor to Twin Lakes State Park, where floating platforms and water features enhance the swimming experience.
Children's programming: Pocahontas State Park Campground runs regular activities for young visitors. One camper highlighted "Staff were wonderful, huge place that is well kept, trails are trimmed back daily... and a Junior Ranger program for the kids" among the family-friendly offerings.
Activity variety: Consider parks with multiple recreation options. At Small Country Campground, a visitor noted the diverse activities: "They have a pond, pool, fishing pond and trails. My band had first seesaw ride, swings and had experienced with jump tube." Another camper mentioned they "have a bouncing blob to the oversized chess set."
Tips from RVers
Limited rig length restrictions: Several campgrounds have maximum length limitations. At Bear Creek Lake State Park, there's a "limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," something to verify before booking.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared with leveling blocks at certain campgrounds. At Shenandoah Crossing, a camper reported "our site was not exactly level but I think it was because we were in the first spot on a row and it had a slant. The others looked pretty level."
Shuttle services: When staying at Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA, use their amusement park transportation. "One convenient option that comes with staying is they have a shuttle service to the amusement park that runs by roughly every 25-30 mins. They even run until 12-1 in the morning for those who plan to do the Haunt the park has during the Fall/Halloween season."
