Powhatan State Park Campground sits approximately 25 miles from Goochland, Virginia in central Virginia's piedmont region. The campground maintains 29 tent/RV sites and 3 yurts within its 1,500+ acre property, with sites typically shaded by mature hardwood trees. Temperatures range from winter lows near freezing to summer highs averaging 85-90°F with considerable humidity during peak camping season.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The Turkey, Gold Dust, and River Trail connect to form a multi-use loop accessible from Powhatan State Park Campground. "The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling," notes a camper who visited during spring. Various difficulty levels accommodate different riding abilities.
Fishing from shore: Cast a line at multiple access points along the shoreline. "Fishing was not bad. Caught my first ever catfish," reports a visitor at Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground, located 40 minutes from Goochland. A 40-acre lake supports various fish species including bass and catfish.
Water recreation: Kayaking, canoeing and tubing options exist at several parks. "Sites are spaced well and still very close to everything. Very bike friendly and lots of trails. Large playground and a good boat launch for tubes and kayaks," writes one Powhatan visitor who appreciated the river access.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many parks maintain excellent standards in bathhouses. "I was very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic," writes a visitor to Powhatan State Park. "Bathrooms are individual with a shower in each one," notes another camper who appreciated the privacy.
Spacious campsites: Pocahontas State Park Campground offers well-designed sites. "Sites are well spaced," reports a reviewer who visited this park located 30 minutes from Goochland. Another notes, "Clean and huge campsites, great pool, great hiking and biking trails."
Educational programming: Seasonal ranger-led activities provide learning opportunities. "Lots of geocaching on grounds, fishing, hiking, boat launch, canoe racks, playground, a store with a nature center, and a Junior Ranger program for the kids," details a Powhatan State Park visitor, highlighting options beyond riding.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian camping near Goochland requires advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We were there in March so it was still a bit cold and not really sitting outside and enjoy it weather," notes a visitor to Shenandoah Crossing, which offers sites with amenities.
Site features: Expect different amenities depending on location. "The sites are gravel and include a picnic table, lantern/trash pole, and a fire pit with grill gate," details a camper at Powhatan State Park. Another adds, "Wood is for sale at the park but no ice or refreshments."
Terrain considerations: Some sites present leveling challenges. "We were on site seven which was very long but very unlevel," reports a Powhatan visitor. At Shenandoah Crossing, a camper found that "we reserved a 'pull-through' RV site which ended up being a back-in site that was very uneven and nowhere near level."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: James River State Park Campground provides recreation spaces near campsites. Multiple parks offer playground facilities within walking distance of camping areas, making it convenient for families with young children.
Swimming options: Bear Creek Lake State Park features a designated beach area. "Kids enjoyed the little sandy beach, paddle boats, and easy, flat hike in the pretty forest around the lake," writes a visitor. Several parks offer pet-friendly swimming zones separate from main swimming areas.
Security considerations: Camp loops typically have controlled access. "This campground is waaayyy back in the back of park. Only a few years old," notes a Powhatan visitor, mentioning the secluded location that provides safety from through-traffic while camping with horses or children.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Bear Creek Lake State Park Campground restricts vehicle size. "Limit on RV length to 35 feet. This includes tow vehicle and trailer," advises an experienced camper. Most parks offer electric and water but limited full-hookup options.
Dump station access: Check availability before arrival. "No full hookup (yes 30/50 amp). Well maintained trails, level sites," notes a Powhatan State Park visitor. "The bathhouse is kept very clean," adds another camper at Bear Creek Lake, which provides alternatives when full hookups aren't available.
Seasonal considerations: Summer humidity affects equipment. "Cumberland County is only at 455' elevation, so the heat and humidity in the summer is intense," warns a Bear Creek Lake visitor who recommends fall camping instead. Electrical hookups become important during humid summer months for air conditioning.
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