Best Dispersed Camping near Hanover, VA
Dispersed camping near Hanover, Virginia centers around three Wildlife Management Areas that allow primitive camping with minimal amenities. Eagle Nest Lookout in Chickahominy WMA offers sites along the James River, accessible via hiking trails with no established facilities. Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area provides boat-in and hike-in options for remote camping experiences. Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area features multiple cleared areas where campers can set up close to water, with some sites elevated approximately 20 feet above drivable areas.
Access to these sites varies considerably, with most requiring walk-in or hike-in approaches. Eagle Nest Lookout includes a narrow path leading to a small knoll overlooking the James River. Vehicles must be parked below while gear is carried to the camping area. Virginia residents can camp for up to 14 days with a valid fishing or hunting license, while non-residents must purchase a $4 daily use permit. None of these areas provide drinking water, toilets, or trash service. Fire rings exist at some locations, but campers must follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out all waste.
The camping experience at these WMAs combines waterfront views with varying levels of privacy. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a large shoreline area allows camping just feet from the water, with tent sites overlooking the river. Several reviews mention issues with trash and noise. "There are basically two parking or camping spots closest to the boat ramp partitioned by some rail timbers," notes one camper at Eagle Nest. Chickahominy WMA provides more seclusion with "about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though campers should be aware that hunting activity and nearby shooting ranges can create noise, especially on weekends.