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Best Tent Camping near Hanover, VA

414 Reviews

Several tent campgrounds are available within a 30-mile radius of Hanover, Virginia, offering a mix of established sites and more primitive options. Lake Anna State Park Campground provides tent-friendly sites with amenities like drinking water, showers, and trash disposal, while Phantom Hill Forest Farm offers a more rustic tent camping experience with firewood provided and limited facilities.

Campsite surfaces vary across the region, with most tent areas featuring a mix of dirt, grass, or gravel pads. Lake Anna State Park has well-maintained tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings, though some visitors note the sites can feel close together. Caledon State Park offers a more secluded camping experience with a 2.5-mile hike to reach primitive tent pads. Most locations permit fires when conditions allow, with firewood available for purchase at many sites. Water access varies significantly, with Lake Anna providing drinking water and shower facilities, while more remote sites like Caledon require campers to pack in their own water supplies.

Tent campers at Lake Anna State Park can access multiple hiking trails directly from the campground, including the Campground Walkway Trail that leads to a semi-private beach area. The park's location away from main roads creates a peaceful setting with minimal light pollution. According to one visitor, "We camped in our smaller tent and had the rain fly off so we could stare at the stars all night. It was awesome." Phantom Hill Forest Farm provides more secluded tent sites with greater privacy between campsites. Caledon State Park offers backcountry tent camping right on the Potomac River, providing scenic views and a more immersive natural experience. A camper noted that Caledon features "a 3 mile hike to the campsite which is right by the Potomac river! The beach is beautiful and we saw the most gorgeous sunset."

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Best Tent Sites Near Hanover, Virginia (8)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Hanover, VA

13 Photos of 8 Hanover Campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews near Hanover, VA

414 Reviews of 8 Hanover Campgrounds

  • Stephanie J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2018

    Powhatan State Park Campground

    Peaceful and well-maintained campsites, just a short drive from the city

    Powhatan State Park is a relatively new addition to the VA State Parks system; the park itself has only been open since 2003. The primitive, canoe-in campground opened with the park, and the loop with electric and water hookups opened in 2016.

    **Canoe-In Campground: **

    When we stayed, we stayed in the canoe-in campground, although we hiked in the approximate 1/4 mile from the parking lot, rather than coming in by boat. This is a quiet, beautiful loop, with 8 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. There are composting toilets here and no potable water, so you will need to bring enough water for your trip or purification methods. Proper food storage is also essential back here; while this section of Virginia does not have the bear activity you’d find in the mountains, there are still raccoons and other wildlife who should not have access to human food. There are no bear boxes, so treat food storage as you would in the backcountry. 

    -Sites 7 and 8 are closes to the toilets, and back up to the woods leading towards the Turkey Trail; hikers are visible from site 8 and audible from site 7.  

    -Sites 4 and 5 back up to a very wooded area, and are further back from the gravel loop. Site 4 is closest to the boat ramp and is visible; site 5 is probably the most private in the loop. 

    -Sites 1,2, and 6 are in the center loop, but have more space between them than inner-loop sites usually have. Sites 1 and 2 are right against the River Trail however, so will have hikers walking directly past during the day. 

    The canoe-in loop sits against the James River; there is a rack to stow your canoe/kayak overnight, and a pay by honor-system pile of firewood. Due to the thick foliage there is no actual river-view during the warmer months, but it’s easily accessbile. When we stayed in early spring there were a lot of vines that served as “natural playground” for our kids; they used them as swings, monkey bars, and enjoyed getting their feet wet at the base of the canoe ramp, so much that they declined hiking or driving to the park’s man-made playground. This loop makes a great “trial run” site for anyone considering a future backcountry trip; the walk to the parking lot is short enough to make multiple trips if you need to, and you still have access to the park amenities if you don’t mind a walk/drive to get there.

    River Bend Loop

    The River Bend Loop has 29 sites with water and electric hook-ups, though very little privacy between sites. The surrounding trees give all but the first three sites decent shade and a wooded atmosphere, and this is a great loop for RVs or tent campers who enjoy being close to other sites. If you are looking for a feeling of isolation however, you would be better off minimizing your gear and walking to the primitive sites, or going to a different park altogether. The bathrooms here have electricity, flush toilets, and showers with hot water. Sites 1-14 are available for advance reservation, and sites 15-29 are first-come first-served. Site 25 offers the most privacy for tent campers, and it’s very large, but if the campground is at full occupancy all sites are going to have a crowded feel.

    There are several hiking trails at this park ranging from very easy to moderate, and a couple of them are horse-friendly; our kids enjoy seeing horses on the trail with them, but be mindful if you have kids/dogs who may be afraid of the horses. The park also has a playground, picnic shelters, and ranger activities on the weekends, and there are three yurts available to book.

    This is a very open, well-maintained park, and the camping options should appeal to a wide spectrum of campers, and my only reason for giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the lack of privacy in the drive-up campsites. It feels a lot like a hidden gem; the hookup campground fills up during warmer weather, but all of our visits here have been very quiet and peaceful. If you are looking for camping options near Richmond, I highly recommend this park!

  • Katie M.
    Oct. 2, 2020

    Powhatan State Park Campground

    Peaceful and quiet!

    We stayed here in March and it was very cold for tent camping, I think it got into the 20's at night! There were no other campers staying there while we were there in the canoe-in campground so it was very peaceful and quiet. This campground is primitive so there is no electricity or water. The sites include a picnic table and fire ring. Our tent pad was pretty level and pretty big! You could probably fit two small tents on there. There is a short .2 mile hike from a parking lot so we packed light and backpacked in. We stayed in site 4, which is towards the back of the loop. Not much privacy in the winter because there are no leaves on the trees. This campground has a pit toilet at the front of the campground and fire wood available for purchase near the canoe launch. 

    We loved this park! The trails are fun and love all the beautiful views. We saw some incredible sunsets over the James River. There are all sorts of fun, gnarly trees for the kids to play on at the campsite! They had so much fun!

    There are some great breweries nearby and only a short drive from Richmond and Charlottesville!

  • RL
    Nov. 17, 2020

    Pocahontas State Park Campground

    Lovely November Trip 🔥

    Camped on a Friday night, had site 106. It was a really nice site: set back a bit from the road, fairly wooded, not a long walk to the bathhouse water/electric hook-ups, and a long back-in driveway. Nice fire ring with grill (that had been cleaned), lantern/trash pole, picnic table. Pea gravel tent pad. Honor pay wood.

    After a neighboring camper left we noticed they were disinfecting the campsites very well. Picnic tables, electric/water areas, fire pit areas, poles, etc. were all getting sprayed down between campers.

    Walked around the trails on Saturday. The trail around Beaver Lake was a really nice 2.5 mile loop. Gorgeous in November. Like most weekends, a bit busy on a Saturday. Everything’s open right now, and masks are required in common areas, bath houses, etc.

  • Napunani
    Jun. 24, 2022

    Chickahominy Riverfront Park

    Needs Some Overdue TLC

    PROS 

    Perfect campground to explore the Historical Triangle 

    Campground along Virginia Capital Bike Trail, which was an excellent riding trail 

    Site#335 level side-to-side 

    Sandy gravel site 

    Moveable plastic wood picnic table 

    Metal fire pit with cooking grate 

    Shady site 

    Wood and ice for sale at Guest Services 

    Slight river view from Site#335 

    Toilet/shower building clean 

    Pool 

    CONS 

    Overused James City County Park…definitely needs some TLC applied 

    Check-in clerk very curt and extremely non-customer service oriented 

    Never saw a camp host site or the actual camp host 

    Weirdly laid out full hook up campground. Some sites are 20 ft long 

    Sites are extremely close to each other 

    Had to park tow vehicle next to trailer due to short length of site 335

    Tight roadway thru full hook up campground 

    Dirt roadways = dusty 

    Empty campsites were heavily littered

    No privacy from neighbor sites 

    Extremely low water pressure even when campground is not fully occupied 

    No gate or controlled access to campground so lots of gawking drive thrus 

    Lots of speed bumps throughout park 

    Site#335 fire ring filled with ash upon arrival 

    Toilet/shower building lit up like a Christmas tree all night long

    Street lights throughout campground 

    Road noise from VA5 

    No WiFi 

    1 bar Verizon

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 31, 2018

    Small Country Campground

    Designed With Family In Mind

    This is by no means the biggest campground or the most modern but something which can be said for this campground is it feels like it was designed with family fun in mind. From the bouncing blob to the oversized chess set, from the lakeside beach to the swimming pool, it seems as though plenty of thought has been placed on how to keep a family entertained when in this area of Virginia.

    The sites themselves are not just average tent and RV sites. Instead they have various types of cabins which you can rent in addition to these. The tent sites are grouped in the same area and while there are only a handful of them, they are well shaded, nicely spaced and pretty even. The rolling hills of the area do not seem to effect the layout of these spaces.

    My site was equipped with a picnic table however I did not have a fire ring or lantern post. They do have some upgraded sites for tents which include these or even have electricity. I enjoyed the location and when I was visiting there were not many people staying in this area.

    I do wish I hadn't been traveling alone because it would have been a bit more fun with all the activities had I have had a travel companion. This is one of those places where it pays to have a buddy!!

    TIPS:

    • If you will be staying on a weekend call in advance to book because of limited tent sites.

    • During summertime this place is like one of those dream summer camps with lake toys including blobs and inflatable obstacles. Try to visit during this time of year to fully take advantage.

  • B
    Mar. 31, 2021

    Thousand Trails Williamsburg

    Extenuating circumstances

    We arrived on opening day (March 19, 2021) for the season. They had unfortunately been a victim of the rain and the main road to the campground had washed out. Alternative routes were set up to enter and exit. I understand from reading other reviews that they can routinely have problems when it rains . We were placed in a small site in front of the check in location. We were pre assigned a site and not given a choice. The mud and puddles were so bad we couldn’t locate the sewer connection. But the next day they came over and found it for us and leveled out some gravel piles that had been dumped on the site. The site was level and gravel. A picnic table and fire ring was available. The roads are a bit narrow and there are lots of trees. Plenty of nice area to walk our dog. We didn’t use or even go in the bathhouses so can’t comment on those. All in all it was okay... as long as it doesn’t rain. It appeared there were some full time cabin residents and camper residents as well. Location was great and we loved going into Colonial Williamsburg from here.

  • Trina C.
    Jun. 24, 2018

    Chickahominy Riverfront Park

    County Park

    This park boasts over 120 sites, some wIth river/creek views. sites are Basic: tent; Electric only: tent/pop up; Water/Electric: 20,30 amp; Water/Electric: 20-50 amp; very limited 50 amp full hookups. 2 bath houses. Group sites. No cabins. Fishing pier, pool, biking/hiking/walking trails, play ground, boat launch and small boat rentals. Reserve 12 months out, full payment required. 90 day maximum stay.

  • Laura M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 9, 2023

    Colonial Pines Campground At Williamsburg Christian Retreat Center

    Great place to recharge

    I will admit I was a little hesitant about coming to an RV park located within a Christian Retreat Center. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but we came anyway because the price through the Passport America discount was right ($20/night for a FHU site with the discount on off-season rates, so, $40 without the discount). I was happy we came, the office staff person was so friendly and so nice and welcoming, and the campground was just great. There’s plenty of activities here- there’s a playground, a gaga ball pit, basketball court, frisbee golf course, pool, soccer field, baseball field, and some really nice walking trails in the woods (some of these might be restricted to use by retreat guests, not sure). Some basic snacks and knick knacks and clothing available for sale in the office.

    There’s laundry here, but the set up was a little awkward- there’s one washer/ dryer in the hallway of the lodge, which is a hotel-like building. It’s kind of a far walk from the campground, and there’s no place to hang out and wait for your laundry. It’s $5 for a load (wash& dry) and you can pay by credit card in the office or drop $5 in the box by the machines. Firewood available for sale here for $5, pay by venmo, at the office, or in the honor box. No alcohol allowed in the park. 

    Cell service for Verizon and ATT was pretty decent, and they have great free wifi. Showers are good and clean and free, continuous water running (no button to push).

  • RL
    Sep. 6, 2019

    Christopher Run Campground

    We made it work

    To be fair, I only went the once but wasn’t impressed. The site was so tiny - barely large enough for my friend and I to each park and set up a tent. We were super close to the road and dump station, so avoid that site (I don’t recall the number). There was also very little privacy between neighboring sites. No established fire ring or fire area. We asked the store attendant if we could just build a fire ring with rocks and he said that was fine. It’s the only time I’ve ever seen a site like this haha. The small beach area is nice enough, but it is tiny. Would definitely recommend Lake Anna State Park over this one; they aren’t too far apart.

Guide to Hanover

Tent camping near Hanover, Virginia offers a variety of experiences across eastern Virginia's Piedmont region. Sites within a 30-mile radius range from established state parks to private farms on elevations between 100-400 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with temperatures between 60-80°F.

What to do

Fishing opportunities: Lake Anna State Park Campground provides multiple fishing piers with ample sitting areas. According to Jennifer G., "It has great hiking trails and if your looking for a relaxing fishing afternoon, they have some of the nicest fishing piers with ample sitting area."

Horseback riding: Some parks in the area have equestrian trails for visitors. At Lake Anna State Park Campground, Sarah F. notes it's a "Wonderful place, very beautiful! of courses, horses loved It too!"

Fourth of July festivities: Several campgrounds host special events during holidays. Jonny D. shares his experience at Lake Anna: "Always come here for fourth of July and it is quite a show there are a bunch of activities to do."

River camping: For a more immersive water experience, some sites offer riverside camping. At Caledon State Park Campground, campers can hike to waterfront sites. Todd B. explains, "7 or 8 tent pads. Wood for sale at the site for $4 honor system. Porta pottie right next to wood pile."

What campers like

Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded camping experiences. At Phantom Hill Forest Farm, RL notes, "The sites are large and primitive. We had no trouble getting down there in the jeep. We appreciated the dishes/kitchen set up, games, and the adorable outhouse!"

Clean facilities: Many campers highlight the maintenance of bathrooms and showers. Myron C. observed at Lake Anna State Park, "The bath house was clean, and I especially liked the privacy of individual shower rooms."

Accessible amenities: Several campgrounds feature ADA-friendly facilities. Myron C. also noted, "This campground is ADA accessible with the lantern hangers having lower hooks for those in wheelchairs, and at least one of the cabins has a wheelchair ramp."

Stargazing: The area offers good night sky viewing opportunities. At Cloverdale Farms, Elena B. describes, "Fields in the back lend a great view for star gazing and looking up at the Milky Way."

What you should know

Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds are private or restricted. Dylan S. notes about Lake Land'Or General Campground: "This campsite is only open to residents of the gated community and their guests."

Campsite surfaces: Sites vary in terrain and preparation. Myron C. observed at Lake Land'Or: "The sites are fairly level, although some do have a slight slope. There is no water or electricity at any of the sites, but there are fire rings. Some of the sites have a standing grill and a picnic table."

Hiking distances: Some primitive sites require significant hiking. At Caledon State Park, Katie T. shares, "It was my first hike in primitive camping experience. We hiked for a few hours and finally got to our site which was right on the Potomac River."

Water availability: Not all sites provide drinking water. Todd B. advises about Caledon: "No water on site and no reasonable source to filter water from so be prepared."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Lake Land'Or General Campground, Myron C. mentions, "My grandson loves camping there because of the playground, and for dog lovers, there is a fenced dog walk."

Beach activities: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming areas. Jennifer G. notes about Lake Anna, "The swimming area is clean and very family oriented."

Biking opportunities: Many sites have bike-friendly paths. Jennifer G. adds, "Our grandchildren love that they are able to bike ride and enjoy the beautiful scenery."

Noise considerations: Some campgrounds can get busy during peak seasons. Beth S. warns about Lake Anna: "When we arrived the site was clean & ready for use. We weren't excited about being so close to so many people & the bathroom door needs to be fixed because every time some went to the bathroom we would hear the door SLAM shut all hours of the night."

Tips from RVers

Site sizing: RV campers should check site dimensions before booking. At Lake Anna State Park, Myron C. observed, "Although we only tent camped, I noticed a lot of things about the campground that would welcome RVs as well. There were large back-in sites as well as pull-through sites."

Hookup options: Electric service varies between campgrounds. Myron notes, "Campers can choose sites with or without electricity."

Dump station access: Some campgrounds provide sanitation facilities. According to Myron, "There was also a dump station" at Lake Anna State Park.

Site maintenance: Grass cutting and maintenance can affect RV camping experience. Myron adds, "The only downside I found was that the grass really needed mowing. Even though there had been a few rainy days, the grass at our campsite was knee high and higher."

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hanover, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hanover, VA is Lake Anna State Park Campground with a 4.2-star rating from 21 reviews.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Hanover, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 8 tent camping locations near Hanover, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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