Dispersed camping near Henrico, Virginia requires a drive to nearby wilderness areas and management lands where primitive camping is permitted. Most suitable options lie within a 1-2 hour radius, primarily in neighboring North Carolina. These sites typically feature minimal infrastructure and operate under specific seasonal regulations aligned with hunting seasons, requiring campers to be self-sufficient with water, waste disposal, and other necessities.
What to do
Water recreation access: Butner Lake WMA provides opportunities for fishing and water activities with convenient proximity to multiple lakes. As Donnelle notes, "There is a lake 2 mins away one way and another 7 mins away the other way. The city dump is also 2 mins away. And town is 5 mins away."
Overnight travel stops: Butner Lake WMA serves as an excellent no-cost option for travelers passing through the region. According to Scarlett C., it "Works perfectly, especially in a pinch," making it suitable for those needing a quick overnight rest while traveling through the area.
Wildlife observation: The camping areas near Henrico offer opportunities to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. One camper at Butner Lake WMA reported: "I heard many coyotes elks and a an owl but nothing never stumbled to our campsite close enough to get a look at it other than one young fox which was running away when we pulled in one late night."
What campers like
Free accommodations: The cost-free nature of dispersed camping options appeals to budget-conscious travelers. Max O. appreciates that at Hibernia State Rec Area, "the best part is its FREE CAMPING!!" making it an economical alternative to paid campgrounds.
Cell service availability: Despite the remote setting, campers report reliable connectivity at certain sites. As one visitor mentions, sites are "very primitive but you have a decent signal if you need to park and get work done. Great spot to sleep if you are passing through!"
Quick access to urban amenities: The proximity to towns and services while maintaining a wilderness feel provides convenience. Billy B. notes that sites are "Very primitive, but close to town if you need anything," allowing campers to obtain supplies without lengthy travel.
What you should know
License requirements: Some dispersed camping areas require specific permits or licenses. At Butner Lake WMA, Donnelle warns: "All Campers MUST have a fishers/hunters license. Rangers wrote us a warning ticket for not having our own, but we are headed to Walmart to get one for about $30."
Seasonal availability: Most dispersed camping options near Henrico operate on limited schedules. Joe F. points out that Butner Lake WMA is "Only open during hunting seasons though," which restricts when visitors can access these sites.
Site layout and spacing: Many dispersed sites offer minimal privacy between camping spots. One camper describes the experience: "Sites are very close together, no privacy. Most campers are here to hunt so are gone most of the day. It was not crowded when I was there during the week."
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle and tent configurations: Sites typically accommodate limited equipment. Joe F. describes Butner Lake WMA sites as "perfect sites for 1 car and a tent," indicating families should plan for compact setups rather than expansive camping arrangements.
Basic amenities only: Families should prepare for truly primitive conditions at most dispersed sites. Max O. emphasizes this at Butner Lake WMA: "You have a fire ring and a line to hang things from thats about it here, really nice place to camp if youre comfortable not having a toilet."
First-timer friendly: Despite the primitive conditions, some dispersed camping areas are navigable even for those new to this style of camping. As S H. reports, "first time doing any type of dispersed camping but it was really easy to find, just off the road in the woods, just follow the coordinates."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large recreational vehicles face significant challenges at most dispersed sites near Henrico. Mike S. cautions about Butner Lake WMA: "This is a small road and if you had a camper of any size it would take you a while to turn around. Very few places. This is a place to pitch a tent or to Car Camp."
Limited turnaround space: Access roads to many dispersed sites are narrow with few opportunities to maneuver larger vehicles. While some RVers have managed, one visitor observed someone "come in with a 30 foot trailer, didn't think he would fit but found a spot just fine," suggesting careful navigation is required.
