Dispersed camping near Hopewell, Virginia offers opportunities primarily on public lands surrounding the Chickahominy and James Rivers. The area features lowland coastal plain topography with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level. During summer months, temperatures regularly reach 90°F with high humidity, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Most sites become muddy after rainfall due to the clay-based soil composition common in this region.
What to do
Fishing access points: The boat ramp at Eagle Nest Lookout provides direct water access. "If you are fishing, they pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass," reports one camper who visited in winter.
Hiking trails: Several unmarked paths wind through the forest areas. A visitor at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site mentioned, "Basic parking spot in quite location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best opportunities for spotting local species. "There is a raised area—about 20' above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two," notes a camper, describing an elevated vantage point for observing the surrounding habitat.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Most sites feature direct water access. "Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river," explains a winter visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout.
Seclusion options: While some areas see regular use from anglers, quieter spots exist throughout the WMAs. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water. Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with," shares a camper at Chickahominy WMA.
Natural setting: The undeveloped character appeals to those seeking primitive camping. "This is in the Chickahominy WMA on the far end and along the James River. There are 5,217 acres in Charles City County, Virginia. Mainly forested in the coastal plains of tidewater, Virginia," describes a visitor highlighting the extensive natural area available.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Virginia residents with hunting or fishing licenses camp free for 14 days; others pay $4 daily. "Camping here is free but there is a $4 daily use fee to be in the WMA that you can pay via phone, website or app tho the clunkiness of the website and app make it hard," advises a Chickahominy WMA camper.
Noise considerations: Several camping areas experience noise from nearby shooting ranges. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping. There are other areas though," warns an Eagle Nest Lookout visitor.
Trash management: Previous visitors sometimes leave debris behind. "It is a great shame that people would desecrate such a beautiful area with trash and a blatant disregard for others! We arrived and set up camp around 3pm. There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this are in which we picked up," reports a camper who experienced this issue at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose elevated spots away from high-traffic fishing areas. "You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to a small knoll. At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River," describes a camper detailing a more private location.
Weekend planning: Expect increased activity from hunters and anglers on weekends. "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side," notes a visitor about activity patterns at the WMAs.
Water safety: River currents can be strong and banks may be unstable. "The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place to for hiking," mentions a camper, highlighting that while water views are appealing, supervision is essential near shorelines.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Most sites accommodate only small trailers or RVs under 20 feet. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," reports one RVer who successfully navigated to a prime waterfront spot.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain with appropriate blocks. "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning," notes a car camper at Ware Creek WMA, suggesting that even smaller vehicles face positioning challenges.
No hookups available: All sites are completely primitive with no water, electric, or dump facilities. "No amenities but nice camping experience and you can purchase $4 daily pass or if Virginia residents free 14 days camping complementary as well with any fishing license or hunting license if you have," explains a camper summarizing the basic nature of these sites.
