Pocahontas State Park offers varied camping options within 20 miles of Mechanicsville, Virginia, situated in the coastal plains where elevations range from 50 to 150 feet above sea level. The area experiences humid subtropical climate with average summer temperatures around 87°F and winter lows near 28°F. Most campgrounds in this region remain open year-round, though facilities like swimming pools typically operate from late May through early September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lake Anna State Park Campground provides multiple fishing piers with comfortable seating areas. As one camper notes, "It has great hiking trails, a small 'beach', a lake to fish in, & multiple really nice playgrounds for kids. Tons of amenities."
Biking trails: The Virginia Capital Trail runs near Chickahominy Riverfront Park, providing miles of paved paths. A visitor mentioned, "I opted to leave the bikes at home, not knowing this campground also caters to people riding the Virginia Creeper bike trail!!! it went for miles and was beautiful!!!"
Water recreation: Multiple water activities are available at many parks. One reviewer at Powhatan State Park Campground shared, "Over 1500 acres with 40 sites, this trip was the start of the camping season for me. The park has lots of trails, miles of open meadows, and James River access. Great park for bicycling."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate well-spaced sites at Westmoreland State Park Campground. A reviewer stated, "The tent sites are awesome and mine have always been pretty private feeling despite being somewhat near others. Bathhouses are always SO clean and heated in the winter."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness is consistently mentioned across parks. At Powhatan State Park, a camper noted, "I was very happy to see such a clean bathhouse, especially during the current pandemic. Each staff member I encountered was extremely helpful and polite."
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings provide a natural escape. A visitor to Pocahontas State Park shared, "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: While most parks operate year-round, amenities change with seasons. A winter visitor to Westmoreland State Park explained, "Went in March 2018 for my birthday, when it was still VERY cold, but had a wonderful time. The beaches and trails seem so much more peaceful and untouched this time of year. Definitely gets windy near the river."
Boat traffic: Some waterfront campgrounds experience early morning boat activity. At Chickahominy Riverfront Park, a camper observed, "The bad news- the place is overrun with fishermen launching boats before dawn. And I mean 25-50 trucks/trailers/boats each morning."
Wildlife encounters: Expect to see various animals during your glamping stay. One camper at Pocahontas reported, "We saw a fat raccoon, daring squirrels, a turtle, and vultures. There are gorgeous, HARMLESS, garden spiders that are shockingly large and bright yellow."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and pools: When seeking luxury glamping in Mechanicsville, check for family amenities. A visitor to Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA shared, "This is a great place for families with children, young and old! Kid friendly biking around the park. Also saw many with electric scooters and golf carts. Large playground and pool, all very clean and well kept."
Junior Ranger programs: Some parks offer educational opportunities for children. At Westmoreland, a camper noted, "With access to the Potomac River, beaches, shark tooth island (!), what seems like endless beautiful hiking trails and the cleanest camp grounds I have ever seen I would recommend everyone to visit this park."
Biking safety: For family biking, consider campground layout. At Kings Dominion KOA, a reviewer mentioned, "Bus shuttle service to Kings Dominion. Clean and well kept," which helps families avoid driving to nearby attractions.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Know what utilities are available before booking. At Pocahontas State Park Campground, an RVer noted, "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history. LOVE the staff. 20 mins from every store you can imagine, but super quiet at night. Sites are well spaced."
Site leveling: Pay attention to site conditions when glamping near Mechanicsville. A Kings Dominion KOA visitor mentioned, "Clean campground, friendly staff. Somewhat tight spots. Stayed for a week or so, not a bad place to be, quiet."
Accessibility: Some campgrounds offer ADA accommodations. One camper at Lake Anna State Park observed, "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."
