Morattico camping options range from primitive tent sites to luxury waterfront resorts along the Rappahannock River and Chesapeake Bay. The coastal lowlands feature a mix of maritime forests and marshy inlets, with summer humidity levels often exceeding 80%. Most campgrounds in the area remain open April through November, though several offer year-round availability with seasonal rate adjustments.
What to do
Water recreation on the Rappahannock: At Cross Rip Camp, campers have direct access to kayaking, canoeing and sailing. "Catherine and Rebecca are the best. They were flexible with our dates for tent camping. They provided kayaks, canoes, sailboats, beach chairs, bikes and so much more," notes one visitor who enjoyed exploring the river.
Fossil hunting: The shoreline near Westmoreland State Park Campground is known for prehistoric shark teeth. A recent visitor shared, "We came from Pa/De and wanted to look for sharks teeth. It was beautiful here so we decided to stay the night." The park maintains a fossil display in their visitor center showing common finds.
Crabbing and fishing: Multiple fishing piers and boat launches provide access to seasonal catches. According to a camper at Rainbow Acres, "Rainbow acres is a nice little campground that is the perfect get away. Its quiet and right on the Mattaponi River." Many campgrounds rent crab traps and sell bait on-site.
What campers like
Private waterfront sites: Campers consistently praise sites with unobstructed water views. "We enjoyed the site Mulberry 2A that was a full hookup and a patio...backed to the lake," explains a visitor to Bethpage Camp-Resort. Waterfront sites typically cost $10-20 more per night but offer direct water access.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are frequently mentioned in reviews. A camper at Grey's Point Camp noted, "We had great time at Grey's Point campground and would love to go again. The had great staff, clean restrooms, and great views of the Rappahannck River."
Multi-generational activities: Campgrounds offering diverse recreation options receive higher ratings. "We had a wonderful time here. We enjoyed all the family activities there are to do. We went bike riding and also enjoyed that this campground is Golf Carr friendly. The grandkids loved all the water slides and met such wonderful people," shared a reviewer about their glamping experience near Morattico.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate April through November with limited off-season availability. One visitor to Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay mentioned, "I'm bad with names, I must say very nice people I stayed a little over a month here." Reservations for summer weekends should be made 3-6 months in advance.
Transportation options: Several campgrounds require golf carts for getting around. "This campground is about 3/4 year rounders. People who rent a campsite and build porches and party sites up and come visit on the weekend or stay the summer," notes a visitor to Rainbow Acres. Golf cart rentals average $50-75 per day when available.
Noise levels: Train tracks run near some campgrounds, creating periodic noise. One camper warned, "No privacy and golf carts zooming around at all hours." Weekend activity levels increase substantially at most locations during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety equipment: Bring life jackets for children as many glamping sites in Morattico, Virginia are situated near open water. A camper at Bethpage Camp-Resort shared, "Great campground for the family, endless hours spent in the lake. Sites are nice size and well maintained."
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "We loved this place! I has everything you need and more!! Pros- Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park- amazing, spacious lots, very secluded, splash pad-fun for small children," reported a family who stayed at Bethpage.
Activity planning: Research scheduled events before arrival. A visitor at Anvil Campground noted, "I've visited twice in the last 8 months... We can't wait to return in the summer when the pool is open and they serve cool treats for the kids!" Most family-oriented campgrounds post their activity calendars online 2-4 weeks in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request specific site information when booking. "Spots are close together so you will get to meet your neighbors if they are there. You can rent yearly spots if you want. Some spots back up against the water," advises an RVer who stayed at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay.
Setup considerations: Prepare for varied site conditions. "We stayed in Sycamore 09. The site was clean and level. No fire pit or grill, so plan ahead," warns a camper at Bethpage Camp-Resort. Some campgrounds have restrictions on outdoor rugs and structures.
Utility connections: Multiple hookup locations provide flexibility. "Sewer is in 2 locations for each site. WiFi available," notes a visitor. Cell service can be spotty in some areas, particularly for T-Mobile users.
