The Jamestown, Virginia area offers multiple primitive camping options within Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) along the Chickahominy and James Rivers. These rustic camping sites provide direct water access with minimal development and require self-sufficiency from visitors. Virginia's WMAs contain designated camping areas that range from waterfront locations to elevated sites with river views.
What to do
Fishing access: Eagle Nest Lookout provides direct waterfront access for fishing enthusiasts. As one visitor observed, "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. Used by fishermen shore fishing." The site has become popular for both conventional fishing and newer methods.
Wildlife observation: Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area encompasses over 5,000 acres of mostly forested coastal plain habitat. The diverse ecosystem supports various wildlife viewing opportunities throughout its network of clearings and water access points.
Water exploration: Ware Creek WMA offers more remote camping options accessible by water. A recent camper noted they "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning." The creek system provides opportunities for paddling and exploring the tidal waterways.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Campers appreciate the ability to camp directly beside the water. One visitor to Chickahominy WMA shared, "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."
Elevated sites: The terrain at Eagle Nest Lookout provides options beyond shoreline camping. A camper described, "At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River. You are able to park down below and carry your gear the short distance."
Solitude opportunities: While some areas see regular use by fishermen, patient campers can find quiet periods. One review mentioned, "If your looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area. Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people Fishing left."
What you should know
Noise considerations: The proximity to shooting ranges affects the camping experience at certain times. One camper at Eagle Nest Lookout cautioned, "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."
Trash management: Several reviews mention encountering trash at campsites. One visitor reported, "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up." Bringing extra trash bags helps maintain the areas and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Fee system: Virginia residents with fishing or hunting licenses receive camping benefits. A camper clarified, "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. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose sites away from high-traffic fishing areas for a more controlled family experience. At Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area, the more remote access points require additional planning but offer more predictable environments.
Elevated camping: Consider the higher ground options at Eagle Nest Lookout for families. A camper described, "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."
Weekend awareness: Visitor patterns change significantly on weekends. One camper reported, "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by." Plan accordingly if seeking quieter family time by visiting midweek.
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: The rustic camping near Jamestown accommodates only smaller RVs and trailers. A visitor with a trailer shared their experience: "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water." The access roads and parking areas cannot accommodate larger rigs.
Level parking: Eagle Nest Lookout has limited but workable parking for small trailers. A camper noted, "There are basically two parking or camping spot closest to the ramp partitioned by some rail timbers." Arrive early to secure the most level spaces.
Generator awareness: Noise carries across the waterfront areas. One camper experienced disturbance: "To add insult to injury this group ran their generators up until 4:30 am. Very uncool and inconsiderate." Follow proper generator etiquette if camping with one.
