Primitive camping near Lackey, Virginia centers primarily around Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) that offer rustic outdoor experiences along riverfront locations. These areas provide minimal facilities for campers seeking solitude in natural environments. Hunters and anglers frequently utilize these sites throughout the year, particularly during hunting seasons when activity increases substantially.
What to do
Fishing from shore: At Eagle Nest Lookout, campers can fish directly from their campsite area. "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," notes one visitor who observed successful catches.
Hiking nearby trails: The WMAs contain multiple unmarked paths through coastal forest terrain. "Next morning we explored a trail in the area then headed out," reports a camper about Eagle Nest Lookout. The forested areas provide opportunities to spot local wildlife and native plant species.
Boating access: The primitive boat ramps at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site allow small watercraft access to the river system. "There is a boat ramp of sorts just below the campsite," mentions a reviewer, making these locations suitable for kayakers and canoeists.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: Campers consistently value the ability to camp extremely close to the water. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," reports one Chickahominy WMA visitor who appreciated the direct river access.
Multiple site options: The undeveloped nature of the areas means campers can choose from various spots. "This place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with," notes a Chickahominy WMA camper who found numerous suitable locations.
Elevated camping spots: Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area and other WMAs feature higher ground options with views. "Right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river," explains a camper who appreciated having both shoreline and elevated camping options.
What you should know
Permit requirements: All visitors to Wildlife Management Areas must have proper permits. "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 Chickahominy WMA visitor.
Shooting range noise: Several dispersed camping areas near Lackey experience noise from nearby shooting ranges. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening," warns an Eagle Nest Lookout camper.
Trash issues: Unfortunately, litter problems occur at these primitive sites. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up," reports one Eagle Nest Lookout visitor who helped clean the site upon arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection for privacy: Choose locations away from popular fishing spots for quieter family camping. "If you're looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area," suggests an Eagle Nest Lookout visitor who found their initial spot received regular daytime visitors.
Weekend versus weekday considerations: Weekends bring more visitors, affecting the camping experience. "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side," explains a camper, indicating weekdays offer more solitude for families.
Elevated campsites for safety: With small children, consider the raised camping areas away from water. "As a bonus 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 ideal family setup.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: The unpaved access roads limit RV size considerably. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," reports a Chickahominy WMA visitor, suggesting only compact trailers can navigate these areas successfully.
Overnight parking strategies: Some RVers find car camping works well at these primitive sites. "Car camped here 5 feet from the water," notes one visitor, while another mentions, "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4."
Generator restrictions: Unlike some dispersed camping areas, generator use may not be permitted in all locations. One camper noted issues with inconsiderate generator users, stating some "ran their generators up until 4:30 am. Very uncool and inconsiderate."
