Campgrounds near Lightfoot, Virginia range from riverside settings to wooded sites within a 30-minute drive. The region sits at low elevation, typically below 100 feet above sea level, with mild winters and humid summers. Seasonal campers should prepare for peak mosquito activity from May through September, especially at waterfront sites.
What to do
Bike the Virginia Capital Trail: This paved path runs near Chickahominy Riverfront Park, connecting historic sites. "The campground is in a great location to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestowne, and Yorktown and is a great home base for exploring those sites," notes Ashleigh M.
Fishing from dedicated piers: Access the water at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay where fishing spots are plentiful. "There is a dock down by the boat ramp. It says no fishing. Wait until dark and ignore the sign. There's a light down there that draws the insects. The fish are everywhere," shares Patrick R.
Visit historic plantation grounds: Tour working farms and historic buildings at Chippokes State Park Campground. "The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day and how they can survive into the future," according to Rose H.
What campers like
Level, maintained sites: Many campers appreciate the practicality of well-prepared sites at Anvil Campground. "Spacious Sites, Full Hookups. Kids Enjoyed the Playground & Arcade. Safe & Secure Spot. 100% will visit again," reports Giancarlo M.
Water access for kayaking: Paddlers enjoy direct water entry points at multiple campgrounds. "Spacious campsite with amazing views. Could take kayaks straight into the water from our site. Close to Jamestown and many other activities! Our only regret is not staying longer," writes Liz M. about Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Clean facilities: Newer campgrounds offer modern amenities. "Machicomoco State Park is one of Virginia's brand-new parks in a great location on the York River! All the facilities are new and very clean. I love that the campground bathrooms are all unisex/family bathrooms and there are plenty of them," reports Katie M.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Some campgrounds experience significant seasonal issues. "We arrived on opening day (March 19, 2021) for the season. They had unfortunately been a victim of the rain and the main road to the campground had washed out. Alternative routes were set up to enter and exit," explains Brenda L. about Thousand Trails Williamsburg.
Noise factors: Train tracks run close to several campgrounds in the area. "The cabin we stayed in was about 15 feet from the tracks. Not really a complaint from us since the kids thought it was awesome. So, just a heads up on the trains. They are loud and they are often," warns Bridget H.
Site differences: Campgrounds often have distinct sections for different camping styles. "The non-electric sites are in little loops off the main road. You have to park on the road and walk all your gear in. It's not very far though, I counted about 100 steps to site 13, the one farthest from the road," notes Katie M. about glamping near Lightfoot, Virginia.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for summer visits: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming options for kids. "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 Cart friendly. The grandkids loved all the water slides and met such wonderful people," shares Jennifer G. about Bethpage Camp-Resort.
Military base camping option: Service members have additional choices. "Beautiful area with views of the York River. Tons of cabins and house rentals along with RV and tent camping sights. It is located on a military base so access is limited to those with base access," reports Summer M. about Kings Creek.
Plan for shade: Some sites offer limited protection from summer heat. "We had a very hot stay. We stayed at campsite 13 which had wonderful shade in the late afternoon. Be prepared with a wagon to transport items from your car to your campsite if choosing the no water/electric sites," advises Kaylee G.
Tips from RVers
Dump station considerations: Check specific facilities before arrival. "The ONLY complaint I can think of is the water hose at the dump station was cut off, so I couldn't run my in take sprinkler to clean the tank out often using the dump station," notes Kevin M.
Bring leveling equipment: Site terrain varies significantly across campgrounds. "Site was gravel but level. The campground is very close to all Williamsburg activities. A great walking trail was right down the road. My only complaint if there was one would be the sites could have been a little farther apart," explains Barb S.
Check hookup quality: Electrical systems may need protection at older facilities. "The electrical hook ups were all busted up, (I would not recommend using it without a surge guard), the water faucets leaked and the ground was soaked," warns TJ M. about glamping accommodations near Rockahock.
