Camping options near Carrollton, Virginia range from military facilities to family-oriented resorts with varied terrain. The coastal Virginia region experiences mild winters with occasional frost and hot, humid summers where temperatures typically reach 85-90°F. Summer camping in this area requires preparation for high humidity and occasional thunderstorms, particularly at waterfront locations.
What to do
Beach access options: At Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park, military families can enjoy proximity to quieter beaches. "This campground is located at the Fort Story Navy Base, set in a wooded area not far from a nice beach right at the corner of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic," notes one visitor.
Water recreation: Bethpage Camp-Resort features extensive water activities beyond standard swimming. "Water park- amazing, spacious lots, very secluded, splash pad-fun for small children, small beach, kayaking available," explains a camper who rated the facility highly.
Historical exploration: The region's military history provides educational opportunities. "While there you must check out the Fort Monroe Casement Museum. You have water on two sides with excellent walking area," suggests a reviewer about the historic surroundings at the Colonies RV Park.
What campers like
Waterfront locations: Grey's Point Camp earns praise for its riverfront setting. "Great campground on a hill, overlooking the rappahannock river. We stayed here Sept 2020 during tropical storm and covid, lol. Was a great safe location in port of storm, the sites mostly drained well," shares one camper.
Military base amenities: Cheatham Annex RV Campground offers recreation beyond standard camping. "There are more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing on two lakes and the York River along with an 18 hole golf course," notes a reviewer about this military facility.
Seasonal decorations: Holiday theming enhances some campgrounds seasonally. "The place is was clean and had really cool Halloween decorations. There is also a viewing deck with lounge chairs to watch the sunset over the creek side," writes a camper about their October visit to The Colonies.
What you should know
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds have terrain challenges. At American Heritage RV Park, larger rigs face specific difficulties: "We also saw another camper with a rig identical to ours struggle to get into a back-in site, ultimately hitting a water faucet across the road, leaving the park without water for over two hours."
Noise considerations: Military installations have unique sound patterns. "Expect to hear aircraft all the time. You get used to it quickly, but can be loud," explains a Little Creek RV Park visitor about the base environment.
Variable internet access: Connectivity varies significantly between locations. One Williamsburg area camper noted: "Cellular signal and Starlink won't work well here and the campground WiFi isn't great. But in the true spirit of camping, this is a great place to disconnect."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities planning: Thousand Trails Williamsburg provides water facilities regardless of weather. "Every member of staff is very friendly and welcoming. It is a serene campground with beautiful walking trails. All the amenities for our two toddlers too… big pool outside, plus an inside pool and hottub," shares a family visitor.
Entertainment options: Schedule activities around planned events for maximum value. "Many activities scheduled on the weekends. Lots of families camping. Indoor and outdoor pools. Decent spacing between sites," advises a family who frequented this Williamsburg area campground.
Site selection strategy: For tent campers seeking privacy at waterfront locations: "Hint: for more privacy (tent campers) ask for site 6 or 7," suggests a camper at The Colonies RV Park, providing specific site recommendations based on experience.
Tips from RVers
Hookup configurations: RV campgrounds near Carrollton, Virginia often require additional equipment. "Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) on sites; some have fire pits, some don't. Also the connection boxes are set back pretty far on the sites, so you need longer hoses/cords. We had a long electric cord that reached and had to add a second water hose and second section of sewer hose to connect."
Pad types: Concrete pads provide better stability during rainy periods. "Our site was very nice site#10, a leveled concrete site with room to park our towed vehicle while still attached to our Motor Home. We also had a level concrete patio with a picnic table."
Winter stays: Some rv campgrounds in Carrollton's surrounding area offer affordable extended winter options. "Pricey in the summer time, but they have a monthly winter rate $756 (not proratable) from October 1 thru April 30," mentions a long-term visitor about seasonal pricing variations.
