Best Dispersed Camping near Mascot, VA
Dispersed camping opportunities exist in the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area near Mascot, Virginia. This 5,217-acre WMA in Charles City County features primitive camping along the James River and Chickahominy River. Eagle Nest Lookout provides waterfront camping with both shoreline sites for car camping and elevated areas for tent camping. The Chickahominy WMA contains approximately 15 cleared areas suitable for camping, with no established campgrounds or amenities.
A Virginia WMA permit is required for all visitors. Camping is free, but a $4 daily use fee applies, payable via phone or website. Virginia residents with a valid fishing or hunting license receive 14 days of complementary camping. Fires are permitted in established fire rings. No drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available on site. According to reviews, campers should be prepared to pack out all waste and practice Leave No Trace principles.
The area experiences moderate use, particularly from anglers. Several campers noted the presence of a shooting range nearby, with noise continuing into the evening hours. Weekend visitors should expect more activity from hunters and fishermen. The shoreline camping areas provide direct water access, with a small boat ramp available at Eagle Nest Lookout. One visitor reported: "There is a large shoreline area to car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site overlooking the river." The forested coastal plains offer hiking opportunities throughout the WMA, though some trails may be unmarked or minimally maintained. Visitors should bring adequate supplies, as no services exist within the immediate area.
