Camping options around Mascot, Virginia provide varied experiences for RVers and tent campers alike. The coastal plain elevation of the Tidewater region ranges from sea level to about 250 feet, creating gentle terrain for camping with mild winters and warm, humid summers. Water access is a defining feature with the Chesapeake Bay, York River, and Rappahannock River offering numerous fishing and boating opportunities at campgrounds throughout the region.
What to do
Crabbing excursions: The pier at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay provides dedicated crabbing opportunities. "We had never been crabbing and this beautiful rv park has its own crabbing pier. There is boating, hiking, watching wild life and so many pretty birds," notes camper Mike T.
Historical exploration: The area's rich colonial history creates unique educational opportunities. "Location was great and we loved going into Colonial Williamsburg from here," shares a visitor to American Heritage RV Park. For military history enthusiasts, The Colonies RV and Travel Park sits on historic grounds, where "While there you must check out the Fort Monroe Casement Museum."
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds feature water activities beyond swimming pools. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, "We enjoyed the site Mulberry 2A that was a full hookup and a patio...backed to the lake," according to Robert P. The resort also offers "kayaking available" and "small beach" access for varied water activities.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV parks feature comfortable spacing between sites. Bethpage Camp-Resort offers "spacious lots" that are "very secluded" according to reviews. At Grey's Point Camp, "The sites are spacious and always clean when we arrive," reports Cathy F.
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate designated areas for children. Bethpage Camp-Resort is "kid friendly which is something we're always looking for," says Wendy D., who adds, "We had so much fun and there is quite a bit to do." The resort includes "splash pad-fun for small children" and "multiple kids playgrounds."
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds organize special events throughout camping seasons. "Casino night was a blast!" notes Michael B. about Bethpage Camp-Resort. At Grey's Point, they maintain activities even during challenging times: "They did a great job social distancing the management, while maintaining CDC guidelines even for activities...We attended the movie night drive in."
What you should know
Varied site conditions: Site quality can differ significantly even within a single campground. At Rockahock Campgrounds, "Our site had a nice brick pad, which was convenient and a good bit of space behind the trailer," though other areas may have challenges as "the water faucets leaked and the ground was soaked."
Service limitations: Cell reception and internet access vary greatly. At Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay, "Wi-Fi is spotty at best," while at Fort AP Hill's military campground, one visitor notes there's "limited cell service (StarLink or similar is your best option)."
Access restrictions: Some camping areas have specific entry requirements. Military Park Fort AP Hill requires appropriate credentials as "must have proper government ID to access post," and occasionally "you hear military field training going on (live ranges, helicopters, and ospreys - but I don't mind)."
Tips for camping with families
Resort-style options: For comprehensive family experiences, consider campgrounds with multiple amenities. Bethpage Camp-Resort features "Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park- amazing," according to one reviewer who calls it "Our favorite camp-resort yet!"
Entertainment for different ages: Look for campgrounds with varied activities for children of different age groups. Thousand Trails Williamsburg offers "great amenities. Indoor and outdoor pools. Decent spacing between sites," and provides "many activities scheduled on the weekends. Lots of families camping."
Budget considerations: Some family-friendly amenities may require additional fees. At Bethpage Camp-Resort, "Golf carts were difficult to reserve" and "were only available for pickup at 1/2pm the day of your rental(Kind of a waste)," according to a visitor who still gave it 5 stars.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Some RV parks offer premium sites worth the upgrade. At American Heritage RV Park, one visitor recommends "premium site[s]. The site was perfectly level, clean and well maintained." Another visitor to Thousand Trails Harbor View advises checking site conditions, as "Gravel site pad could definitely use some maintenance and fresh material added. Had to put down boards to park our travel trailer because about a third of the pad had just turned into mud."
Seasonal timing: Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better experiences. For Thousand Trails Harbor View, one camper advises, "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen." Weather conditions at The Colonies RV and Travel Park can affect enjoyment as "The weather was nice. You are surrounded by water."
Leveling requirements: Many RV parks in the region require leveling equipment. While American Heritage RV Park offers "concrete pad sites with full hookup and shaded by tall pine trees," other parks may have challenges. At Thousand Trails Williamsburg, sites are "close, many are not level, not very big rig friendly."
