Dispersed camping near Midlothian, Virginia centers primarily around Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) within a 40-60 minute drive east toward the coastal plain. These primitive camping locations sit at low elevations, typically 10-30 feet above sea level, creating riverside camping opportunities along tidal waterways. Winter temperatures average 30-50°F while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable seasons for primitive camping.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Eagle Nest Lookout provides direct waterfront access for anglers with impressive catches reported. "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 Eagle Nest Lookout visitor.
Explore hiking trails: The forested coastal plains surrounding these camping areas offer walking paths through native hardwood forests. "Next morning we explored a trail in the area then headed out," reports a camper at Eagle Nest Lookout, highlighting the opportunity for morning exploration before departure.
Car camping: Several cleared spots accommodate vehicles directly adjacent to the water. "Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river," explains a winter visitor to Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area.
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Several locations offer both waterfront and higher-elevation options within the same area. "At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River. You are able to park down below and carry your gear the short distance," describes a camper at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Vehicle accessibility: Most sites can accommodate standard vehicles with minimal hiking required. "Basic parking spot in quite location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving," notes a visitor to Chickahominy WMA.
Multiple site options: The dispersed nature of these areas provides various camping spots rather than designated sites. "There are about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with. 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," explains a camper at Chickahominy WMA.
What you should know
Permit requirements: All visitors must obtain proper permits before camping in WMAs. "Camping here is free but there is a $4 daily use fee to be in the WMA that you can pay via phone, website or app tho the clunkiness of the website and app make it hard," explains a visitor to Chickahominy WMA.
Litter issues: Many reviewers mention trash problems requiring proactive cleanup. "The site had some trash unfortunately. But the privacy and singularity of canning so close to the water made it a nice find," notes a camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site.
Shooting range noise: The nearby hunting facilities can create significant noise disruption throughout the day. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping," warns a visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout.
Tips for camping with families
Consider weekday visits: Weekend traffic from day users can impact the camping experience. "Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people Fishing left," shares a camper at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Pack cleanup supplies: Given reported trash issues, bringing gloves and bags helps maintain sites. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up," mentions one family at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area.
Expect shared spaces: These areas serve multiple recreational purposes simultaneously. "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning," notes a Ware Creek WMA visitor, highlighting the car camping approach that works well for families arriving after dark.
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: Some sites can accommodate compact trailers with careful positioning. "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," reports an RVer at Chickahominy WMA, demonstrating the size limitations for trailer camping.
Scout before committing: Given the primitive access roads, preliminary site inspection is recommended. "This is the spot by the water. There was confusion because the other site on this app just takes you near the gun range and it is not by the water," advises a camper about navigating to the proper Eagle Nest location.
No hookups available: These dispersed camping areas lack all RV amenities requiring complete self-sufficiency. "No water, no toilet, Pack it in, Pack it out. LNT. There is a fire ring and a fire pit," explains a visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout, emphasizing the need for Leave No Trace practices.
