Dispersed camping opportunities near Millwood, Virginia focus on primitive wilderness experiences across several Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). These sites require minimal preparation and offer rustic experiences with little or no amenities. The sites span coastal plain forests with elevations typically under 100 feet, creating terrain suitable for various skill levels. Camping is concentrated around waterways including the James and Chickahominy Rivers, with water access a key feature at most locations.
What to do
Fishing access: Multiple spots in Chickahominy WMA provide direct water access for anglers. "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 camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site.
Shoreline exploration: The WMAs contain miles of undeveloped shoreline for wildlife observation. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a visitor reports: "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."
Hiking trails: Several unmarked but navigable trails exist throughout the management areas. "The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place to for hiking," according to one Eagle Nest Lookout visitor.
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Some sites offer higher ground options with views. One camper at Chickahominy WMA notes: "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."
Waterfront proximity: The ability to camp very close to water is frequently mentioned. At Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area, campers appreciate the water access: "Take advantage of your local wildlife areas," states one review with a 4-star rating.
Flexible site selection: Many areas allow campers to choose their specific spot within designated zones. "Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with," mentions a Chickahominy WMA visitor.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Virginia WMAs typically require permits. "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," reports a Chickahominy camper.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience noise from nearby shooting ranges. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a camper warns: "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."
Site cleanliness: Visitors report variable conditions regarding trash. "Used by fisherman shore fishing and unfortunately Trash was present but we walked around and picked up," notes one camper at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Tips for camping with families
Look for elevated sites: Higher spots provide better separation from fishing activity. A camper at Eagle Nest Lookout advises: "If your looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area. Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people Fishing left."
Consider timing: Weekends can bring more visitors and noise from shooting ranges. "Not bad! Basic parking spot in quite location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side," shares a Chickahominy WMA visitor.
Monitor water access: Some locations have steep approaches to water. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a visitor describes: "This is in the Chickahominy WMA on the far end and along the James River...You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to a small knoll."
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: The primitive nature of sites limits RV options. One Chickahominy WMA camper shares: "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water." Larger RVs may find access and turnaround difficult.
Weather considerations: Unpaved access roads can become problematic in wet conditions. "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, suggesting vehicle-based camping is viable but potentially challenging.
