Northern Virginia's Montross area sits in Virginia's Northern Neck peninsula between the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers at about 100 feet above sea level. The region experiences mild winters and humid summers with temperatures averaging 89°F in July and 30°F in January. Most RV campgrounds near Montross remain open from April to mid-November, with a few offering year-round service.
What to do
Fossil hunting at beaches: Visit Westmoreland State Park near Thousand Trails Harbor View for fossil exploration. "Great trails and fossil beach was fun... We will absolutely be back!" reported one camper who enjoyed the park's proximity to the campground.
Crabbing from dedicated piers: Crabbing opportunities abound at waterfront campgrounds in the region. "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," wrote one visitor about their experience at nearby waterfront camping areas.
Historic site exploration: George Washington's Birthplace National Monument sits near Colonial Beach. As one camper noted, "Right down the road from George Washington's birthplace," making it convenient for history enthusiasts staying at nearby RV parks.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront sites: Many campers appreciate Bethpage Camp-Resort for its generous site layouts. "Sites are spacious! Golf cart rentals, pool is incredible for all ages. Sewer is in 2 locations for each site," noted one reviewer, highlighting practical features for RV setups.
Family-oriented amenities: Water activities remain popular during summer months. "We love this place! It has everything you need and more!! Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park- amazing," wrote a family who stayed at one of the region's larger resorts.
Shaded campsites: Tree coverage provides welcome relief during hot months. "All the sites are very shady, which certainly comes in handy in the Virginia heat," explained one camper about the natural shade features at a Colonial Beach camping area.
What you should know
Seasonal operating schedules: Most RV parks in the Northern Neck operate April through November. "We stayed here for two nights at the end of April. All the sites are very shady," noted a camper visiting during the early season when crowds are lighter.
Site selection considerations: At Grey's Point Camp, placement affects experience. "We stayed in Spadefish 3 which was right next to the pool and playground," mentioned a visitor, showing how location within the campground impacts convenience and noise levels.
Cellular connectivity: Service varies by provider. "I work full-time remote and the Verizon service was perfect with our hotspot," shared one digital nomad who stayed in the area, while other campgrounds report inconsistent cellular coverage.
Reservations essential: Popular resorts fill quickly, especially during summer. "Would give it 4 stars for the hookups and friendly staff but we were welcomed to our site with pile of dog poop that had been left there," reported one camper about arrival conditions, highlighting why early reservations can secure better site options.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Bethpage Camp-Resort offers extensive water recreation. "The lake and pools are fantastic. We love having both options for spending some time in the water. The playgrounds are large and fun for the younger kids," wrote one family camper about the multi-age facilities.
Activity planning: Schedule around organized events at campgrounds. "Sweet Justice played this year on the Saturday we were there....phenomenal band....we had an awesome time. Can't wait to go back!" shared an enthusiastic camper about entertainment options.
Golf cart transportation: Many Northern Neck campgrounds are sprawling. "Bring your golf cart or rent one there," advised one visitor at Americamps RV Resort, noting how larger properties require transportation for comfortable navigation.
Tips from RVers
Leveling equipment: Bring extra leveling blocks for uneven sites. "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," reported an RVer at one Colonial Beach location.
Full hookup availability: Most parks offer full connections with varying amp service. At American Heritage RV Park, "All the sites were level, gravel, and had good shade. Hook ups also included cable with about 70 channels," according to a satisfied RVer describing site amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings heavy pollen. "If you have allergies, avoid spring. EVERYTHING outside was covered in a light haze of pollen. I worked outside several days and had to wipe my computer off a couple times a day," warned one RV camper about seasonal challenges in the region.
Site navigation: Tight access roads affect larger rigs. "Roads are tight. Golf carts were difficult to reserve," cautioned a visitor about maneuvering challenges at some of the more densely wooded RV campgrounds near Montross, Virginia.
