Campsites near Suffolk, Virginia range from waterfront locations to forested retreats with varying levels of privacy and amenities. Suffolk's coastal location means summer humidity is substantial, with temperatures commonly reaching 85-90°F during peak camping season. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, making year-round camping possible with proper gear.
What to do
Lake activities: Fishing and swimming can be enjoyed at Davis Lakes Resort where one camper noted, "The lakes are fun and we always have a great time. Some sites are amazing. Only 4 stars because of proximity to highway." The resort offers several small lakes for recreation throughout the warmer months.
Hiking through historic sites: Newport News Park features an extensive trail network with Civil War historical sites. According to a visitor, "The park is a civil war historic site and is close to a lot of other historic places." With miles of trails under a heavy tree canopy, it's ideal for history buffs and nature enthusiasts.
Kayaking in cypress swamps: At Merchants Millpond State Park, visitors can explore unique wetland environments. One camper described it as "a total unique experience. Turtles, birds, cypress trees, and alligators." The park offers canoe rentals for exploring the pond and surrounding swamps.
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Chippokes State Park Campground gets high marks for its wooded sites. A reviewer mentioned, "Large campsites. Well maintained. Got last available site & never felt crowded. Pool fee included with campsite." The campground's mature trees provide natural cooling during hot summer months.
Clean facilities: Sites with modern amenities receive consistent praise. At First Landing State Park Campground, one camper highlighted, "Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk." The park maintains regular cleaning schedules for bathhouses and common areas.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds in the region typically cater to families. A visitor to Holiday Trav-L-Park noted, "We enjoyed biking all over the place (including a family-friendly bike trail to the VB boardwalk), playing on the many small playgrounds, swimming in the dome-covered pool, playing mini-golf, and enjoying our time."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings mosquitoes and high humidity. At Newport News Park, a camper observed, "Stayed 21 days (max limit) in June and temps at our site (B46) averaged about 5-10 degrees cooler than out side the park." This temperature difference makes forested campgrounds preferable during summer months.
Site conditions vary: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. One camper at Newport News Park pointed out, "The sites are quiet, very spacious, nicely spaced, some surprisingly so, but many are deceptively unlevel, particularly on the outside of the loops, and are heavily wooded."
Reservations needed: Isle of Wight Family Campground and other popular locations fill quickly during peak seasons. One visitor shared, "They have on-site bathrooms/showers as well as laundry. It's mostly RV spots but they also allow tent camping and have a couple cabins available for rent."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Davis Lakes Resort provides kid-friendly swimming areas. A visitor mentioned, "There is a lake with a swimming area and a snack bar. The fishing is year-round." The small lakes are typically shallow and warm quickly in summer.
Multi-generational camping: Extended family groups find Chippokes State Park accommodating. One camper shared, "My extended family has been camping here for years. The facilities are great and there is easy access to the beach."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have better security than others. At Holiday Trav-L-Park, cell service is reliable and the campground is well-lit at night, though one camper noted, "Some people in the campground started BLARING music at 2am and just partying hard. Tried to contact ANYONE to make it stop, but no one ever answered phones."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: At Davis Lakes Resort, most sites offer full hookups. A visitor explained, "The camp grounds have RV sites and cabins but no tent camping. We have stayed several times as my son and his family live in the area. The staff is very accommodating and friendly."
Leveling challenges: Many Suffolk-area campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Newport News Park, a camper advised, "Make sure you have leveling chalks as some of the sites are too uneven for auto leveling to work. We had a 32' class c rig and had no problems other than the auto leveling not working."
Road conditions: Access roads at some campgrounds may be tight with low-hanging branches. One RVer at Newport News Park noted, "There are a lot of low hanging branches on the roads through the park and it is showing some signs of age."
