Best Dispersed Camping near New Kent, VA
The New Kent, Virginia area features primarily dispersed camping options concentrated in wildlife management areas along waterways. Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area spans over 5,200 acres of coastal plain forest in Charles City County, offering primitive camping with waterfront access along the James River. Eagle Nest Lookout provides a notable camping spot with elevated views of the James River, accessible via a short trail from parking areas. Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area rounds out the local options with similar primitive camping opportunities. These sites lack developed facilities but appeal to those seeking natural settings with water access for fishing and paddling activities.
Permits and regulations govern camping in these wildlife management areas. Virginia residents can camp for up to 14 days with a valid fishing or hunting license, while non-residents must purchase a $4 daily pass through phone, website, or app. As one camper noted, "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." The sites feature no amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service, requiring visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles. Nearby shooting ranges can create noise during daytime hours, particularly on weekends. Road access varies but generally accommodates standard vehicles, with some sites allowing car camping directly along shorelines.
Waterfront camping represents the primary draw for visitors to these areas. Campers report being able to set up "within 5 feet of the water" with "a large shoreline area to car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river." Fishing is popular, with some visitors using the sites primarily as fishing access points. Several reviews mention issues with trash and occasional noise from other visitors, including generators running late into the night. The dual-use nature of these areas means campers may share space with day-use visitors, particularly fishermen. Despite these challenges, the scenic water views and natural setting continue to attract campers seeking primitive experiences close to water.
