Dispersed camping near New Point, Virginia occurs primarily within Wildlife Management Areas across Charles City County. Sites in these coastal plain areas range from sea level to approximately 20 feet elevation at some lookout points. Campers should prepare for tidewater conditions with variable terrain, humid summers, and cold winters, as many sites have direct access to major waterways including the James and Chickahominy Rivers.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Eagle Nest Lookout, water access provides excellent fishing conditions. One visitor reported seeing anglers land significant catches: "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."
Hiking and exploring: The Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA) offers extensive forest lands for exploration. The entire WMA encompasses over 5,200 acres of coastal forest habitat suitable for wildlife observation and nature walks.
Shoreline relaxation: Multiple sites provide direct water access for primitive camping. At several locations, campers can establish sites within feet of the water's edge, allowing for immediate river access and views.
What campers like
Waterfront camping: The proximity to water distinguishes many sites in the area. According to one camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA): "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water... The privacy and singularity of canning so close to the water made it a nice find."
Elevated camping options: Some sites offer multiple terrain options. One visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout noted: "There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river."
Solitude on weekdays: Weekday visitors often find greater privacy at these primitive sites. One camper mentioned: "We ended up having the place to ourselves once all the people Fishing left," highlighting the variable occupancy patterns.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Access to Virginia WMAs requires proper documentation. As one camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA) explains: "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."
Variable site conditions: Site amenities and conditions vary considerably. A camper noted: "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. No amenities but nice camping experience."
Shooting range noise: Noise from nearby shooting ranges affects some camping areas. A visitor reported: "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening."
Trash management: Several sites show evidence of previous use. One camper at Eagle Nest Lookout noted: "Unfortunately Trash was present but we walked around and picked up." This indicates visitors should be prepared to encounter and properly manage waste.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection matters: Certain areas provide better experiences for families seeking quiet camping. One visitor to Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area recommended: "Take advantage of your local wildlife areas," but noted arriving early helps secure optimal sites.
Consider weekday visits: Weekend activity levels affect family camping experiences. Multiple reviewers mention increased traffic from hunters, shooters, and anglers on weekends, with one noting: "In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping. There are other areas though."
Firewood preparation: Fire rings exist at some established sites, but firewood must be gathered. A camper reported: "I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed," suggesting families should plan time for firewood collection.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: Some sites accommodate modest RVs and trailers. A camper reported successfully setting up a "small (18') trailer" at one location, though access to some areas requires careful navigation.
No hookups or facilities: RVers must be entirely self-contained. There are no electric, water, or sewer connections at any of the primitive camping sites near New Point, and no dump stations are available within the immediate area.
Limited parking: Even at drive-in sites, space constraints exist. One camper described: "There are basically two parking or camping spot closest to the ramp partitioned by some rail timbers," indicating limited space for larger vehicles.
