Tent camping near New Point, Virginia provides coastal camping access to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. The area features sandy shorelines with mixed pine and hardwood forests typical of Virginia's Middle Peninsula region. Winter camping offers reduced insects but requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, while summer brings higher humidity and temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling: Sandy Bottom Nature Park offers affordable boat rentals for exploring the freshwater lake. "This park has plenty of camping spots and also has some yurts that are available to rent out. There are kayaks and paddle boats you can rent by the hour," notes Brandon W. in his Sandy Bottom Nature Park review.
Wildlife viewing: The 456-acre Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides opportunities to observe native species. According to Gracie B., "Lots of hiking trails to walk & turtles in the lake!! It was so pretty & so fun. We took out two dogs with us too."
Hiking trail exploration: Multiple trails wind through coastal forests and wetlands. "There are miles of trails around the lake and through the woods you can follow. It is extremely dog friendly with a fenced in dog park as well," shares a visitor to Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
What campers like
Private beach access: Campers appreciate the undeveloped shoreline areas. At Wisteria Beach Hideaway, one reviewer notes, "Terrific campsite we found on HipCamp. Super close to a few different beaches. The bug screen and hammock that are part of the site was so appreciated."
Lakeside camping spots: Sites positioned near water features provide scenic views. "The tent cabins sit right on the edge of the lake," explains N.I. about Sandy Bottom's accommodations, adding that the individual sites are "placed a short distance from the trail so hikers will not be hiking through the sites."
Fire pit amenities: Well-designed fire areas enhance cooking options. RL's review mentions, "Really nice fire pit!" at Wisteria Beach Hideaway, making outdoor meal preparation more convenient.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds have specific booking procedures. For Sandy Bottom Nature Park, liz J. explains, "Sites are first come, first served. Must reserve in person. Visitor's center is open 9-6."
Insect conditions: Biting flies can affect beach areas depending on season and wind. "Due to a lack of wind, flies were bad on the beach. I would recommend bringing an insect screen if you have it," advises a Wisteria Beach Hideaway camper.
Walk-in requirements: Tent sites may require hiking from parking areas. "The sites were located about 1/4 mile from the parking lot down a trail. They were spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate," reports liz J.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Family-friendly boating activities are available at certain parks. "We've never camped here but we lived about 5 minutes down the road from the park and absolutely loved it. I would recommend this spot to anyone who wants a convenient family friendly camping/outdoor experience," writes Brandon W. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider the distance to facilities when camping with children. One camper notes, "The bathrooms were flush toilets and running water faucets and located behind the parking lot, so a bit of a hike in the dark if you need to go."
Ranger support: Park staff provide assistance to visitors. Gracie B. shares, "There was a Park Ranger driving around and checked on us when we first got there asking if we had any questions."
Tips from RVers
Long-term vs. short-term options: Some campgrounds primarily serve extended stays. A visitor to Carter's Cove Campground notes, "More of a long term stay but there are a few spots for RVs. Sites are level with some spacing."
Electric hookup availability: Electrical service varies between locations. Carter's Cove Campground provides "30-50 amp" electrical connections according to N.I.'s review.
Ambient noise considerations: Highway proximity can impact the camping experience. "The biggest negative was that no matter where you were in the park, there was significant noise from the highway. Horns honking, sirens blaring, the general rush of cars going by," reports a Sandy Bottom Nature Park camper.