The Newport News area offers RV and tent camping options within easy reach of both coastal attractions and historical sites. Located at the meeting point of the Chesapeake Bay and James River, this region provides mild year-round camping conditions with a humid subtropical climate and relatively flat, wooded terrain. Campgrounds throughout the area range from military bases to privately-owned resorts, with varying levels of waterfront access.
What to do
Beach access: 5-minute walk at The Colonies RV and Travel Park provides shoreline activities without leaving the campground. "Beach access, country store, water on 2 sides. Located on historic Fort Monroe, VA the fort has a lot to offer. No reason to leave but if you do there's plenty in surrounding areas," explains Becky W.
Crabbing excursions: Set up on dedicated piers at Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay where facilities cater to this popular regional activity. "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," reports Mike T.
Historical exploration: Fort Monroe's historical significance complements visits to the wider Colonial Triangle. "Located on the Historic Fort Monroe, you have water on two sides with excellent walking area. While there you must check out the Fort Monroe Casement Museum," advises reviewer N.I.
Hiking options: Many campgrounds feature nature trails that don't require leaving the property. "There are more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing on two lakes and the York River along with an 18 hole golf course," notes a visitor to Military Park Cheatham Annex.
What campers like
Waterfront settings: Multiple campers praise the unique coastal experience of Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park, which sits near the Chesapeake Bay meeting the Atlantic. "This campground is located at the Fort Story Navy Base, set in a wooded area not far from a nice beach right at the corner of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic. Two historic lighthouse mark the spot!" shares Janet R.
Affordable military options: Service members appreciate cost-effective camping near attractions. "Large sites, shaded, and semi private (some trees between sites and sites not right on top of each other). Close to beach (dog friendly beach!) and lots of sightseeing and restaurants nearby," notes Steve V. about Fort Story.
Family-friendly water amenities: Water features rank highly among camper priorities. "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," explains Christen C. about Bethpage Camp-Resort.
Concrete pads: Many RVers specifically mention level, concrete parking pads as a standout feature. "Our site was very nice site#10, a leveled concrete site with room to park our towed vehicle while still attached to our Motor Home. We also had a level concrete patio with a picnic table," reports Mary H.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Several campgrounds require proper identification for entry. "This is an amazing recreational campground for military families and retirees that is located right on the York River between Williamsburg and Yorktown," explains Janet R. about Military Park Cheatham Annex.
Seasonal operating schedules: Most rv campgrounds near Newport News operate from April through November, with limited winter availability. For example, Grey's Point Camp and Bethpage Camp-Resort both operate April 1 to November 15.
Noise considerations: Be prepared for occasional noise at some locations. "The campground is awesome. Beach is a short walk, but what they don't tell you is that there's a club on the beach. So be warned- it's a bit noisy," James A. advises about The Colonies RV Park.
Reservation timing: During peak season, advance planning is essential. "We stayed as thousand trails. We were on a huge site; other sites are average for rv park. Great pools and splash pad. Beach. Boating," shares Tim S. about Grey's Point Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Water park access: Bethpage Camp-Resort offers extensive water recreation options for children. "We love this place! I has everything you need and more!! Pros- Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park- amazing, splash pad-fun for small children," recommends Our Greight Escape.
Tent site selection: For families seeking more privacy in tent camping areas, strategic site selection helps. "Hint: for more privacy (tent campers) ask for site 6 or 7," suggests James A. about The Colonies RV Park.
Activities for multiple age groups: Look for campgrounds with diverse recreation options. "The campground is multi-faceted. There is everything for everyone—camper cabins as well as an RV park with hookups as needed, and also standard tent sites as well as primitive tent cents," notes Janet R.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature playground equipment appropriate for different age ranges. "There are several small hiking trails nearby on base that were good for walking the dog," notes Eleanor at Little Creek MWR RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At American Heritage RV Park, connection points may require planning. "The connection boxes are set back pretty far on the sites, so you need longer hoses/cords. We had a long electric cord that reached and had to add a second water hose and second section of sewer hose to connect," advises Eleanor about a similar military campground.
Traffic considerations: Base your departure timing on local traffic patterns. "Traffic getting off base starting around 1500-1600 is bad, so plan accordingly," warns Eleanor at Little Creek MWR RV Park.
Internet connectivity: Service varies widely between campgrounds. "T-mobile gateway internet sucks here, but Starlink works well from the site we are in," reports Nick E. about Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay.
Extended stay options: Some rv campgrounds near Newport News offer affordable monthly rates. "Pricey in the summer time, but they have a monthly winter rate $756 (not proratable) from October 1 thru April 30," notes Maria K. about The Colonies RV Park.
