Tent camping near Norge, Virginia offers a range of options from primitive sites to more developed campgrounds. The area sits within the coastal plain region at relatively low elevations, typically below 100 feet above sea level. Summer humidity levels regularly exceed 80%, creating challenging camping conditions from June through August, while spring and fall bring more moderate temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides rental equipment for water activities. "Lots of hiking trails to walk & turtles in the lake!! Plus you can rent boats for a cheap price which we will probably go back to do," notes camper Gracie B.
Wildlife viewing: Belle Isle State Park attracts birdwatchers and nature photographers year-round. The primitive campground at Brewer's Point serves as an excellent base for wildlife observation, with over 30 species of birds documented in the immediate area.
Fishing: Big Woods WMA permits fishing with valid Virginia licenses. Anglers must bring all equipment, as no rentals or bait shops exist within the wildlife management area. Catch-and-release fishing is encouraged for conservation purposes.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers at Wisteria Beach Hideaway appreciate the secluded nature of the camping area. "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," reports reviewer RL.
Tent platforms: Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides sand-based tent pads that improve drainage during wet weather. A camper notes, "The sites were spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. Trash cans were very close by, which was super nice."
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer proximity to undeveloped shorelines. At Wisteria Beach Hideaway, "the beaches were surrounded by pine, wetlands, and tall grasses - it felt remote and not overdeveloped," according to Kat H.
What you should know
Reservation policies: Most tent campgrounds near Norge require advance bookings, but Sandy Bottom Nature Park operates differently. "Sites are first come, first served. Must reserve in person. Visitor's center is open 9-6," explains camper Liz J.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. At Sandy Bottom Nature Park, "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."
Insect protection: Biting flies can be problematic in certain seasons. "Due to a lack of wind, flies were bad on the beach. I would recommend bringing an insect screen if you have it," advises one Wisteria Beach Hideaway visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom planning: Most walk-in tent sites require a hike to reach bathroom facilities. At Sandy Bottom Nature Park, "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."
Educational opportunities: Big Woods WMA offers primitive camping near one of Virginia's most significant red-cockaded woodpecker habitats, providing learning opportunities for children interested in endangered species conservation.
Equipment transport: For walk-in sites, plan for efficient packing. "The sites were located about 1/4 mile from the parking lot down a trail," explains a Sandy Bottom Nature Park camper, suggesting families bring wheeled carts for gear transport.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Carter's Cove Campground provides one of the few RV-accessible options near Norge. "More of a long term stay but there are a few spots for RVs. Laundry, trash, restrooms, picnic table, fire pit (day use only). Mature trees and over all space is very large," reports N I.
Electric hookups: Carter's Cove offers both 30-amp and 50-amp connections, but availability is limited. The campground does not accept advance reservations for short-term RV stays, requiring campers to call ahead to check current availability.
Level sites: RVers appreciate that sites at Carter's Cove are "level with some spacing," reducing the need for extensive stabilization equipment when setting up camp.
