Campgrounds near Kilmarnock, Virginia lack equestrian facilities, with alternatives needed for those seeking horse-friendly accommodations. Situated on Virginia's Northern Neck peninsula between the Rappahannock and Potomac rivers, the region offers waterfront camping with sandy beaches and fishing opportunities. Campsites in this area typically maintain moderate spacing with varying levels of shade and privacy.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can access two distinct beach areas. "This park is a nice place to bring your family to camp, fish, crab and relax by the beach and collect seashells. It has 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not," notes Annemarie R.
Kayaking coastal waters: The waterways surrounding these campgrounds provide excellent paddling opportunities. At Chippokes State Park Campground, one visitor recommends "following the river inland and kayaking through the marshland" for a unique wilderness experience.
Historical exploration: Some campgrounds incorporate historical sites worth exploring. "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day," reports Rose H. about Chippokes Plantation State Park.
What campers like
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist at Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday, where Laure D. observed, "There is a beach area to swim but also 2 pools. The original pool from when this was Tall Pines Harbor is a traditional rectangle. The new one is larger and also has a large splash pad."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife observation. Gabby B. reports at Kiptopeke State Park: "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc."
Fishing variety: The Chesapeake Bay region offers diverse fishing experiences. One camper at Kiptopeke State Park mentions, "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin. By the way, a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campsite quality varies significantly by location within each campground. At Tall Pines Harbor, Greg S. advises, "We'd reserved 406, but Sun Outdoors turned into KOA, so we got a different site lucky us, 'cause the middle ones were swampy with almost no space outside with sitting water on sites."
No equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near Kilmarnock, Virginia remain unavailable at the major campgrounds. All three primary options (Kiptopeke State Park, Chippokes Plantation, and Tall Pines/KOA) specifically list "NO horse-corral" among their amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Not all campgrounds operate year-round. Chippokes State Park maintains a limited season "from the last Friday in March to the first Monday in December," requiring advance planning for winter travelers seeking equestrian camping near Kilmarnock.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Family campers appreciate the swimming options. At Chippokes State Park Campground, Virginia B. shares, "Great Campground! We took 6 teenagers camping and they had a blast! Especially the pool!"
Bug preparation: Insect protection is essential in this waterfront region. When staying at Tall Pines, Greg S. recommends: "Bring bug spray, tiki torches, and mosquito fog spray with all the sitting water around the campground."
Activity planning: Weekend events enhance the family camping experience. Amy R. noted at Tall Pines: "They have events throughout the year and the Saturday night we were there a DJ at the beach. We plan to make this a traditional yearly trip my son and I had so much fun!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Experienced RVers recommend specific areas within campgrounds. At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, Aaron S. advises: "Try and get C loop spots 15 - 21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop."
Campsite leveling: Some sites require additional preparation for comfortable RV setup. At Chippokes State Park, Johnathan M. observed: "The campsites on the A loop are a little more on an angle, they converted tent site lots to camper lots so they come with a level tent area as well."
Navigation advice: Local roads can present challenges for large rigs. One camper recommends: "Roads were OK but a little narrow. US-13 to Saxis Rd/695 is a much easier and direct route to the CG" when approaching Tall Pines Harbor.
