Camping cabins near Petersburg, Virginia provide wooded retreats within driving distance of historic sites and outdoor recreation areas. The region sits at low elevation along the fall line where the coastal plain meets the Piedmont, creating diverse terrain for exploration. Winter cabin rentals typically require advance booking as availability decreases during the off-season months from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails: Pocahontas State Park Campground offers extensive hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "Pocahontas state park is great so far. Hike complete! Fire complete and set up done. Time for shower and bed," notes Kelly J. The park maintains over 64 miles of multiuse trails through hardwood forest.
Fishing opportunities: Ed Allen's Campground and Cottages provides lake fishing access with rental equipment available. "There is a huge lake to go fishing, great restuarant nearby, the campground had a barbeque dinner for everyone. Lots of trails to walk," explains Gary G. The campground requires Virginia fishing licenses for anglers over 16.
Kayaking: Visitors at Chickahominy Riverfront Park can launch directly from shoreline campsites. "Spacious campsite with amazing views. Could take kayaks straight into the water from our site," shares Liz M. The river offers protected paddling areas suitable for beginners and experienced kayakers.
Historical exploration: Chippokes State Park Campground combines camping with historical sites. "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," explains Rose H. The park features buildings dating to the early 1600s.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Cabin campers at Pocahontas State Park Campground enjoy secluded settings. "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," writes Gregg S. The forest canopy provides natural shade and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Swimming options: Many parks provide water recreation beyond the typical pool. "Kids had a blast playing in the water and taking the paddle boats out. Campground was clean, quiet and spacious! We camped in a tent not far from the beach area," notes Crystal K. about her stay at Emporia KOA Holiday, located 30 miles south of Petersburg.
Level sites: South Forty RV Resort & Campground offers well-maintained cabin areas. "Level sites with good size sites. Didn't venture out as temps dropped fast this day. Good stop for overnight," reports Robert M. The campground provides gravel pads for stable footing in all weather.
Train watching: For families who enjoy railroads, Anvil Campground offers a unique experience. "Campground was relaxing, had a perfect mom and pop feel to it. Spaces are tight but you don't feel like you are on top of your neighbor. The train that passes by is great for kids and you barely notice it," shares Bryan S.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Winter cabin options decrease significantly in the Petersburg area. Chippokes State Park Campground operates with limited availability after fall. "We've stayed here pretty often as it's only a few hours from home and near everything in Williamsburg, Virginia. The park is against the James river and theres easy access to the riverside," notes Philip S.
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience noise from surrounding areas. "Nice sites full hook up. Pool and laundry close to pool. Clean store. Kid friendly," says Tracy about Picture Lake Campground, though other reviewers mention the nearby racetrack can be loud during events.
Water access variations: Cabin proximity to water differs significantly between locations. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son! It's a beautiful place!" explains Susan P. about Chippokes State Park. Water depth and swimming areas vary seasonally.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For military families, Richmond Family Recreation RV Camp offers cabin accommodations with limited availability. "Small six site campground that the fire department states is never used. Nice clean level spots," notes one military visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Williamsburg Campground provides extensive recreation options. "We loved it here. My kids loved the playground and the pool. The bathrooms were spotless and the whole campground was peaceful and relaxing," shares Theresa B. The playground includes multiple climbing structures for different age groups.
Swimming beaches: Look for shallow water options with natural shorelines. "Every camper's dream spot. Seriously, this modern giant state park has it all: mostly private sites, a paved road for biking, plenty of tree cover even in winter," writes N.P. about Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Themed activities: Several campgrounds schedule regular family events. "There was a dance party with yogi and his friends and our kids enjoyed that. We also painted some figurines in the arts and crafts area," explains Crystal K. about activities at Emporia KOA Holiday.
Biking opportunities: Family-friendly cabin locations often feature paved paths. "Clean and huge campsites, great pool, great hiking and biking trails," notes Dustin F. about Pocahontas State Park. Most cabins have space for storing bikes outside or underneath raised structures.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Cabin locations with RV experience understand larger vehicle needs. "Perfect location right off of I-95. Spot we had was spacious and easy to get in and out of," notes Katie G. about South Forty RV Resort & Campground. The proximity to major highways makes this location convenient for travelers.
Utility connections: When booking cabins, check which utilities are included. "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history," explains Ashley I. about Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Overnight options: South Forty RV Resort works well for brief stays. "Nice, quiet overnight stop. We are full time and were passing through and saw this on map. Friendly staff. Level sites with good size sites," states Robert M. The campground remains open year-round for travelers needing cabin accommodations between destinations.
