Dispersed camping near Portsmouth, Virginia centers around several Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) within driving distance of the city. These public lands require Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources access permits, which cost $4 daily or can be included with annual hunting or fishing licenses. Seasonal hunting activities affect camping conditions, with fall and winter seeing increased hunter presence particularly during deer season from October through January.
What to do
Fishing adventures: The Chickahominy WMA offers multiple waterfront spots where vehicles can park within feet of the water. As one camper noted, "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water. Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with." Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)
Hiking opportunities: Ware Creek WMA provides trail access for day hiking or overnight exploration. Visitors appreciate the solitude: "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning." Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area
River exploration: Many campsites sit directly on the James and Chickahominy Rivers, allowing for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. A camper at Eagle Nest described the location as "in the Chickahominy WMA on the far end and along the James River. There are 5,217 acres in Charles City County, Virginia. Mainly forested in the coastal plains of tidewater, Virginia."
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Some sites offer unique terrain features. One camper at Eagle Nest mentioned "a small knoll. At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River. You are able to park down below and carry your gear the short distance." Eagle Nest Lookout
Multiple site options: The WMAs contain numerous dispersed sites with varying levels of privacy. A camper at Chickahominy reported, "Basic parking spot in quite location. Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving."
Proximity to water: Many dispersed sites allow camping extremely close to waterways. One visitor commented, "Car camped here 5 feet from the water. There is a large shoreline area to Car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river."
What you should know
Trash management: Pack out all garbage as these areas have no services and sometimes suffer from litter problems. A camper noted, "The site had some trash unfortunately. But the privacy and singularity of canning so close to the water made it a nice find."
Noise considerations: Some camping areas experience noise from nearby shooting ranges or hunting activities. One review warned, "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping."
Permit requirements: Access requires proper permits purchased in advance. As one visitor explained, "Camping here is free but there is a $4 daily use fee to be in the WMA that you can pay via phone, website or app tho the clunkiness of the website and app make it hard."
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations away from boat ramps if seeking quiet. A camper advised, "If your looking for complete privacy, I'd recommend trying one of the other sites sprinkled around the area. Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once the all the people Fishing left."
Weekend planning: Expect more visitors during weekends, especially in fishing season. One visitor observed, "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side. It's 2 parking side by water and some other ones on the way while driving. No amenities but nice camping experience."
Fire preparation: Bring your own firewood as gathering may be restricted. A camper reported, "I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed," though this practice may not comply with all WMA regulations.
Tips from RVers
Access challenges: Roads may be narrow and unpaved. One RVer with a small trailer reported, "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water," suggesting smaller rigs work best.
Parking logistics: Space is limited at waterfront sites. According to one camper, "There are basically two parking or camping spot closest to the ramp partitioned by some rail timbers," indicating space constraints for larger vehicles.
No hookups available: These areas provide no services whatsoever. Virginia residents should note, "You can purchase $4 daily pass or if Virginia residents free 14 days camping complementary as well with any fishing license or hunting license if you have."
