RV camping near Portsmouth, Virginia offers multiple options within driving distance of Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic beaches. Most campgrounds in the region sit on flat terrain with minimal elevation changes, making them accessible for larger vehicles. Summer humidity levels typically exceed 80%, with temperatures averaging 85-90°F during peak camping months from June through August.
What to do
Beach access at Fort Monroe: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers direct access to nearby beaches. "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," notes Becky W.
Fishing opportunities: Military Park Cheatham Annex provides multiple fishing locations. "The campground is multi-faceted. There is everything for everyone—camper cabins as well as an RV park with hookups as well as standard tent sites as well as primitive tent cents. The various camping areas surround a central recreational area that includes golf course, playground and swimming pool, but there are also wooded hiking trails, two lakes with rowboats and kayaks and fishing," explains Janet R.
Historic exploration: American Heritage RV Park serves as a convenient base for historical sites. "This park was very convenient to Williamsburg, Richmond, and Virginia Beach. The staff was exceptionally friendly and accommodating. We found it ideal as a base camp to explore the tidewater area of Virginia," reports John D.
What campers like
Waterfront views: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers unique water views. "One of the most scenic and peaceful campgrounds in the state of Virginia, you are right by the water (it's almost like an island), 2 minutes walking distance from a secluded beach," shares Maria K.
Military base amenities: Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park provides access to military facilities. "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!" writes Janet R.
Family activities: Thousand Trails Williamsburg features multiple recreational options. "Activities abound including game room, indoor & outdoor pools, corn hole, basketball, beautiful putt putt course and adult/child activities," notes Trina C.
What you should know
Variable site spacing: Sea Mist RV Campground offers different camping environments. "There are two loops, the south loop is older with many trees and shade and more space between sites, the northern loop is new and treeless and open with sites close together," explains Janet R.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Virginia Beach RV Resort costs vary significantly by season. "I just called and inquired about pricing. I was told that RV spots were $130/night. Not the $30-100," reports Ben P.
Military ID requirements: Military campgrounds restrict access to authorized personnel. "This campground is a recreational opportunity for active and retired military and their families. This campground is located at the Fort Story Navy Base," states Janet R.
Tips for camping with families
Beach proximity considerations: Some campgrounds require transportation to reach beaches. "This is an amazing recreational campground for military families and retirees that is located right on the York River between Williamsburg and Yorktown. It is immediately adjacent to the Colonial Parkway for easy access to historic Jamestown as well," notes Janet R. about Military Park Cheatham Annex.
Pool options for children: Multiple facilities offer swimming alternatives to beach water. "Many activities scheduled on the weekends. Lots of families camping. Indoor and outdoor pools. Decent spacing between sites," reports Mitchell B. about Thousand Trails Williamsburg.
Tent camping limitations: Not all RV parks accommodate tent campers. "We werent able to stay here because on arrival we found out that not only do they not have designated tent sites, but that tenters arent even allowed! Very disappointing," explains Janet R. about Sea Mist RV Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Little Creek MWR RV Park requires longer connections than standard. "Also 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 the Airstream R.
Site selection strategies: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers specific sites for privacy. "Hint: for more privacy (tent campers) ask for site 6 or 7," suggests James A.
Internet connectivity options: Varying WiFi quality makes alternative plans important. "Cellular signal and Starlink won't work well here and the campground WiFi isn't great. But in the true spirit of camping, this is a great place to disconnect and take long walks around the base and the beach," advises Leo S. about Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park.
