Top Free Dispersed Camping near Providence Forge, VA

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Providence Forge, VA (1)

    Camper-submitted photo from Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)

    1. Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)

    2 Reviews
    1 Photo
    91 Saves

    A new regulation (4VAC15-20-155) effective January 1, 2021 makes it unlawful to camp on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) without written authorization. Written authorization establishes a starting and ending date for each camping trip. In case of emergency, written authorizations also provide the Department with a list of campers who are expected to be occupying a WMA and who may need assistance. https://dwr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/media/wma-rules.pdf

    Camping is primitive, temporary and dispersed. There are no established campsites and no amenities (electric, potable water, dump stations, restrooms, convenience stations).

    The Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area is the only DWR management area in the coastal plain that consists mainly of woodlands and is managed primarily for upland wildlife rather than wetland species. This type of management, coupled with the area’s location along a major tidal river and creek, gives this Charles City County area a variety of habitat types that is unique to the Department’s Wildlife Management Area system. A sighting-in range located at the WMA provides hunters a place to hone their skills.

    The management area gains its name from the Chickahominy River which forms the area’s eastern boundary. To the south, Morris Creek flows through the area and then along its southern boundary. Other smaller tidal creeks and marshy guts cut into the forests to provide additional wetland diversity. The upland, though mainly wooded with mixed hardwood and pine stands, also features cultivated, mowed and “old field” openings. The area’s 5,217 acres are contiguous although there are some interior, private properties. Nearly level, elevations range from about 25 to 50 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Providence Forge

6 Reviews of 1 Providence Forge Campgrounds


  • Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Nest Lookout
    Feb. 29, 2024

    Eagle Nest Lookout

    Drone fishing in the rain

    It is a great shame that people would desecrate such a beautiful area with trash and a blatant disregard for others! We arrived and set up camp around 3pm. There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this are in which we picked up. Apparently this is a well used fishing location seen by the debris that was left and the still smoldering prone laying barrel fire unfortunately. Around 9pm we were graced with some visitors. To my dismay the individuals deployed a large fishing drone. I was in disbelief at the blatant disregard and disrespect that this man showed knowing that we were camping the within 30ft of their fishing expedition! This man and woman did this for several hours in the rain with their vehicle lights on. In the morning we discovered that the two had the nerve to also left there chic felt and fishing trash on the ground. What a shame and disgrace! Of course we police the location and made right.

  • Greg Nekdi Nekane Nithvgwa S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Nest Lookout
    Feb. 29, 2024

    Eagle Nest Lookout

    Shooting range and generator blues

    We stayed down by the boat ramp. There are basically two parking or camping spot closest to the ramp partitioned by some rail timbers. A large was camped out in the First section closest to the boat ramp area. There weren't very hospitable to say the least. One releaved him self at his truck on the side We were on and moved on the side with the larger group of cars ,truck and campers. To add insult to injury this group ran their generators up until 4:30 am. Very uncool and inconsiderate. 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. There are other areas though. The scenery is spectacular alongside the Chickahominy River and a great place to for hiking.

  • K
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Nest Lookout
    Feb. 18, 2024

    Eagle Nest Lookout

    Winter Car Camping

    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. Used by fisherman shore fishing and unfortunately Trash was present but we walked around and picked up. Fire pit at shore pull in site and I was able to find plenty of wood down the road to keep the fire toasty until we went to bed. 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. If you are fishing, the pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass. Next morning we explored a trail in the area then headed out. Helpful hint: This is the spot by the water. There was confusion because the other site on this app just takes you near the gun range and it is not by the water.

  • G
    Camper-submitted photo from Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)
    Nov. 11, 2023

    Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)

    Not bad!

    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. No amenities but nice camping experience and 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. I will come back!

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)
    Apr. 8, 2022

    Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA)

    Waterfront property

    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. As a bonus there is a raised area—about 20’ above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two. The site had some trash unfortunately. But the privacy and singularity of canning so close to the water made it a nice find. 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.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Eagle Nest Lookout
    Dec. 13, 2021

    Eagle Nest Lookout

    Huck Fin Delight

    This is 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. There are no established campgrounds but you can primitive camp. This campsite is exceptional for those that like to primitive camp. You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to 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. No water, no toilet, Pack it in, Pack it out. LNT. There is a fire ring and a fire pit. The ground is well tamped down. Please take care of the amazing spot. There is a boat ramp of sorts just below the campsite. 37.316858-76.881031 

    Pack it in, Pack it out

    LNT 

    Travel safe



Guide to Providence Forge

Camping near Providence Forge, Virginia, offers a mix of nature, history, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds in the area that cater to different tastes and needs.

What to do:

  • Explore nature trails: Many campgrounds, like Pocahontas State Park Campground, have miles of hiking and biking trails. One visitor mentioned, "The trails were nice and it was a nice walk to the aquatic recreation park."
  • Visit historical sites: The area is rich in history, with attractions like Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown nearby. A camper noted, "We enjoyed our outings to Jamestown and the American Revolution Museum."
  • Enjoy water activities: Campgrounds like Chickahominy Riverfront Park offer kayaking and fishing opportunities. One review highlighted, "What could be better than camping and kayaking on a beautiful river?"

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Chippokes State Park Campground said, "Great showers & restrooms. Large swimming pool but it was closed."
  • Friendly staff: Many campgrounds have welcoming staff that enhance the camping experience. A reviewer at Williamsburg Campground mentioned, "The staff was wonderful and the grounds were very well maintained."
  • Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds often have playgrounds and activities for kids. One camper noted, "The kids loved the water park that had three big slides, three pools, and a water park playground!"

What you should know:

  • Site spacing varies: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together, which can affect privacy. A visitor at American Heritage RV Park mentioned, "Sites are a bit close together but I have seen worse."
  • Noise levels: Be prepared for some noise from nearby roads or trains. A camper at Anvil Campground said, "The train that passes by is great for kids and you barely notice it."
  • Limited store hours: Some campgrounds have stores that are only open on certain days. A visitor at Pocahontas State Park Campground noted, "Don’t know how the camp store is because it is only open Thursday to Sunday."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose a campground with activities: Look for places with pools, playgrounds, and organized events. A camper at Bethpage Camp-Resort said, "They have a great weekly activity schedule, great pool, putt putt, etc."
  • Pack for all weather: Be ready for rain or shine, as weather can change quickly. A visitor at Newport News Park mentioned, "We always seem to come when it rains but we don’t mind at all."
  • Bring games and activities: Keep kids entertained with outdoor games or crafts. A camper at Anvil Campground appreciated the "porch games like connect four and corn hole."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits comfortably in the site. A reviewer at American Heritage RV Park noted, "Some spots were a tad hard for bigger rigs to get in and out of."
  • Look for full hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups for convenience. A visitor at Americamps RV Resort mentioned, "There is a pool, playground, meeting room, bar and BBQ area, laundry facilities as well as shower rooms."
  • Plan for early check-in: If you want to maximize your time, check if early check-in is available. A camper at Richmond North - Kings Dominion KOA advised, "They'll charge you an extra $20 for early check-in, which is required if you want to go to the theme park at opening."

Camping near Providence Forge, Virginia, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Providence Forge, VA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Providence Forge, VA is Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site (WMA) with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.