Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area spans over 5,000 acres of mainly forested coastal plains in Charles City County. Primitive camping is available along the Chickahominy River with direct water access at multiple points. Winter camping is popular with temperatures averaging 35-45°F from December through February, while summer months can reach 85-95°F with high humidity.
What to do
Boating access points: Chickahominy WMA offers boat ramps allowing direct water access. "There is a boat ramp with a nice sized parking lot, no toilet, no water, no trash," notes a visitor who recommends a "Pack it in, Pack it out" approach.
Fishing opportunities: Ed Allen's Campground and Cottages provides access to excellent fishing. "There is a huge lake to go fishing, great restuarant nearby, the campground had a barbeque dinner for everyone," says Gary G., who gave the campground five stars.
Biking on the Capital Trail: Rockahock Campgrounds offers a convenient base for cyclists. "Sites are massive and very quiet. Ideal place for a family if you are fully contained," notes Adam S., though he cautions that "Wi-Fi is spotty at best."
Historical exploration: Located about 20 minutes from Colonial Williamsburg, campers can explore regional history. "We stayed here during our historical tour of Jamestown and Yorktown. The location is fantastic and close to all things Williamsburg," explains a reviewer of Anvil Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Thousand Trails Williamsburg receives praise for its site layout. "Decent spacing between sites," notes Mitchell B., who appreciated the "Many activities scheduled on the weekends. Lots of families camping. Indoor and outdoor pools."
Water recreation: Camping spots with river views remain popular throughout the area. "Spacious campsite with amazing views. Could take kayaks straight into the water from our site," shares Liz M. about Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Kid-friendly amenities: Williamsburg Campground offers numerous activities for children. "Lots to do with kids... planned activities like Petting zoo, hayrides, and movie night, and campground amenities like a pool, bounce pillows, bikes, short hiking trails, and ice cream shop," reports Courtney O.
Secluded tent spots: Eagle Nest Lookout provides tent camping with views. "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," describes a camper who discovered this hidden gem.
What you should know
Access permits required: Most wildlife management areas require permits for camping. At Chickahominy WMA, a visitor notes that "WMA wildlife management area's require a permit, but i only stayed one night everything was just fine."
Train noise considerations: Some campgrounds have nearby train tracks. "Only issue is you are right next to the train tracks so if you are a light sleeper you will hear those trains throughout the night," warns Alexas H. about Ed Allen's Campground.
Weekend crowds: Popular fishing areas get busy on weekends. "This is more of a small boating/fishing area locals usually party at than much of a campground," reports one camper at Eagle Nest Lookout, noting they "ended up picking up a great deal [of trash] for some peace of mind."
Weather impacts: Seasonal rain can affect access at some locations. "I would check the site before pulling off the road" after rainfall, recommends a visitor to Chickahominy WMA, where grassy parking areas can become muddy.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Chickahominy Riverfront Park offers swimming options for children. "The swimming pool was incredibly large and CLEAN!!! It felt very refreshing and even had an adult swim time and attentive life guards," shares Katie B.
Playground access: American Heritage RV Park has recreation for various ages. "There's a playground for the kids near the entrance and some mini golf (I personally wouldn't call it mini golf and it doesn't look the greatest)," notes Lindsey B.
Safety considerations: Some areas have shooting ranges nearby. "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening," warns a camper about areas near Eagle Nest Lookout.
Bike-friendly options: For active families, some campgrounds connect to regional bike trails. "The Virginia Capital Bike Trail runs alongside the park," mentions a visitor, making it convenient for family rides.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking at American Heritage RV Park, request specific site types. "Sites were concrete, level, and most had trees for shade. New section at rear of park is not well shaded but new construction," notes John D., suggesting sites in older sections for better shade.
Full hookup availability: Pocahontas State Park Campground has electric but limited sewer connections. "Great State Park campground! No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp). Lots of hiking, fantastic mountain bike trails, lots of history," reports Ashley I.
Weekend preparations: For Chickahominy WMA's primitive spots, prepare for fishermen traffic. "During hunting season you will encounter several hunters except on Sunday (no hunting on Sunday). It is heavily wooded and during the spring summer and fall it will beautiful all leafed out," notes a visitor who found the grass mowed but recommends checking conditions after rain.
Traveler
