Best Dispersed Camping near Richmond, VA
Dispersed camping opportunities exist near Richmond, Virginia at the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which encompasses 5,217 acres in Charles City County. The area features primitive camping with no established facilities. Eagle Nest Lookout, located within the WMA along the James River, offers waterfront camping with both shoreline sites and elevated areas approximately 20 feet above the water. The terrain consists primarily of coastal plain forest typical of tidewater Virginia.
Permits are required for camping in the WMA. Virginia residents with a valid fishing or hunting license receive 14 days of complementary camping, while others must purchase a $4 daily use permit through phone, website, or app. According to reviews, the permit system can be somewhat difficult to navigate. Campers should note that no amenities exist at these sites; no drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available. The "pack it in, pack it out" principle applies strictly to all waste.
Several campers report that Eagle Nest Lookout features a beaten path leading to a small knoll with mature trees and James River views. The site includes a fire ring and fire pit with tamped-down ground suitable for tents. Visitors should be prepared for potential noise from a nearby shooting range, especially on weekends. The area is popular with anglers, which can impact privacy during peak fishing times. Approximately 15 cleared areas exist throughout the WMA where camping is permitted, with some sites allowing vehicles to park within feet of the water. Visitors seeking solitude should explore the less-frequented areas within the management area.