Richmond's camping options extend beyond traditional RV parks, with state parks and recreational facilities offering varied experiences throughout the region. Located in Virginia's Coastal Plain at elevations around 166 feet, Richmond camping areas benefit from a humid subtropical climate with mild winters and hot summers. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though some seasonal facilities close between mid-November and April.
What to Do
Hiking and biking trails: Pocahontas State Park offers extensive trail networks just minutes from downtown Richmond. "Short walk to showers and toilet. Powhatan Trail entrance is right off the loop and lovely, even in December," notes a camper at Pocahontas State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: American Heritage RV Park provides easy access to Colonial Williamsburg. "Great location with lots to do within an hour's drive. This was our first time staying where full hookups were standard, and we had a pull-through site on a level concrete pad," explains a reviewer at American Heritage RV Park.
Local brewery visit: Center of the Universe Brewing Company sits within walking distance of some campgrounds. "Right across the street (a short walk depending on where your site is in the park) there is a brewery that also serves food," shares a camper from Americamps RV Resort.
What Campers Like
Clean facilities: Many Richmond area campgrounds maintain well-kept bathhouses. "The bathrooms were clean, air conditioned, and well supplied. We found it ideal as a base camp to explore the tidewater area of Virginia," explains a visitor at American Heritage RV Park.
Level sites: South Forty RV Resort offers properly graded camping spots. "Level sites with good size sites. Didn't venture out as temps dropped fast this day. Good stop for overnight," notes a reviewer at South Forty RV Resort & Campground.
Fishing opportunities: On-site fishing ponds provide recreation without leaving the campground. "With a catch and release pond, a nice pool, a rec center and an additional catfish pond there are plenty of activities to keep you busy," describes a camper at Cozy Acres Campground RV Resort.
What You Should Know
Military options: Some Richmond area campgrounds restrict access to military personnel only. "Clean, quiet little park on A.P. Hill base. RV hookups, great wifi, showers and laundry are spotless. Access to DoD folks only," explains a visitor at Military Park Fort AP Hill Champs Camp RV Park.
Interstate noise: Campgrounds near major highways may experience traffic sounds. "The only negative comments would be it's right up against interstate 95 so it's a constant drone of traffic," reports an Americamps visitor.
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds operate with limited schedules. "Cozy Acres has brick paver pads with full hookups and 50 amp service, though it operates seasonally from April through mid-November," notes one RV camper.
Tips for Camping with Families
Pool access: Thousand Trails Williamsburg offers indoor and outdoor swimming options. "Many activities scheduled on the weekends. Lots of families camping. Indoor and outdoor pools. Decent spacing between sites," shares a visitor at Thousand Trails Williamsburg.
Playground facilities: Multiple campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. "The playground is impressive and the staff is very welcoming upon arrival. We've fished at the little catch and release pond successfully," explains a Cozy Acres camper.
Morning activities: Some campgrounds offer complimentary breakfast programs. "Pro Tip: There is a FREE breakfast every morning in the rally room. The morning we were there they were making waffles, and had bagels, pastries, fruit, and a variety of drinks to include coffee," reports an Americamps visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for parks with concrete pads for maximum stability. "Our site was level, gravel, and had good shade. The bathhouse in the main building was very clean and air-conditioned, which was nice on this warm summer stay," notes a camper at Americamps RV Resort.
Overnight accessibility: Some parks offer after-hours check-in services. "Perfect location right off of I-95. I arrived after hours, but had my reservation hanging on the wall for me. Ground was pretty level and hookup was easy," explains a South Forty RV Resort visitor.
Big rig considerations: Not all back-in sites accommodate larger vehicles. "Sites were concrete, level, and most had trees for shade. New section at rear of park is not well shaded but new construction. Good connections for water cable and sewer," describes an American Heritage RV Park camper.
