Dispersed camping near Yorktown, Virginia offers multiple sites within Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) where self-sufficient campers can find basic primitive sites. Most camping spots require a Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources access permit, with non-residents paying a $4 daily fee while Virginia residents holding valid fishing or hunting licenses receive complementary 14-day access. The coastal plain terrain features low-lying areas with mixed hardwood forests and river frontage, creating multiple secluded camping locations primarily used by anglers and hunters.
What to do
Fishing from shore: Eagle Nest Lookout provides direct water access for anglers. One visitor reported seeing other campers having success: "If you are fishing, they pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass" at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Explore hiking trails: The WMAs contain numerous unmarked paths through coastal forests. A camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site noted there are "about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with" making it possible to find both camping spots and walking routes throughout the property.
Boat launch access: Several sites provide rudimentary boat access points for small watercraft. At Eagle Nest Lookout, a reviewer mentioned "There is a boat ramp of sorts just below the campsite" which allows for launching smaller boats or kayaks into the waterway.
What campers like
Waterfront proximity: The ability to camp directly beside the water ranks as a top feature. A camper at Eagle Nest Lookout described: "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."
Multiple site options: Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area offers various camping locations that provide flexibility based on conditions and crowds. As one visitor noted, "Take advantage of your local wildlife areas" when seeking dispersed camping spots near Yorktown.
Elevated camping spots: Some locations feature terrain variations providing scenic advantages. At Chickahominy WMA, a visitor mentioned "there is a raised area—about 20' above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two" offering better views and drainage.
What you should know
Trash issues: Many sites suffer from previous visitors leaving garbage behind. One camper at Eagle Nest Lookout reported: "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."
Noise considerations: The proximity to shooting ranges and other recreational users creates periodic noise disruptions. A camper described: "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."
No facilities available: All sites require complete self-sufficiency. As one camper explicitly stated about Eagle Nest: "No water, no toilet, Pack it in, Pack it out. LNT. There is a fire ring and a fire pit." Visitors must bring all necessary supplies and remove all waste.
Tips for camping with families
Arrive early for best sites: Prime waterfront spots fill quickly, especially during fishing season. One visitor to Chickahominy noted: "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."
Be prepared to clean up: Teaching children about conservation often starts with practical application. A visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout mentioned: "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."
Consider weekday visits: Weekend crowds significantly impact the experience. One camper reported: "Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once all the people Fishing left."
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only: The access points and parking areas limit RV size severely. One RVer at Chickahominy reported: "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water." Larger rigs cannot access most sites.
Be mindful of ground conditions: The coastal plain terrain can become soft after rain. A visitor to Ware Creek mentioned: "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning," highlighting the advantage of vehicles with higher clearance when accessing these primitive areas.
Level parking can be limited: The natural terrain offers few perfectly level spots for parking RVs. At Chickahominy, one camper noted the site layout: "Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas," requiring careful positioning to find suitable parking for trailers.
