Rustic camping near Seaford, Virginia centers on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) that offer primitive waterfront sites. The coastal plains surrounding Seaford contain several public land access points where dispersed camping is permitted. Virginia WMAs function as multi-use public lands primarily managed for wildlife conservation and hunting access, with camping permitted as a secondary activity.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Eagle Nest Lookout, anglers use various techniques to catch substantial fish. "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," notes one camper who visited during winter.
Shoreline exploration: The waterfront areas provide opportunities to walk along undeveloped shorelines. A visitor to Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area described being able to "put it within 5' of the water" with "about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with."
Overnight car camping: Vehicle access camping spots exist throughout the WMAs. "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," reports a winter visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout.
What campers like
Elevated camping spots: Several sites feature higher ground options with views. "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," explains a Chickahominy WMA camper.
Seclusion after peak hours: While fishing spots can be busy during daytime hours, they often clear out by evening. "Definitely a busy little spot but we ended up having the place to ourselves once all the people Fishing left," according to a camper at Eagle Nest Lookout.
Water proximity: The ability to camp extremely close to water is repeatedly mentioned as a highlight. One visitor at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area noted they "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning."
What you should know
Permit acquisition methods: Access to these public lands requires proper permits. "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," explains a Chickahominy visitor.
Visitor impact issues: Many campers report finding trash at otherwise beautiful sites. "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 area in which we picked up," notes one Eagle Nest Lookout camper.
Noise considerations: Several locations have nearby shooting ranges and other recreational users. "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," warns a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection timing: Arriving early helps secure the better spots, especially on weekends. "Basic parking spot in quiet 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," explains a Chickahominy WMA camper.
Navigation assistance: Some sites can be difficult to locate. "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," clarifies a visitor to help others find the correct location.
Trash management: Teaching children proper waste disposal provides an educational opportunity. One camper noted after finding trash: "Of course we police the location and made right," demonstrating responsible behavior after finding litter from previous users.
Tips from RVers
Small trailer access: The unpaved roads and limited turnaround space restrict RV size. A Chickahominy WMA visitor reports: "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."
Vehicle considerations: Most access roads are unimproved and can become challenging in wet conditions. "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," explains an Eagle Nest Lookout camper.
