Cabin rentals near Smithfield, Virginia provide access to both forested areas and waterfront locations on the Chickahominy and James Rivers. Most rentals are situated within a 30-45 minute drive of Smithfield proper, with seasonal variations in pricing between peak summer months and off-season. The cabins range from basic structures to fully equipped accommodations with kitchen facilities.
What to do
Water activities at Kiptopeke: Fish or crab at this state park on the Chesapeake Bay. A visitor noted, "The fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin." The park also features two beaches and wooden boardwalk trails.
Biking on the Virginia Capital Trail: Located near Chickahominy Riverfront Park, this paved trail extends for miles through scenic countryside. One camper mentioned, "Also a great paved biking path that goes for a number of miles."
Historic exploration at Chippokes: Visit the working plantation at Chippokes State Park Campground for a glimpse into agricultural history. A reviewer shared, "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day."
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin areas offer chances to see local wildlife in natural settings. At Kiptopeke State Park, a camper reported, "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc."
Kayaking options: First Landing State Park Campground provides water access from cabins. One visitor shared, "Access to the beach is a plus, the park rangers do their job well, and many great amenities are available."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations offer fishing directly from the property. At Davis Lakes Resort, a reviewer mentioned, "Fishing in the ponds was good. Store is very limited on what it has."
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Anvil Campground cabins are close to active train tracks. A visitor warned, "Train is so close that it shakes our RV."
Summer heat considerations: Tent sites at some parks can become uncomfortably hot in peak summer. One camper at First Landing noted, "I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick."
Water quality varies: Some fishing areas have clearer water than others. A review for Isle of Wight mentioned, "The 'lake' more like a stagnate pod that smells like a swamp."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin locations require advance booking, with some filling up 6-12 months ahead for summer weekends. In winter months, more spontaneous stays are possible at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kings Creek offers well-maintained play areas near their cabin rentals. A visitor mentioned, "Sites 11 through 18 are in a loop around a nice kids playground, with trees surrounding the sites and glimmers of Kings Creek in the background."
Swimming options: Multiple parks offer pools with lifeguards in summer months. At Chickahominy, a camper shared, "The swimming pool was incredibly large and CLEAN!!! It felt very refreshing and even had a adult swim time and attentive life guards."
Educational opportunities: For families wanting educational components, several sites offer nature programs during summer months. A Williamsburg Campground visitor stated, "They had big jumpy things for the kids, an out door movie theater and a nice playground."
Bug preparation: Cabins near water require additional insect protection, especially in late spring and summer. Screened porches are available at some rental units for outdoor dining without insect concerns.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Isle of Wight Family Campground, concrete pads make cabin and RV setup easier. A visitor noted, "Each spot has a concrete padded area with a picnic table and fire pit."
Accessibility: Some parks offer wheelchair-accessible cabins and trails. A Kiptopeke visitor mentioned, "There are wooden boardwalk trails in the park and a few of them leads to different areas on the beach. We used 2 of them that were wheel chair accessible."
Seasonal pricing: Off-season cabin rentals can cost 30-40% less than peak summer rates. Most parks maintain year-round cabin availability while closing tent sites in winter months.
Utility concerns: Power outages occasionally affect cabin areas after storms. One Kings Creek reviewer warned, "After a nasty storm, the power remained out on base for over 24 hours, much much longer than the surrounding communities."
