Best Dispersed Camping near Smithfield, VA
Dispersed camping near Smithfield, Virginia is available at three wildlife management areas offering primitive sites along the water. Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area provides approximately 15 cleared areas suitable for camping, with some spots directly along the waterfront. Virginia residents may camp for free for up to 14 days with a fishing or hunting license, while non-residents must purchase a $4 daily use permit through the WMA website or app.
Eagle Nest Lookout, located on the Chickahominy WMA at the far end along the James River, offers both shoreline camping and a hilltop tent site with river views. A narrow path leads from the end of the road to a small knoll with mature trees overlooking the James. The site includes a fire ring and fire pit on well-tamped ground. A visitor commented, "There is a large shoreline area to car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site overlooking the river." Be aware that the nearby shooting range can be heard until evening, and the area is popular with fishermen, which may impact privacy. Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area provides similar primitive camping experiences with boat-in, hike-in, and walk-in access options.
