Campers looking for glamping close to Smithfield, Virginia can explore several options within a 30-minute drive. The region spans the coastal plain with elevations rarely exceeding 100 feet above sea level, creating ideal terrain for waterfront camping experiences along the James and York Rivers. The area's humid subtropical climate brings hot summers with temperatures regularly reaching 90°F in July and August, making water-based activities particularly popular.
What to do
Kayaking on the Chickahominy River: Explore the waterways at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, where you can launch directly from waterfront campsites. "Nice campground right on the river. There's even a pool in the summer. Inside tip. There is a dock down by the boat ramp. It says no fishing. Wait until dark and ignore the sign. There's a light down there that draws the insects. The fish are everywhere," notes Patrick R.
Boat rentals at Sandy Bottom Nature Park: The park offers affordable kayak and paddle boat rentals by the hour. "There are kayaks and paddle boats you can rent by the hour. This park has plenty of camping spots and also has some yurts that are available to rent out," shares Brandon W.
Hunting for prehistoric treasures: Visit Kiptopeke State Park Campground where you can search the shoreline for ancient marine fossils. "Hunt for sharks teeth on the beach. Pool is very clean," says Danielle H.
Biking the Virginia Capital Trail: This paved path runs near several campgrounds in the area. "Also a great paved biking path that goes for a number of miles," mentions a reviewer about Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
What campers like
Private tent sites along the water: At Sandy Bottom Nature Park, tent sites are thoughtfully spaced. "The sites were located about 1/4 mile from the parking lot down a trail. They were spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate," explains liz J.
Military history exploration: Kings Creek campground offers a unique glimpse into the past. "There is a small grave site Irene A Whitby, born in 1862 and passed in 1915 located in the campground. Not sure if she haunts the campground," shares N I.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The natural settings provide excellent wildlife spotting. "We saw a fat raccoon, daring squirrels, a turtle, and vultures. There are gorgeous, HARMLESS, garden spiders that are shockingly large and bright yellow," describes Katie B. about her stay at Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Fishing access: Multiple locations offer excellent fishing opportunities. "To kayak here it's the bomb!" enthuses Susan P. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
What you should know
Trains pass close to some campgrounds: At Anvil Campground, trains are frequent. "Not really a complaint from us since the kids thought it was awesome. So, just a heads up on the trains. They are loud and they are often," warns a reviewer.
Weather considerations: Summer storms can impact camping experiences. "I was prepared for the passing thunderstorms. We picked up tarps and ropes and strung them up over our cooking area and the entrance to our tents," advises Katie B.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. "The biggest negative was that no matter where you were in the park, there was significant noise from the highway. Horns honking, sirens blaring, the general rush of cars going by," notes liz J. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
Reservation requirements: Most popular glamping sites require advance bookings, especially during peak season. "You must reserve your spot in advance," reminds todd B. about Bethel Park.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for children: First Landing State Park Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk. Near plenty of restaurants and activities," shares Adam and Suzanne B.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "There are miles of trails around the lake and through the woods you can follow. It is extremely dog friendly with a fenced in dog park as well," notes Brandon W. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow water areas are ideal for young swimmers. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son! It's a beautiful place!" recommends Susan P. about Chippokes State Park.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences. "There is an amazing nature center that overlooks Sandy Bottom Lake. Hiking, and biking trails, fishing, boating with boat rentals or bring your own, birding and wildlife viewing," describes N I.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Chippokes State Park Campground, RV sites have specific characteristics to consider. "Very clean and easy setup. The campsites on the A loop are a little more on an angle, they converted tent site lots to camper lots so they come with a level tent area as well," advises Johnathan M.
Full hookup availability: Not all sites offer complete services. "Our site was large, but we ended up in a non-sewer lot. Weird, as I booked this trip 6 months earlier, and a number of the sewer lots had tents and pop-ups," reports John about Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Concrete pad considerations: Some military campgrounds offer solid surfaces. "Concrete pads on all of the sites, you weren't camping on top of other campers, hiking trails, and full hookups including cable! You can't beat it for the price!" shares Kevin M. about Kings Creek.
Space between sites: Some glamping areas near Smithfield provide more privacy than others. "Very nice campground, in a wooded area, by a lake/reservoir, has about 25 spots (FH), you can only book up to 90 days, and for a total of 180 days in a year. Quiet :)" notes Maria K. about Bethel Park.
