Camping options near Smithfield, Virginia include a mix of privately-owned and military campgrounds within 30 miles of town. The tidal region sits at near sea level with most campgrounds situated along rivers or Chesapeake Bay tributaries. Summer humidity levels frequently exceed 80% with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August, requiring proper site drainage consideration.
What to do
Beach access and water activities: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers direct water access with "a little beach down from our site and our dogs enjoyed their first dip in the bay," according to Jaime W. The campground sits on a peninsula with water views on multiple sides.
Historic exploration: Thousand Trails Williamsburg provides a strategic base for exploring Colonial Williamsburg. "Great camp ground with a lot of interesting sites to visit in the area," notes Daryl L. The campground sits just 7 miles from the historic district.
Fishing opportunities: Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay offers multiple fishing spots including a pier and pond. "We had never been crabbing and this beautiful rv park has its own crabbing pier," reports Mike T. Seasonal crabbing typically runs May through October with some campgrounds offering crab pot rentals.
Walking trails: Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park provides excellent walking opportunities. "This is a great place to disconnect and take long walks around the base and the beach," writes Leo S. The military facility requires proper ID for access but offers secluded walking paths not found at civilian campgrounds.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Grey's Point Camp earns praise for its riverside setting. "Great campground on a hill, overlooking the rappahannock river," writes Beverly T. Sites along the water offer premium views but require advance booking during summer months.
Concrete pads: American Heritage RV Park features level concrete pads throughout the campground. "The site was perfectly level, clean and well maintained," notes Jason G. The concrete surface provides stability during wet weather when other area campgrounds experience muddy conditions.
Site privacy: Military Park Cheatham Annex offers more separation between sites than many private campgrounds. "The campground has fair site separation with some trees," according to reviewer N.I. The military facility maintains natural buffers between camping areas.
Recreational facilities: Bethpage Camp-Resort provides extensive recreational amenities. "Pool is incredible for all ages. Employees are super friendly. 50amp & 30amp hookup," reports happy_champers. The resort's multi-pool water park complex remains open through early October, weather permitting.
What you should know
Military-only options: Some of the best rv sites near Smithfield, Virginia require military credentials. "This campground is a recreational opportunity for active and retired military and their families," explains Janet R. about Fort Story. Military parks typically offer lower rates but require proper identification.
Seasonal flooding: Thousand Trails Williamsburg experiences drainage issues after heavy rain. "They had unfortunately been a victim of the rain and the main road to the campground had washed out," reports Brenda L. Spring visits may require contingency plans for wet conditions.
Variable site conditions: Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park offers natural settings but limited connectivity. "Cellular signal and Starlink won't work well here and the campground WiFi isn't great," warns Leo S. Many Smithfield area campgrounds have limited digital connections.
Weekend noise levels: Several campgrounds become much busier on weekends. "We were in middle of week and it was calm and quiet but other campers said weekends can be quite boisterous to the point of police being called," notes Tim S. about Grey's Point Camp. Weekday camping offers a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Bethpage Camp-Resort provides multiple water attractions. "It has everything you need and more!! Golf carts, mini golf, ice cream shop, friendly staff, restaurant, water park- amazing," says Our Greight Escape. The water park operates seasonally with reduced hours after Labor Day.
Playground access: Grey's Point Camp offers multiple play areas. "There are waters slides, playgrounds, fishing, water rentals, and campground sponsored fun," notes Scott T. Playground locations vary by campground with some centrally located while others are scattered throughout.
Family-friendly atmosphere: The Colonies RV and Travel Park maintains a welcoming environment. "This place was relaxing and peaceful. It's located on a peninsula with beautiful bay and creek views," according to Jaime W. Family events are typically scheduled on weekends with fewer organized activities midweek.
Accommodation options: Chesapeake Bay RV Resort offers various lodging types. "Sites: 22 with 1 pull thru 13 full hookups 12 Tent sites," lists N.I. about The Colonies. Many campgrounds near Smithfield provide cabin options alongside traditional camping for families without RVs or tents.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Multiple RV parks near Smithfield, Virginia offer various electrical options. "30-50 amp service" is available at Military Park Cheatham Annex according to N.I. Some parks require longer cords depending on hookup locations.
Site selection strategy: The Colonies RV Park offers specific sites with better privacy. "For more privacy (tent campers) ask for site 6 or 7," suggests James A. Many campgrounds allow specific site requests when booking in advance.
Internet reliability: Internet access varies significantly between campgrounds. "T-mobile gateway internet sucks here, but Starlink works well from the site we are in," reports Nick E. about Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay. Cell service boosters help at several locations.
Hookup locations: American Heritage RV Park requires appropriate equipment for connections. "The connection boxes are set back pretty far on the sites, so you need longer hoses/cords," warns Eleanor the Airstream R. about a similar military park. Extended hoses and electrical cords are recommended for most area campgrounds.
