Blackwater Birds and Bees provides designated camping sites with river access on a working farm near Suffolk, Virginia. The property maintains five sites with fire pits and picnic tables, spaced several minutes apart for privacy. Campers have access to clean bathroom facilities, fresh drinking water, and complimentary watercraft for use on both the river and on-site pond. The farm store offers local products including fresh eggs, herbs, homemade wine, and honey from their apiary.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Northwest River Park offers access to the blackwater river system where anglers catch unique species. "I got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin. By the way, a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it," reports Annemarie R. about Kiptopeke State Park Campground.
Paddling adventures: The waterways near Suffolk provide both river and coastal paddling options. "Virginia has some wonderful state parks and this is one of my favorites. I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," explains Stuart M. about Kiptopeke State Park.
Historic site exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to working farms and historic plantations. "The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day and how they can survive into the future," notes Rose H. about Chippokes State Park Campground.
What campers like
Beach access: The coastal location offers swimming and shoreline activities. "The park has 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not. There are wooden boardwalk trails in the park and a few of them lead to different areas on the beach," shares Annemarie R.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain well-kept amenities. "Overall amazed at the cleanliness of the campground. The staff is very friendly. The park was very quiet going into the night," reports Joseph H. about Northwest River Park & Campground.
Ferry access: Some campgrounds provide convenient transportation options. "About 5 miles away is the ferry to Williamsburg...it's free and usually a highlight of the trip for the kids!" notes Philip S. about Chippokes State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly. "The A loop campsites 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," explains Johnathan M. about Chippokes State Park.
Equestrian camping options: For those seeking horse campgrounds near Suffolk, Virginia, several facilities accommodate riders. "Equestrian trails available, which is always a plus," mentions Elizabeth V. about Northwest River Park & Campground.
Seasonal flooding: Waterfront locations can experience high water. "Because this area is near wetlands some of the campsites were flooded throughout the weekend. If rain a lot of rain is forecasted you may want to talk to one of the rangers about your particular site," warns Nicole L.
Tips for camping with families
Activity variety: Multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "There were a lot of child friendly activities to do here. The showers were nice and the bathrooms were very clean. The camp store is great. It has ice cream, which my kids loved," shares Audriana V. about Chesapeake Campground.