Best Campgrounds near Surry, VA
Campgrounds near Surry, Virginia range from established state parks to dispersed camping areas, with several options located along waterways. Chippokes State Park Campground, situated on the Cobham Bay, offers tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and glamping options within a historic plantation setting that dates back to 1619. Approximately 15 miles northwest, Chickahominy Riverfront Park provides waterfront camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites. The region includes both public and private camping facilities, with mixed-use campgrounds accommodating various camping styles from primitive tent camping to fully-equipped RV sites with water, electric, and sewer connections.
Camping availability in the area follows seasonal patterns, with most campgrounds operating from spring through fall. Chippokes State Park Campground is open from the last Friday in March until the first Monday in December, while other facilities like American Heritage RV Park and Thousand Trails Williamsburg remain open year-round. Reservations are recommended, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends when waterfront sites fill quickly. The Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area offers free primitive camping but requires a permit, providing an alternative for those seeking a more rustic experience. Cell service varies by location, with Verizon reported to have good coverage at Chippokes. A review noted that "Verizon service was great" at Chippokes State Park Campground.
Water access represents a significant draw for campers in the Surry area, with several campgrounds situated along the James River, Chickahominy River, or Cobham Bay. Campers frequently mention the beaches at Chippokes State Park as a highlight, though one reviewer observed they were "very nice" but noted that "the water is sooo unpleasantly warm" in summer. The Eagle Nest Lookout in Chickahominy WMA offers a more secluded experience with river views from a small knoll, described by one visitor as "exceptional for those that like to primitive camp." Proximity to historical attractions adds value to the camping experience, with Jamestown and Williamsburg accessible via the Jamestown Ferry from Surry. Most developed campgrounds provide standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and access to bathhouses, though reviews indicate maintenance quality varies between facilities.