Surry County camping areas offer shoreline sites along the James and York Rivers, with moderate humidity typical of coastal Virginia. Summer daytime temperatures range from 80-95°F while spring and fall camping provides milder 60-70°F conditions. Most campgrounds in the region maintain mature hardwood forests that provide natural shade for tent and RV campers seeking upscale glamping accommodations or traditional camping experiences.
What to do
Kayaking river marshlands: At Chickahominy Riverfront Park, paddlers can explore calm waters ideal for beginners. "Definitely recommend following the river inland and kayaking through the marshland," suggests Christina, who gave the experience five stars. The park offers boat rentals and fishing access with specialized night fishing opportunities.
Fossil hunting: Explore the beaches at First Landing State Park Campground where prehistoric remnants wash up regularly. "Hunt for sharks teeth on the beach," recommends Danielle H., highlighting one of the park's most popular activities. The shoreline areas offer easy access for families and casual collectors.
Historical exploration: Chickahominy Riverfront Park serves as an excellent base for historical tourism. "The campground is in a great location to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestowne, and Yorktown and is a great home base for exploring those sites," notes Ashleigh M. The Virginia Capital Trail also runs near the campground, offering biking access to historical landmarks.
What campers like
Clean modern facilities: Machicomoco State Park gets high marks for its new infrastructure. "All the facilities are new and very clean. I love that the campground bathrooms are all unisex/family bathrooms and there are plenty of them," notes Katie M. The park maintains spotless restrooms with individual shower stalls.
River views: Chippokes State Park Campground offers premium waterfront sites. "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure," shares Rose H. Sites along the water provide both privacy and scenic vistas.
Wooded privacy: Many campsites at Pocahontas State Park provide natural separation. "Some of the campsites are surrounded with forest. Very quiet and peaceful," writes Gregg S. The mature tree canopy throughout the camping loops creates natural sound barriers between sites.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Surry have railroad tracks nearby. At Anvil Campground, "The train is close that it shakes our RV," reports one camper. Similarly, at Ed Allen's Campground, "if you are a light sleeper you will hear those trains throughout the night," warns Alexas H.
Walk-in tent sites: At Machicomoco State Park, non-electric tent sites require short walks from parking. "You have to park on the road and walk all your gear in. It's not very far though, I counted about 100 steps to site 13," explains Katie M. Bringing a wagon or cart makes gear transport easier.
Weather preparedness: Summer humidity can be challenging for tent campers. "I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick," warns Grace M. about her experience at First Landing State Park. Spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Military Park Langley AFB Bethel Recreation Area offers excellent play facilities. "Our boys (8, 6, & 4) had so much fun on the big playground and paddle boating," shares Kimberly F. The campground maintains both a small playground within the camping area and a larger play area with climbing features adjacent to the campground.
Pool amenities: Many local campgrounds feature swimming pools perfect for children. At Chickahominy Riverfront Park, "There's a pool and splash pad as well as boating ramp and fishing docks," notes Samantha G. Most pools operate seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Educational opportunities: Machicomoco State Park offers cultural learning experiences. "Lots to do in park including trails, a car-top boat launch, and tons of information on the Native American tribes of the area," writes Katie M. Rangers often conduct weekend programs specifically designed for younger visitors.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Thousand Trails Williamsburg, experienced RVers recommend calling rather than booking online. "Suggest calling over online booking," advises Trina C., noting that "sites are close, many are not level, not very big rig friendly and satellite is near impossible due to trees."
Dump station access: When visiting Chippokes State Park Campground, "The sites 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," shares Johnathan M. The campground provides both partial and full-hookup options depending on loop selection.
Seasonal considerations: Multiple campgrounds in the region face drainage challenges during heavy rains. At Thousand Trails Williamsburg, "The mud and puddles were so bad we couldn't locate the sewer connection," notes one camper. Planning visits during drier months ensures easier site setup and breakdown.
