The Townsend area offers limited dedicated equestrian camping facilities. Located on Virginia's eastern shore region, Townsend sits within a coastal plain with elevations rarely exceeding 50 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the vicinity primarily serve tent and RV campers, with several state parks providing water access but lacking specialized horse accommodations.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling opportunities: Northwest River Park & Campground provides access to blackwater paddling routes. "Canoes and paddle boats are available to rent for use in black water," notes Heather L., making it accessible even for visitors without their own equipment.
Fishing and wildlife viewing: The coastal location provides diverse fishing opportunities. At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can experience unique catches. "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin," reports Annemarie R., adding practical advice about handling certain species.
Beach exploration: Multiple beaches offer varying experiences. "There are 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not," explains Annemarie R. about Kiptopeke. These beaches connect to the campgrounds via wooden boardwalks, some of which are wheelchair accessible.
What campers like
Waterfront access: The James River shoreline provides recreational opportunities at Chippokes State Park Campground. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son!" reports Susan P., highlighting the family-friendly water conditions.
Spacious bathroom facilities: Clean, well-maintained facilities matter to campers. "The bathrooms/showers are huge!" shares Philip S. about Chippokes, while Gary D. notes at Northwest River Park that "showers/bathrooms [are] huge" and well-maintained.
Historical attractions: The region offers historical sites alongside natural areas. "This hidden gem is just a short distance from Williamsburg but yet so remote! The still working farm and homes are a treasure of how life and farms ran back in the day," explains Rose H. about Chippokes Plantation.
What you should know
Weather and flooding concerns: Low-lying areas can experience water issues. At Chesapeake Campground, campers warn about potential flooding: "A storm hit right after I got here and now I'm sitting in about 8 inches of water!" reports Kelly W. Similarly, Anna S. advises, "They need to know that if you go on a rainy season bring boots."
Site variations: Campground layouts vary significantly. "The campsites on the A loop are a little more on an angle, they converted tent site lots to camper lots," explains Johnathan M. about Chippokes State Park, providing practical site selection advice.
Limited trash disposal: Some parks have unusual trash management. At Northwest River Park, Sheri K. notes, "There are no garbage cans or dumpsters near the campsites. The only garbage containers I found were near the dump station, which is on the way out of the park."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Kiptopeke State Park Campground offers family learning experiences. "This park is a nice place to bring your family to camp, fish, crab and relax by the beach and collect seashells," reports Annemarie R., combining multiple activities in one location.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several parks offer activities specifically for children. At Chesapeake Campground, Audriana V. shares, "The camp store is great. It has ice cream, which my kids loved," adding there are "a lot of child friendly activities to do here."
Wildlife encounters: Evening wildlife viewing opportunities exist. Gabby B. reports at Kiptopeke, "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc," providing natural observation opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Kiptopeke State Park, experienced RVers recommend specific locations. "Try and get C loop spots 15-21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop," advises Aaron S., adding that "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not."
Sunlight exposure considerations: Tree cover varies significantly between sites. Ashley I. cautions about Kiptopeke that "1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover," which affects comfort during summer months when shade is valuable for temperature control.
Water hookup variability: Not all sites have equal amenities. Gary D. notes at Northwest River Park that "water [is] NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks," suggesting RVers should plan accordingly when arriving.
