Dispersed camping near Williamsburg, Virginia offers opportunities for primitive overnight stays on public land without developed facilities. The Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in this region sit within the coastal plain, typically at elevations below 100 feet, with mixed hardwood forests and water access. Weather patterns include high humidity during summer months with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Eagle Nest Lookout, the James River provides notable fishing access. "If you are fishing, the pulled up a 17 pounder and a 25 pounder using a drone to take their lure easy out and someone caught a decent bass," notes one camper. Both shoreline and boat fishing options exist throughout these areas.
Hiking trails: Multiple paths wind through the forest and along waterways at these WMAs. A visitor at Ware Creek Wildlife Management Area mentioned, "Got here late as the sun was going down. Camped in the RAV4. Will explore the area in the morning." The trail networks vary in difficulty but generally follow gentle terrain.
Wildlife observation: The Chickahominy region supports diverse bird populations including waterfowl, wading birds, and songbirds. Early mornings offer prime viewing conditions, especially near water edges. Seasonal hunting may affect wildlife patterns during designated seasons.
What campers like
Waterfront access: The proximity to water ranks high among visitor preferences. One camper at Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area Site shared, "I arrived with a small (18') trailer and put it within 5' of the water. Since it's a WMA you can set up anywhere but this place has about 15 cleared areas any one of which I would have been happy with."
Seclusion options: While some areas see regular use, particularly by anglers, quieter camping spots can be found. "There are 5,217 acres in Charles City County, Virginia. Mainly forested in the coastal plains of tidewater, Virginia," reports a visitor about the broader Chickahominy WMA, indicating substantial space for finding isolated sites.
Free camping availability: Virginia residents with valid fishing or hunting licenses can access free dispersed camping for up to 14 days. A visitor confirmed: "Basic parking spot in quiet location... you can purchase $4 daily pass or if Virginia residents free 14 days camping complementary as well with any fishing license or hunting license if you have."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Non-residents must purchase a $4 daily use permit through phone, website, or app. "Camping here is free but there is a $4 daily use fee to be in the WMA that you can pay via phone, website or app tho the clunkiness of the website and app make it hard," notes a camper.
Noise considerations: Some areas experience noise from nearby shooting ranges. A visitor to Eagle Nest Lookout reported, "Be aware that you will be able to hear the shooting range up till the evening. In my opinion these areas are not necessarily the best place for quiet secluded camping."
Pack-in, pack-out essentials: These areas have no facilities whatsoever—no restrooms, trash service, or water. Campers must bring all supplies including drinking water and sanitation supplies.
Trash issues: Several campers report problems with litter. "There was quite a bit of trash dispersed in this area in which we picked up," mentioned one visitor, indicating the importance of following leave-no-trace principles.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: For family camping, choose cleared areas away from boat ramps which tend to see more traffic. At Eagle Nest Lookout, "There is a large shoreline area to car camp and right up the hill is a nice tent site as well overlooking the river," offering options for positioning tents.
Water safety precautions: The James River and other waterways have variable currents and limited visibility. Children should always wear life vests near water edges, and swimming should be approached with caution due to lack of lifeguards.
Elevated camping spots: Eagle Nest Lookout features some higher-ground options. "You can't see it from the road but there is a beaten narrow path that leads from the end of the road up to a small knoll. At the top is an area about 20 feet wide covered in mature trees with a view of the James River," describes one camper.
Tips from RVers
Trailer access points: The Chickahominy WMA provides vehicle access to waterfront sites. "As a bonus there is a raised area—about 20' above the drivable area—that would be perfect for a campfire and a tent or two," notes one RVer who brought a small trailer.
Weekend planning: Weekends see increased use, particularly during hunting seasons. "Weekends some hunters and shooting range close by in other side," reports a camper, suggesting weekdays offer more solitude for RV camping.
Generator restrictions: Unlike many dispersed camping areas, generator use appears common at certain sites. One visitor noted generators running "up until 4:30 am" at Eagle Nest Lookout, which could be beneficial information for RVers requiring power but problematic for tent campers seeking quiet.
