Chippokes Plantation State Park in Surry provides the closest camping options to Williamsburg, Virginia. Located on the James River, the park's campground operates from late March through early December with shaded sites that accommodate tents, RVs, and cabins. Water and electric hookups are available at most sites. Campers should note that while the park features multiple trails and outdoor recreation opportunities, it doesn't offer designated equestrian facilities or horse camping areas.
What to do
Beach exploration: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy the Chesapeake Bay shoreline with designated swimming areas. "This park is a nice place to bring your family to camp, fish, crab and relax by the beach and collect seashells. It has 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not," notes Annemarie R.
Kayaking: Paddling opportunities abound near Williamsburg. Christina from Chippokes State Park Campground recommends: "Definitely recommend following the river inland and kayaking through the marshland."
Historical exploration: The working farm at Chippokes dates back to 1619 and offers a glimpse into Virginia's agricultural past. "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," writes Rose H.
Swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming facilities during summer months. At Pocahontas State Park Campground, campers appreciate the clean pool alongside other activities. Dustin F. mentions the "clean and huge campsites, great pool, great hiking and biking trails."
What campers like
Spacious, wooded sites: Many campgrounds feature well-spaced sites with shade coverage. Johnathan M. at Chippokes notes: "Very clean and easy setup. The campsites 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."
Clean facilities: Kiptopeke State Park Campground maintains well-kept amenities according to visitors. "This is a great campground. Well maintained, nice and quiet. C loop has full hookup where A and B do not... The bathhouses are a little dirty, but not terrible," shares Aaron S.
Proximity to attractions: Chesapeake Campground provides convenient access to Virginia Beach. "It's about 40 mins from the beach. We tent camped and had a blast. The showers were nice and the bathrooms were very clean. The camp store is great. It has ice cream, which my kids loved," says Audriana V.
Camp stores: Several parks maintain on-site stores with camping essentials and treats. John M. at Chippokes State Park Campground mentions: "Large campsites. Well maintained. Got last available site & never felt crowded. Pool fee included with campsite."
What you should know
No equestrian camping: Despite searches for horse campgrounds near Williamsburg, Virginia, none of the reviewed campgrounds offer horse corrals or dedicated equestrian camping facilities. Riders seeking horse-friendly trails and camping should consider alternatives in other regions of Virginia.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds near Williamsburg operate seasonally. Chippokes is open from late March through early December, while others like Pocahontas State Park remain open year-round.
Site selection matters: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, Elizabeth N. advises: "Arrive early to choose shady spots." Similarly, Ashley I. notes: "1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover. 1st row not very level sites."
Ferry access: The Jamestown Ferry provides a convenient river crossing to Williamsburg attractions from Chippokes Plantation. Philip S. mentions: "About 5 miles away is the ferry to Williamsburg...its free and usually a highlight of the trip for the kids!"
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Chesapeake Campground caters to families with various activities. Audriana V. shares: "There were a lot of child friendly activities to do here... The camp store is great. It has ice cream, which my kids loved."
Beach areas for children: Some campgrounds offer shallow water areas ideal for younger children. At Chippokes, Susan P. found: "The water at the beaches is so shallow, great for my son! It's a beautiful place!"
Consider teen appeal: Older children and teenagers need more engaging activities. Virginia B. from Chippokes reports: "Great Campground! We took 6 teenagers camping and they had a blast! Especially the pool!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many parks offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Kiptopeke, Gabby B. notes: "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc; sites are nice and big."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Pocahontas State Park Campground accommodates larger RVs but knowing which loops work best helps. N P. advises: "Site 118 was perfect for our camper van. Could see one site across the road but other neighbors were mostly hidden."
Hookup availability: At Kiptopeke, hookup options vary by loop. Aaron S. points out: "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not," while at Pocahontas, Ashley I. notes: "No sewer hookups (they do have 30/50amp)."
Site privacy considerations: Privacy between sites varies significantly between campgrounds and loops. Joseph H. at Kiptopeke observes: "I thoroughly enjoyed my spot being in a cul-de-sac. But driving back to my spot I noticed all the A and B spots for trailers are just on top of each other."
