Williamsburg campsites stretch across Virginia's coastal plain within the Mid-Atlantic region, where summer temperatures reach the upper 80s with humidity levels often exceeding 80%. The campgrounds surrounding Colonial Williamsburg sit at elevations between 10-50 feet above sea level, creating flat terrain that's accessible for campers of all experience levels. Most sites experience moderate rainfall year-round, with thunderstorms common during summer months.
What to do
Explore historical waterways: Kings Creek offers direct access to the York River where campers can kayak through marshlands. "There are more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, fishing on two lakes and the York River along with an 18 hole golf course," notes a visitor to Military Park Cheatham Annex.
Visit historic plantations: Located within 20 minutes of Williamsburg, Chippokes State Park Campground offers access to one of America's oldest continuously working farms. "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," says Rose H. The park features shoreline access, a swimming pool, and trails connecting to historic buildings.
Shark tooth hunting: At Chippokes State Park, riverside beaches offer unique fossil hunting opportunities. "Hunt for sharks teeth on the beach. Pool is very clean," advises Danielle H. The York River shorelines contain fossils dating back millions of years, making beach combing a popular activity after storms when new material is exposed.
What campers like
Convenient ferry access: Campers at Chippokes State Park appreciate the free ferry service to Williamsburg. "About 5 miles away is the ferry to Williamsburg...its free and usually a highlight of the trip for the kids!" says Philip S. The Jamestown-Scotland Ferry operates daily with crossings every 30 minutes during peak hours.
Train watching: Despite noise concerns for some pets, many families specifically enjoy the railroad experience at Anvil Campground. "The train was AMAZING i loved it," reports Abby G., while another camper notes, "The train that passes by is great for kids and you barely notice it."
Kid-friendly amenities: Beyond standard playground equipment, area campgrounds offer specialized children's activities. "The grandkids loved the zip line," shares a visitor to Anvil Campground about their fenced-in playground. "They have a game room and grilling! We can't wait to return in the summer when the pool is open and they serve cool treats for the kids!"
What you should know
Limited site privacy: Most campgrounds feature open layouts with minimal visual barriers. At Williamsburg KOA, a camper observed, "Small sights, no division-packed in tight...a bit too open for me." Plan your stay during weekdays when occupancy is lower for better spacing.
Weather considerations: The coastal location means rapid weather changes and potential flooding. "We prepared for the passing thunderstorms. We picked up tarps and ropes and strung them up over our cooking area and the entrance to our tents," shared one camper at Chickahominy Riverfront Park.
Alcohol restrictions vary: Unlike most area campgrounds, American Heritage RV Park prohibits alcohol consumption. This policy makes it particularly suitable for families seeking an alcohol-free environment or groups with recovery concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Pack for water activities: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming opportunities beyond standard pools. "The water at the beaches is so shallow great for my son!" shares Susan P. about Chippokes State Park. Water shoes are recommended as riverbanks can be muddy.
Plan for early departing fishermen: Campgrounds near boat launches experience early morning activity. A visitor to Chickahominy Riverfront Park warned, "The place is overrun with fishermen launching boats before dawn. And I mean 25-50 trucks/trailers/boats each morning." Light sleepers should request sites away from boat ramps.
Visit off-peak for best experience: Crowding affects site quality during summer weekends. At Thousand Trails Williamsburg, weekday visits provide better site selection. "We were pre-assigned a site and not given a choice," noted one camper who arrived during a busy period.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for uneven sites: Many older campgrounds have challenging leveling conditions. At Newport News Park, a camper observed, "Many are deceptively unlevel, particularly on the outside of the loops, and are heavily wooded. Some loops are primitive, some have only 20A service and some have 30A service and water hookup."
Bring extended water hoses: Hookup placement varies significantly between campgrounds. "You need at least a 25' hose," advises an RVer who visited American Heritage RV Park, noting that standard 15' hoses often fall short of reaching water connections.
Check road conditions before arrival: Some campgrounds experience access problems during wet weather. A visitor to Thousand Trails Williamsburg reported, "They had unfortunately been a victim of the rain and the main road to the campground had washed out. Alternative routes were set up to enter and exit."
