Virginia’s capital offers all the excitement of a big city, but surrounding Richmond is an area steeped in history, filled with quaint towns, and fun-filling attractions.
Virginia offers many places to camp for tenters and RV owners (Photo: Virginia State Parks via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Visit Richmond promotes an eclectic culture spawned by craft beer, more than 900 restaurants, and an underground music scene, but those looking to bring an RV or pitch a tent need to look outside the city. The surrounding countryside offers access to the city, plus proximity to amusement parks, nature activities, and historic spots from the founding of the nation and the US Civil War. Here are our picks for 5 of the best places to spend time in an RV, tent, or cabin near Richmond.
Cozy Acres Campground
Husband and wife Larry and Jean Daniel opened the Cozy Acres Campground in 1974. Located in scenic Powhatan County, Cozy Acres is an easy, 40-mile drive from Downtown Richmond. The most unique thing about Cozy Acres are the antique fire engine rides offered every weekend, which coincide with themed weekends and other fun events. Anglers enjoy the farm-raised catfish pond just as nature enthusiasts enjoy the surrounding hiking trails. A spectacular game room, with vintage pinball, pool, and more, offers entertainment on rainy days. Beyond standard sites, Cozy Acres provide Super Sites and VIP Sites, some with waterfront views.
2177 Ridge Road, Powhatan
Americamps RV Resort is located in the quirky, picturesque town of Ashland (Photo: Michael C. Upton for TravelMag)
Americamps RV Resort
Americamps RV Resort is founded on providing respect, accountability, perseverance, integrity, and discipline. The 184-site complex is big rig friendly and offers Good Sam and military discounts. Americamps offers some high-end amenities like a Rally Room for family gatherings and events, a deck overlooking the BBQ area and fire pit, plus a fully equipped fitness center. Pet owners enjoy the fenced, leash-free dog parks. The campground sits five miles south of Ashland and the picturesque downtown is home to thriving shops and eateries; train enthusiasts visit the city as an active railroad runs right through the middle of town.
11322 Air Park Rd, Ashland
Anvil Campground
Simplicity and location make the Anvil Campground a smart choice for a visit to Richmond’s history filled Virginia Peninsula. Voted the 2018 National RV Park of the Year, Anvil is a convenient drive to Colonial Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement America’s Revolution Museum at Yorktown, and Yorktown Battlefield. Premium patio sites include concrete pads for parking an RV, and sites are outfitted with fire pits, picnic tables made from recycled plastic, and new grills. When not visiting the local sights, campers enjoy a horseshoe pit, a basketball court, and a seasonal pool. Bus service to many area attractions is offered by Williamsburg Area Transit Authority. 243 Mooretown Rd, Williamsburg
Campers at Richmond North / Kings Dominion KOA can walk to the entrance of the amusement park (Photo: David Blaikie via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)
Richmond North / Kings Dominion KOA
The KOA is the largest system of privately owned campgrounds operating in North America. KOA’s are set to a high standard and allow members access to clean and modern campgrounds. The Richmond North / Kings Dominion KOA is located in the community of Doswell, 26 miles north of Richmond and only one mile from the entrance to Kings Dominion amusement park. This campground offers RV and tent sites, plus three types of cabins. There are discounts for military members, first responders, and retirees. Campers are entertained beyond discount tickets to the amusement park with life-size checkers, traditional sports, and a seasonal pool. 10061 Kings Dominion Blvd, Doswell
Sunrise on the Pond at All Good Acres
The pastoral setting of Beaverdam, Virginia offers natural beauty and seclusion only miles from Richmond metro area. This secluded, single-site camp spot is hosted by a Marine and his wife who made the area their home in retirement. The area includes an 8-acre pond full of wildlife, including river otters. The pond is stocked with fish and features a dock. A tour of the neighboring, pesticide- and herbicide-free farm is included with a stay. The site is fully equipped with a queen bed, sun shower, and toilet. Tables, chairs, and grill equipment are provided, too. Trainham Rd, Beaverdam