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Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Photo courtesy James City County Parks & Recreation
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Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Photo courtesy James City County Parks & Recreation
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Anvil Campground
Photo courtesy Anvil Campground
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Anvil Campground
Photo courtesy Anvil Campground
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Anvil Campground
Photo courtesy Anvil Campground
As autumn’s cooler temps descend, why not take the kids on an overnight camping trip? Whether camping in a tent, glamping in your well-appointed RV, or “roughing it” in an Amish-made wooden cabin, there’s a camping staycation in greaterWilliamsburg just for you.
Picturesque Chickahominy Riverfront Park is one of James City County’s popular parks. It is located on Route 5 where the Chickahominy River meets Gordon’s Creek. According to Erik Lavender, park coordinator, Chickahominy Riverfront Park is Capital Trail’s only campground, something he dubbed “a great advantage for us.”
There is a 300-foot fishing pier and a boat ramp with kayaks and canoes available for rent. Other amenities include a pool, complete with a splash pad for the kids, and a playground.
The park offers everything from tent sites to full RV hookups. There are no cabins. Want to unplug and lose yourself in nature? You’ll be delighted to learn there is no Wi-Fi or cable.
“We are open year-round, and we offer a reduced rate for residents of Williamsburg and James City County,” Lavender said.
Located a stone’s throw from the Croaker Library, American Heritage RV Park sits on 70 acres of well-tended, manicured green meadows and woodlands. With hiking and nature trails, mini golf, a basketball court, volleyball and a horseshoe pit there are many activities for folks of all ages.
Rachel Rhoads, owner, says American Heritage is more of a glamping park. “We have Wi-Fi and cable and we offer full-service everything. Premium sites include fire pits, umbrella and patio dining sets or picnic tables.”
She is particularly proud of the property’s beauty and grounds. “I think the grounds are what sets us apart, but we’re also known for peace and quiet, even when we’re full. For some of our guests, this is their first camping experience. It’s so gratifying to see them enjoying that outdoor experience.”
There are several sites for tents, but the cabins and cottages are always popular.
Anvil Campground is closer into town within easy walking distance to Waller Mill Park. Owner Chris Jump lives with his family in a home located on the property.
Having recently won the Small Park of the Year award from the National RV Parks Association and the Small Business of the Year from the Greater Williamsburg Chamber and Tourism Alliance, Anvil is like a small neighborhood unto itself.
“We are so family oriented here, and friendly,” Jump said. “I think that’s what we’re known for.”
Anvil offers 60 campsites, including fully-equipped cabins and cottages. “Even the tent sites have cable, Wi-Fi, electric and water. We offer Premium Patio sites that have new concrete pads, stone fire pits, recycled plastic ADA picnic tables, grills; and each site has swings to relax in, right in front of your new stone fire pits!”
“We tend to attract really nice, good people. Our guests are typically families and retirees.”
Lillian Stevens is a long-time (25 years!) resident of James City County. She works as an operations manager in Strategic Initiatives and Public Affairs at William & Mary. A self-described people person, Lillian satisfies her creative side by writing and contributing articles to several Hampton Roads-based magazines.
American Heritage RV Park · 757-566-2133 · americanheritagervpark.com
Anvil Campground · 757-565-2300 · anvilcampground.com
Chickahominy Riverfront Park · 757-585-1229 · visitwilliamsburg.com