The Lower Chickahominy region is centered around the tidal portion of the Chickahominy River located on the southernmost peninsula on the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay. The Lower Chickahominy region includes the Counties of Charles City, James City, and New Kent. The Lower Chickahominy River stretches from Walkers Dam at the eastern edge of Chickahominy Lake downstream to the confluence with the James River. The Lower Chickahominy is home to some of the most impressive tidal freshwater vegetation in the Mid-Atlantic region. Recently, scientists performing fieldwork “noted that the tidal freshwater wetland communities were among the highest quality remaining along Virginia’s tidal rivers.”
The Chickahominy River was named after the Chickahominy Tribe, a Native American tribe that was settled along the river when the English colonists arrived in 1607. The Lower Chickahominy area is about as close as you can get to the first steps of English colonization of the mid-Atlantic; Jamestown was established in what is now southeastern James City County. Currently the region is home to two Tribes: the Chickahominy Tribe based in Charles City County and the Chickahominy Tribe – Eastern Division based in New Kent County.
Paddle among the nearly pristine marshes and swamp forests of the Lower Chickahominy region. View wildlife, fish, explore by boat, bike, hike, or relax with a glass of wine; the Lower Chickahominy region is a choose your own adventure oasis of outdoor fun. You can even travel back in time at one of the many historical and cultural sites that offer visitors a variety of stories, sights, and experiences to enjoy.
After exploring the Lower Chickahominy River and the many surrounding offerings there are several options to camp or stay in the region. Explore the following options to maximize your trip to the Lower Chickahominy region.
River’s Rest Marina & Resort
River’s Rest Marina & Resort Is a 16.5-acre travel destination in Charles City County on the Chickahominy River. The resort offers visitors with several different options of stay including a 21-room inn, as well as a new 126 RV and tiny home sites. Other highlights of the resort include a 68-boat slip marina, boat launch, bait and tackle store, pool, playground, fishing, and on-site restaurant. Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to love all that River’s Rest has to offer.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Chickahominy Riverfront Park is a 140-acre park located on the Chickahominy River in James City County. The park features 120 campgrounds that accommodate 4 to 6 people per site, with picnic seating on-site. Other facilities at the park include two swimming pools, boat ramps, fishing pier, playgrounds, picnic shelters, boat rentals, and a small store. Given the park’s access to the Virginia Capital Trail, this campsite is ideal for those cycling the trail.
Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area
Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area (CWMA) is situated on the eastern shore of the Chickahominy River in Charles City County. Consisting of mainly woodlands, the management area provides a variety of wildlife habitats. The CWMA’s 5,217 acres of land provides visitors with a range of outdoor recreational activities including hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, boat access, horseback riding, and hiking. In addition to these offerings, primitive camping is allowed with written authorization. Camping authorization can be obtained from the Go Outdoors Virginia website or any Department of Wildlife Resources license agent.
Rockahock Campground
Rockahock Campground is located just west of Williamsburg, Jamestown, and Yorktown. It offers visitors several different ways to stay including RV camping sites, lodging, extended stay, annual campgrounds, and mobile park homes. Other family friendly amenities on-site include waterfront views, rockadome amphitheater, clubhouse, events, swimming pool, boat ramps, marina, kayak rentals, basketball court, sand volleyball court, and much more!
Ed Allen’s Campground
Ed Allen’s Campground is in New Kent County just off 64 East, making it accessible to many popular areas like Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, wineries, and much more! This family-owned campground is located on Chickahominy Lake and offers visitors with camping, cottages, boating, canoeing, kayaking, a swimming pool, and a convenience store. Those visiting the Lower Chickahominy region will enjoy the scenic and serene atmosphere Ed Allen’s offers.
Lawrence Lewis, Jr. Park
Don’t let the size of this park fool you, this 24-acre site provides visitors with outdoor recreational activities, wildlife viewing, and historical context. Lawrence Lewis, Jr. Park is located near the Chickahominy River in Charles City County and offers visitors with a primitive camping area great for cyclists using the Virginia Capital Trail and paddlers exploring the river. Registration is required to use the primitive camping area and can be made here.
Primrose Cottage at Two Rivers
Primrose Cottage at Two Rivers is a Williamsburg cottage rental and is located on the Chickahominy River. It accommodates a maximum on 4 people and is also available for long term rentals. This cottage renal is ideal for those looking for a quiet retreat with water access and convenient location.
The Inn at Eagles’ Watch
The Inn at Eagles’ Watch is in Charles City County near the Chickahominy Wildlife Management Area and the Chickahominy River. The original structure dates to 1685 and is considered one of Virginia’s few surviving 17th century brick dwellings. Given its convenient location to the Chickahominy River, this stay is perfect for those looking for a historic place to unwind after a day on the water.
