Laugh S’more & Worry Less in Gloucester, VA!

Calling all camping enthusiasts! Here in Gloucester County, we have three campgrounds that each provide a different outdoor experience. From RVs, tents, cabins, and yurt rentals… there is a spot for you. Here are some of the highlights from each campground. Please note information provided below is subject to change due to seasonal updates & camp operations. Its best to visit their individual websites for booking information.

First Stop: Camp Cardinal

This RV resort is located near Gloucester Point and offers four ways to stay. RV Camping is in high demand and Camp Cardinal is prepared. With back-in sites, pull-thru sites, and back-in bark sites (provide a fenced in area), patio pull-thru sites (concrete patio with grill and fire ring), buddy sites ( perfect if you are camping with up to 4 adults with 2 campers), and the best of them all the quad site ( communal fire pit in the center of 4 camper spots). It’s clear that whatever you are driving or pulling there is a spot with your name on it here.

The cabins and cottages here at Camp Cardinal are perfect for up to 6 people and provide a smaller home away from home experience. These are located in different parts of the campground and provide access to all the fun from your front porch. There are even cottages that sit along the waterfront and provides an one-of-a-kind Gloucester view.

Some campers like to kick it back old school and pitch a tent! Well here at Camp Cardinal there is an opportunity to upgrade that stay a little bit. Book one of the platform tent sites! These are 10X20 raised platforms filled with pea gravel and a lean-to roof that provides shade. The sites have electrical, water, fire ring, picnic tables, and a charcoal grill. WOW!

Bringing the entire family? The last type of rental offered is the Family Camp. This is a full size home (2 bed 2 bath) with everything you need for a week of relaxation.

Now that we have showcased how you can sleep at Camp Cardinal lets talk about ALL the things you can do during the day! This park has an awesome waterpark with slides, water features, and wading pool! Next to that you will find the inflatable fun zone, playground, concession stand, bark park, recreation center, gaga ball court, game room, and there is a train that you can ride around the campground! We cant forget to mention the natural beauty that surrounds the area is not something you will want to miss so hop on a paddle boat, kayak, paddleboard, or enjoy an evening of fishing right off the of the pier.

 There is always something happening at Camp Cardinal and their events page is filled with activities to fill your day. Check it out !

Second stop: Machicocomoco State Park

The saying for this park is “a special meeting place” so what better location for a campground than here! This park offers RV, tent, and yurt sites. Throughout the park you will find nature trails, walking paths, an open-air interpretive pavilion area that tells the history of the Native Americans that once called the area home, and docks/boat launches along the river. The Timberneck House is also a staple at this location and is currently undergoing renovation & preservation efforts by the Fairfield Foundation. The home is open for tours on certain dates.

“Recreational yurts are a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter. Functionally speaking, they’re a cross between a tent and a cabin. Each yurt has a large wooden deck. A picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking grate are located adjacent to the yurt deck.” - Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation

The state park is located in the Hayes area of Gloucester and is just minutes from Main Street or Gloucester Point Beach. This is a great location for observing nature, relaxing, and perfect for those that love history.

Third Stop: Thousand Trails- Chesapeake Bay RV Resort

Last but not least we head North to a campground nestled in the pines & along the banks of the Piankatank River you will find this 280-acre coastal campground. This 2023 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice award winner is a great location for those coming from the Richmond area or Virginia Beach and it sits just minutes from many dining & shopping options on Gloucester’s Main Street. This location is also a Plan-It Green Friendly Park meaning they have made earth friendly initiatives throughout the campground.

This campground hosts a large clubhouse, swimming pool, hiking & biking trails, a playground, dog park, shower & laundry facilities, and cabins that give the ultimate mountain trip vibe. O and 365 total camp sites! Just like the other locations Thousand Trails has plenty of activities, like Labor Day Gone Wild, Pampered Dog Parades, and Ice Cream Float Socials, going on throughout the day. Check out their website for booking information!

We hope this helps with planning your trip to the area! If you would like more information on all the wonderful things to do here in Gloucester, VA please visit our website & follow us on social media.

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