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Northwest River Park & Campground
Overview
Northwest River Park & Campground is a sprawling 763-acre recreational area managed by the city of Chesapeake. The facility combines a traditional campground experience with extensive outdoor activities, serving as a premier destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the distinct ecology of Southeast Virginia. The park offers a peaceful atmosphere where the sounds of the city are replaced by the rustle of leaves and the ripples of the Northwest River, making it a true natural oasis for regional travelers.
Location & Surroundings
Located in the southern portion of Chesapeake, the park is situated near the North Carolina border and the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The landscape is characterized by its lush freshwater swamps, dense hardwood forests, and blackwater streams. This proximity makes it a convenient gateway for travelers moving between Virginia and the coastal regions of North Carolina. The surrounding area remains largely undeveloped, providing a unique geographic setting that feels remote while remaining within a short drive of the Hampton Roads metropolitan area.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground features 66 sites, many of which provide electric and water hookups suitable for various RV sizes. Visitors have access to clean bathhouses, a laundry facility, and a convenient dump station. The park is well-equipped for recreation with several key features:
- An 18-hole disc golf course and miniature golf for family fun.
- A stocked fishing lake and boat rentals for kayaks or canoes.
- Over eight miles of multi-use trails for hiking and equestrian use.
These facilities ensure that guests have plenty of options for staying active and exploring the waterways directly from the park docks during their visit.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Exploring the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail is a popular choice for cyclists and hikers located just a short drive away. For those interested in coastal excursions, the beaches of Virginia Beach and the Outer Banks are accessible for day trips. Locally, the Chesapeake Arboretum offers beautiful gardens and educational displays. The nearby Hickory region provides charming local dining and agricultural experiences, ensuring there is plenty to do within a thirty-minute radius of the campground.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts and families who prefer a rustic, activity-filled environment over a commercial resort. It is a haven for bird watchers and photographers looking to capture the beauty of the Virginia wetlands. RVers who appreciate large, wooded sites and easy access to hiking and paddling will find this park to be a refreshing change of pace. It is perfect for those who want to disconnect while still having access to recreational facilities for children and groups.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Nathan Funk
Beautiful! Simply beautiful. Nice park with lots to do for family. Great hiking trails, disk golf, playgrounds, camping, kayak, horseshoe and Cornhole area.
Lawrence Fraker
Rental Canoes & kayaks, miles of trails ranging from easy to medium, even miniature golf. I haven't investigated the campsites, but everything else is excellent. they're building a new office/store by the pond, which looks like it will be gorgeous when it is done. currently the office is in a trailer in parking lot 1
Cindi Courter
Enjoyed hiking the trails here with East Coast Hikers. Well maintained and marked trails. Four parking lots. Kayak and canoe rentals. Camping, too! A wonderful place to get out into Nature!
X. B.
This park is beautiful! Very well shaded and peaceful. Perfect place for a leisurely stroll or fast-paced walk.
Mark R. Greenwood
Really enjoyed the stay. Had Spot 1. Don't take that spot unless you love hearing kids play all day (from early morning to dusk) at the playground immediately across the road. Decent bathroom and shower facilities. A bit buggy but overall clean and within an easy walk regardless of where your spot is. Electric at sites (30 Amp) but water has shared hookups so bring your longest water hoses. No black-tank hookup but a Dump Station on site on the way out (another reason not to take Site 1). ;) Reasonable rates ($30 per night). Come fully equipped because the Camp Store has none of the usual camping items such as small propane bottles, batteries, camp stove gas, charcoal, or even ice or firewood. Staff is friendly. Canoe, kayaking, and paddle boat rental available. Very nice little lake (no swimming) and a little river that is beautiful for paddling. We enjoyed our visit and will very likely be back.