Powhatan State Park Canoe-in Campsites

About

Powhatan State Park's canoe-in campground offers a unique primitive camping experience on the banks of the James River. Located in Powhatan County, the nine sites are accessible either by paddling directly to Launch B (reserved for registered campers only) or by hiking approximately 0.2 miles from the parking area with your gear. This setup makes it ideal for paddlers exploring the James River Water Trail or hikers seeking a backcountry feel within an established state park. Each campsite includes a 12x12 foot pad equipped with a picnic table and grill, plus a larger 16x16 foot pad with a lantern hanger for additional tent space or gear storage. Sites accommodate up to six guests and two camping units. The campground has a composting toilet but no bathhouse or shower facilities, and campers must bring their own drinking water as none is available on-site. Reservations can be made online through Virginia State Parks or by calling the reservation center. Note that some sites are held for walk-in or canoe-in arrivals only, meaning availability for those specific sites cannot be guaranteed in advance. Site assignments are specific, with designated site numbers since January 2022.

Directions

From Richmond, take I-64 west to exit 167 for VA-617 toward Oilville/Goochland. Turn left onto State Route 617/Oilville Road. Turn right onto US-250W for 0.8 miles, then left onto State Route 632 Fairgrounds Road. Follow 632 for 3 miles and turn left onto State Route 634 Maidens Road. At the stoplight, continue straight onto Route 522 (Maidens Road) for 1.9 miles to Route 617 west (Old River Trail). Turn right and go 1.5 miles to the park entrance on the right. The canoe-in campground is accessible via Launch B on the James River or by hiking 0.2 miles from the parking area.