Powhatan State Park Canoe-in Campsites

Open — Open year-round for reservations. Some sites are held for walk-in or paddle-in availability only and cannot be guaranteed prior to arrival.

About

Located along the historic James River in Powhatan County, this primitive campground provides a true backcountry experience within Virginia State Parks. Nine primitive campsites are accessible either by canoe or kayak via the James River (using Launch B, reserved for campers only) or by hiking 0.2 miles from the parking area with your gear. Each site accommodates up to six guests and two camping units, featuring a 12x12 tent pad with picnic table and grill, plus a 16x16 pad with lantern hanger. The campground operates year-round and can be reserved online or by phone, though some sites are held for walk-in or paddle-in availability only. The park sits on 2.5 miles of James River waterfront with three car-top boat launches. Paddlers can enjoy a generally flat 2-mile float between launches. The surrounding 1,565-acre park offers about 12 miles of multi-use trails through diverse habitats including open fields, upland pine forests, and mature hardwoods, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The primitive campground has a composting toilet but no bathhouse, electricity, or running water. Campers seeking more amenities can use the River Bend Campground bathhouse located approximately 0.5 miles away. The park office and gift shop operates 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, with late arrival packets available. This campground appeals to paddlers and backpackers seeking solitude and a wilderness camping experience along one of Virginia's most historic waterways.

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.

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