Encompassing a 26-acre lakeside property, Lake Chesdin Campground offers both short-term and long-term stays, with 150 total sites. The establishment initially began operating as a campground circa the 1980s, and the current owners of the business have made an effort to create a family-oriented atmosphere for their visitors since they took ownership. Both the lake and the park itself can offer a fairly wide range of outdoor activities for patrons to enjoy throughout their stay, with some of the more popular lake activities being boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Pets are welcome to accompany guests at Lake Chesdin Campground, and a nearby peninsula extending into the lake provides the space for pet owners' dogs to roam without a leash.
Lake Chesdin Campground is located slightly east of Virginia's central region along the coast of Lake Chesdin. A total of 150 sites are available for visitors to reserve, which are divided into the following classifications: monthly stays, extended stays, seasonal sites, nightly stays, and weekly stays. It should be noted as well that 10 of these sites are designated as primitive spaces for tent campers. As for the RV sites, all are back-in spaces with full hookups that are equipped with 30- and 50-amp electrical services. Twelve sites are directly located along the lake, though regardless of which site visitors choose to stay in, a view of Lake Chesdin can be seen, according to a staff member of the campground.
Occupying a 26-acre expanse, the property comprises several features and amenities for patrons to utilize over the course of their stay. Three shower houses are provided at the campground, one of which is situated at the front of the premises by the main office, while another is found in the middle of the park, and another by the beach area and lakefront sites. A horseshoe pit, volleyball court, basketball court, and a sandy beach area are all available on-site, as well as two covered pavilions, both of which supply electricity. One of these pavilions can also be rented out for private events, as an open brick fireplace can provide the means for a cookout. For those of a younger demographic, a playground with a swing set and slide constitutes a portion of the acreage. In addition to the previously noted activities that guests have access to during their time at Lake Chesdin Campground, three boat launches are also available on-site, which are open to the general public. Campers who plan on engaging in lake recreation are given the option to rent a kayak or paddleboat from the establishment if they please. A staff member of Lake Chesdin Campground remarks that, oftentimes, patrons tend to fish along the peninsula of the lake. The campground's website lists some of the specific species of fish that inhabit the lake, namely largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, white perch, and channel catfish.
Many of Virginia's major cities can be found in the vicinity of the campground. Richmond is reportedly located an approximate 40-minute drive north of the property. The Virginia State University can also be found roughly 16 miles from the establishment. Lake Chesdin Campground's proximity to these prominent cities can offer visitors the opportunity to visit a variety of attractions. The staff of the establishment frequently recommends that their patrons go to Virginia Motorsports Park and Petersburg National Battlefield. With regard to the nearby dining options, Brother's Pizza, El Caporal Mexican Restaurant, and Corner Market BBQ are a few suggestions from the owners and staff of Lake Chesdin Campground.
The owners and staff of Lake Chesdin Campground intend to offer their guests an experience that can allow them to "unplug from the everyday hustle and bustle of life and recharge." Furthermore, a staff member explains that their goal is to help their visitors "get in touch with nature and feel relaxed." Pertaining to this particular objective for the business, the staff believe that the location itself can contribute to this atmosphere that they strive to create. One former patron of the park commented on the environment in a review about their experience, saying, "The park was quiet and relaxing. Just what I needed. They have a lot of amenities for water sports and fishing enthusiasts." The owners also encourage people to bring their kids with them to the property. "We pride ourselves on being a family-oriented campground," one of the staff members comments. In an effort to maintain availability for their guests should they have any questions or concerns during their stay, the staff and owners try to interact with their visitors periodically; however, they generally leave contact to the discretion of their patrons so as not to impose on their individual itineraries.
Concerning the demographic of those who stay at Lake Chesdin Campground, an employee of the business affirms that they receive "all walks of life." The family-friendly nature of the property typically draws families to the establishment, though the owners and staff have also seen retirees and college students as well. Repeat guests also constitute a considerable fraction of those who stay at Lake Chesdin Campground. The business operates year-round for monthly and transient campers, and one of the employees observes that May, June, and July are most commonly the busiest times of year for the property. During Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day, people are often drawn to Lake Chesdin Campground for the live music that the establishment hosts on these holidays.
Several policies and guidelines are implemented at Lake Chesdin Campground. Firstly, glass bottles are restricted near the playground and beach area for the safety of barefoot visitors. For those who are hoping to bring their dog to the campground, Lake Chesdin Campground is a pet-friendly establishment, though it should be noted that dogs must not exhibit any aggressive behavior towards other guests. Pets are also required to be leashed at all times, with the exception of the peninsula. Moreover, quiet hours are enforced starting at 11:00 p.m. and lasting until 8:00 a.m. Finally, everyone is expected to drive at a relatively slow pace along the roads of the park in an effort to foster a safe environment for children who might be playing in their campsite.
What is now known as Lake Chesdin Campground was originally a marina called Allen's Marina, according to a current employee of the business. The marina supposedly operated as a boat-fixing service for locals and visitors. In the 1980s, two new owners took over management of the marina and renamed it Cozy Cove. Soon after, the owners began hosting fishing tournaments at the property, and eventually, people began camping in the area to participate in these events. Upon acquiring ownership, the current owners of the campground changed the name to Lake Chesdin Campground in reference to the neighboring lake and have since enjoyed seeing families spend time together at the property.
713 Sutherland Rd
Church Road, Virginia 20117
United States
Campground
