In 2011 Virginia State Parks joined the Virginia Campground Association made up of private campground owners across the Commonwealth.  In this return to the series, I stopped by to see some great friends of mine at the Williamsburg KOA Campground. 

In 1995 I joined the York River State Park staff and stuck around for 10 years before leaving as Park Manager to accept my current position.  Within a 1/4 mile of the park's back gate was Williamsburg KOA Campground.  I quickly made friends with my neighbors, which was easy as they are such nice people.  Donna and Gary Fout are the owners of this family run business.  Donna's parents purchased the campground in 1971 and their son Ted now makes a third generation providing quality service.  My connection to their campground goes a little deeper than being a good neighbor as their Operations Manager, Wayne Moulton, was first hired by me at the park at the age of 16

A great visit with my friend Wayne (l)

I think this campground is one of the premier locations for a vacation.  It is an easy 2 minute ride off of I-64 and away from all the noise of busy Williamsburg.  However, it isn't far to all the outlet shopping and major attractions in the area like, Busch Gardens, Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown and Jamestown.  In addition, York River State Park is in their backyard with over 25 miles of hiking, biking, mountain biking and equestrian trails.  For fishermen, the park also has Croaker Landing Boat Launch onto the river, a 200 foot fishing pier for saltwater fishing and a 7 acre freshwater pond.  Throughout the year the park staff conducts numerous interpretive programs highlighted by their canoe and kayak trips.  So, with so much at the fingertips of campers at KOA there is an endless supply of possibilities.  However, if after a long trip you rather find your fun at the campground, there is plenty of activities for young and old. 

Their deluxe cabins have everything for your comfort, including your own bathroom. 

The campground consists of 180 acres, 100 of which is undeveloped, offering wonderful hikes on their trails and a chance to view birds and wildlife.  There are a wide range of choices for camping, from full hookup deluxe patio sites, to basic tent sites.  If you are new to camping, maybe you would be interested in a cabin stay.  Their cabins range from 1 room camping cabins to well appointed deluxe cabins that sleep 6.  The full hookup campsites and most of the cabins have cable television hookups to make your stay feel more like home.  There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the campground, just in case you need to stay "connected."  It is a pet friendly campground, including the cabins, so bring your best friend and take advantage of their Kamp K-9, a great place to let your dog get some exercise. 

Kamp K-9 gives your best friend a great vacation too! 

The campground has activities for all, with lots of children's activities for a fun trip.  During prime season enjoy the heated pool with splash pad.  There is also 2 jump pillows for some high flying laughs.  Or maybe you would prefer some horse shoes, or a game of volleyball during your visit.  The staff seems to always have something going on to add to the fun.  Throughout the season you can expect a chance to tie-dye shirts, participate in parades, watch an expert chainsaw carver, enjoy ice cream socials and so much more. 

Fall camping is so relaxing. 

The campground obviously has a lot going for it, but why choose to camp here compared to so many other campgrounds in the area.  The answer is fairly simple, the  culture of KOA's around America is reflected in the kind nature of the owners and staff.  Each year funds are raised for KOA Care Camps, which send children with cancer to camps to help make a difference in their lives.  The campground also takes the time to recognize law enforcement, firemen, active military and veterans each year.  During my visit, I dropped off a new toy for their annual Toys for Tots campaign.  Having spent so much time with Donna, Gary, Ted and Wayne at various shows throughout the year, I can tell you first hand they are going to make your stay as enjoyable as possible with care to detail. 

A Fun Ride through KOA!

There's still time to get some late season camping, or a cabin stay at Williamsburg KOA Campground as they are open until December 15th.  It could be a great time to get your early Christmas shopping done at the Pottery Factory or Williamsburg Prime Outlets.  You can also visit Busch Gardens'  annual Christmas Town with over 6 million lights.  This is also a great time to start thinking about your vacation for 2014 and make a reservation.  The campground will open on March 1, so don't hesitate; Go visit my friends and tell them Tom sent you!