Cheatham Annex MWR Campground

Cheatham Annex MWR Campground, often referred to as part of the Navy Getaways network, is a premier recreational destination tucked away on the banks of the York River in Williamsburg, Virginia. As a Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) facility, it serves as a dedicated retreat for active-duty service members, reservists, military retirees, and DoD civilians. This campground is widely recognized by the local military community for its serene, wooded environment and its strategic position within the "Historic Triangle" of Virginia, making it an ideal home base for exploring the rich heritage of the region.

The atmosphere at Cheatham Annex is one of quietude and natural beauty. Unlike many commercial campgrounds that can feel crowded or hectic, this annex of the Naval Weapons Station Yorktown offers a more "deserted" and peaceful feel, even during peak travel seasons. The grounds are meticulously maintained, featuring mature hardwood forests and stunning waterfront views. For families stationed in Hampton Roads or those traveling through the Virginia Peninsula, it provides a safe, secure, and affordable way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing proximity to world-class attractions.

Location and Accessibility are standout features of this campground. Located at 100 B Street in Williamsburg, the park is situated directly adjacent to the Colonial Parkway. This scenic roadway provides a direct, stoplight-free route to historic Yorktown and Colonial Williamsburg, both of which are just a short drive away. For those arriving from out of town, the campground is easily accessible via I-64, taking exit 242 onto SR-199 and following the signs toward the base gate.

As this is a military installation, visitors should be aware of specific access requirements. All guests must enter through a secure gate, and valid military or DoD identification is required. For sponsored guests without ID, prior coordination with the base Pass and ID office is necessary. Once on base, the internal roads are paved and easy to navigate, even for large RV rigs. On-site parking is plentiful, and the campground features concrete pads that provide a level surface for easy setup.

Services Offered at Cheatham Annex MWR Campground are designed to cater to a variety of camping styles, from those who prefer the ruggedness of a tent to those traveling in luxury motorhomes. The facility operates year-round, ensuring that Virginia’s beautiful fall and spring seasons can be enjoyed to the fullest.

• Full-hookup RV sites equipped with 30 and 50-amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections.
• Modern vacation rentals, including one-bedroom "honeymoon" suites and larger two, three, and five-bedroom cottages or townhomes.
• Primitive tent camping sites located near Jones Mill Pond for a more traditional outdoor experience.
• Comprehensive bathhouse facilities featuring hot showers and restrooms (accessible for all guests).
• Coin-operated laundry facilities with industrial-grade washers and dryers for long-term stays.
• On-site dump station for RV residents and a small Navy Exchange (NEX) Mini-Mart nearby for fuel, ice, and basic groceries.
• Convenient payment options including major credit cards and debit cards for all site fees and rentals.
• Discount ticket services available through the MWR office for local attractions like Busch Gardens and Water Country USA.

Features and Highlights of the campground extend far beyond just a place to sleep. The recreational opportunities on-base are vast, often rivaling private resorts. Whether you are an angler, a hiker, or a family with young children, there is something specifically tailored to your interests.

• Extensive recreational infrastructure, including an 18-hole golf course and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool.
• Miles of wooded hiking and biking trails that wind through the wetlands and along the York River shoreline.
• Freshwater fishing opportunities on two on-site lakes, plus saltwater fishing from the supply pier on the York River.
• Outdoor equipment rentals, including jon boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the scenic waterways.
• Kid-friendly amenities like a central playground and open fields for sports and activities.
• Picnic tables and fire rings at every site, with wood often available for purchase at the local Country Store.
• Frequent wildlife sightings, with residents often spotting bald eagles, ospreys, deer, and wild turkeys roaming the grounds.
• Proximity to the 4th Street Grille, which provides a convenient on-base option for breakfast and lunch.

Contact Information for the campground is vital for making reservations, which are highly recommended given the park's popularity. The MWR staff manages bookings and can provide the most up-to-date information on site availability and current base access policies.

Address: 100 B St, Williamsburg, VA 23185, USA

Phone: (757) 887-7418

Mobile Phone: +1 757-887-7418

Front Desk Location: Building 236 on 4th Street (Office hours vary by season, typically opening at 8:00 AM).

What is worth choosing when it comes to Cheatham Annex is the combination of security, value, and location. For eligible military members, this campground offers a level of safety and peace of mind that is hard to find elsewhere. The presence of Navy Security and the gated entry ensure a quiet environment where families can let their children play without the worries associated with more public venues. Furthermore, the pricing is significantly lower than comparable private RV resorts in the Williamsburg area, allowing families to stretch their vacation budgets further.

The campground is also worth choosing for its sheer versatility. If you have family members who aren't quite ready for an RV or tent, the high-quality cottages and townhomes allow everyone to stay together in the same community. While users have occasionally noted that cell service and Wi-Fi can be spotty—and the water pressure may vary—most agree that the "hidden gem" nature of the park more than compensates for these minor technical hurdles. If you are looking for a place where you can wake up to the sound of "Colors" being played in the distance and spend your afternoon kayaking on a quiet river, Cheatham Annex MWR Campground is an exceptional choice in the heart of historic Virginia.

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