First Landing State Park Campground

First Landing State Park Campground stands as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of coastal beauty and American history. As Virginia's most-visited state park, it offers a rare opportunity to camp where English colonists first made landfall in 1607. This sprawling 2,888-acre park is nestled on Cape Henry in North Virginia Beach, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling oceanfront boardwalk while remaining just minutes away from urban conveniences. The campground itself is situated on the Chesapeake Bay side of the park, offering direct access to 1.5 miles of sandy shoreline and calm waters that are perfect for a variety of recreational activities.

Whether you are a local Virginia resident looking for a weekend getaway or a traveler exploring the East Coast, the park offers a diverse landscape that includes bald cypress swamps, maritime forests, and dunes. The professional staff at the visitor center are known for their warm welcome, providing comprehensive overviews of park rules and the many accommodations available. From tent sites nestled in the woods to spacious RV lots with modern amenities, the campground is designed to provide a scenic and pleasant experience for all types of campers. The transition from the dense, Spanish moss-draped forest to the open, salty air of the bay is a signature experience that keeps visitors returning season after season.

The location and accessibility of First Landing State Park Campground are among its strongest assets. Located along US-60 (Shore Drive), the park is easily accessible from any part of the Hampton Roads region. For those traveling from outside the area, it is a straightforward drive from I-64, making it a convenient stop for RV travelers. The park entrance is designed to be inclusive, featuring a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a paved parking lot. Accessibility remains a priority throughout the grounds, with wheelchair-accessible restrooms and designated paths that ensure everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Once inside, the campground is divided by Shore Drive, with the camping and beach areas on the bay side and the extensive trail system on the forest side. This layout allows for distinct experiences: quiet mornings on the beach and active afternoons exploring the inland ecosystems. The campground offers on-site parking for both day-use visitors and overnight guests. Residents of Virginia often take advantage of the park's proximity to local attractions like the Cape Henry Lighthouse and the various military installations, though visitors should note that the park's popularity means parking lots can reach capacity early on weekends and holidays.

The services offered at First Landing State Park Campground are comprehensive, catering to both rugged tent campers and those who prefer the comforts of a modern RV. The park provides onsite services that make long-term stays comfortable and convenient for families and solo adventurers alike. Key services include:

• Full RV camping support with designated electric and water hookups (20, 30, and 50-amp service available).
• Over 200 campsites ranging from primitive tent sites to large back-in sites for trailers up to 50 feet.
• Modern bathhouses equipped with public restrooms and public showers that are well-maintained and feature running water.
• Waste disposal and recycling stations strategically located throughout the campground loops.
• A camp store (Bay Store) that sells essential supplies, including firewood, ice, and snacks during the peak season.
• Educational and interpretive programs led by park rangers, focusing on the unique biodiversity and history of Cape Henry.

The features and highlights of this campground extend beyond the basics, offering a rich array of amenities that enhance the outdoor experience. From family-friendly recreation to specialized facilities for pet owners, the park is designed to be a complete vacation destination. Highlights include:

• Direct access to the Chesapeake Bay beach, featuring calm surf that is ideal for swimming and wading.
• A vast network of 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the handicapped-accessible Bald Cypress Trail and the 6-mile Cape Henry Trail.
• Designated picnic areas equipped with picnic tables and barbecue grills for family gatherings and outdoor meals.
• A universally accessible playground and swings for children, making it a top choice for families with young kids.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs in the campground and on the beach (on-leash), ensuring your furry companions can join the trip.
• On-site boat launch at "The Narrows," providing access to Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay for fishing, crabbing, and kayaking.
• Historical landmarks within walking distance, including the site of the first landing of the Virginia Company.

For more information or to make a reservation, you can contact the park office or the central reservation line for Virginia State Parks. It is highly recommended to book well in advance for summer weekends, as this is one of the most sought-after camping spots in the state.

Address: US-60, Virginia Beach, VA 23459, USA

Phone: (800) 933-7275

Mobile Phone: +1 800-933-7275

What makes First Landing State Park Campground worth choosing is the unparalleled variety of environments it offers within a single location. It is rare to find a place where you can hike through a prehistoric-looking cypress swamp in the morning and relax on a pristine beach by the afternoon. For families, the "kid-friendly" nature of the park is a major draw; the calm bay water is much safer for small children than the rougher Atlantic Ocean surf found just a few miles south. The addition of clean, modern bathhouses with "real toilets" and hot showers provides a level of comfort that makes the camping experience accessible even to those who are new to the outdoors.

Furthermore, the park’s commitment to accessibility and its welcoming staff ensure that all visitors, regardless of mobility or experience level, can have a successful stay. While its proximity to the highway and local military bases means you might hear the occasional sound of traffic or morning reveille, most campers find this a small price to pay for the convenience of staying in a "scenic and spacious" campsite right on the water. For anyone seeking the quintessential Virginia Beach outdoor experience—complete with history, nature, and relaxation—First Landing State Park Campground is undoubtedly the top choice in the region. Whether you are there for the "rainbow swamps" in the fall or the sun-drenched beach in the summer, it offers a factual and high-quality escape that represents the best of Virginia’s natural heritage.