Tom's Cove Park

For generations of Virginia families, Tom's Cove Park has served as a quintessential summer destination, offering a front-row seat to the natural majesty of Chincoteague Island. Established in 1965, this family-owned and operated campground spans a prime location along the Assateague Channel, providing a rustic yet vibrant atmosphere for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned RVer or a first-time tent camper, the park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the coastal heritage of the Eastern Shore. The campground is best known for its deep connection to the local tradition of the Chincoteague wild ponies, offering a vantage point where guests can occasionally witness these iconic animals grazing across the water on Assateague Island.

The vibe at Tom's Cove Park is decidedly relaxed and community-focused. On any given morning, the air is filled with the scent of salt marsh and the sounds of a busy marina as anglers prepare for a day on the bay. It is a place where "good morning" is a standard greeting among neighbors, and the evenings are characterized by the warm glow of campfires and the shared stories of a day spent exploring the nearby wildlife refuge. While it is a large and popular facility that can become quite bustling during peak events like the annual Pony Swim, it maintains a nostalgic charm that keeps families returning decade after decade.

Location and accessibility are two of the park's most significant draws. Situated at 8128 Beebe Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, the park is just a few minutes' drive from the entrance of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the pristine beaches of Assateague Island National Seashore. For those arriving from the mainland, the drive across the scenic Virginia Eastern Shore leads directly into the heart of Chincoteague, where the park sits overlooking the Assateague Lighthouse. The campground has made strides to ensure that its coastal beauty is accessible to all, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, a dedicated parking lot, and accessible restroom facilities. Its layout allows for easy movement, whether you are heading to the docks for a morning of crabbing or walking to the on-site country store for supplies.

Tom's Cove Park is a full-service facility designed to cater to the needs of modern campers while preserving the traditional camping experience. The site options are diverse, ranging from secluded wooded areas for tent camping to premium waterfront RV sites that can accommodate large motor coaches up to 45 feet. The park is well-equipped with onsite services that allow guests to stay for an extended weekend or an entire season without needing to leave the grounds for essentials.

• RV camping sites with full hookups, including 30 and 50 amp electric and water.
• Dedicated tent camping sites with access to electricity and water.
• Comprehensive onsite services including a laundromat and a well-stocked country store.
• A private marina and boat ramp for guests who wish to explore the Assateague Channel by water.
• High-speed Wi-Fi access available at the recreation facility for those needing to stay connected.
• Modern payment convenience, accepting debit cards and NFC mobile payments for camping fees and store purchases.
• On-site RV storage and service options for seasonal residents.
• Clean and maintained bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets.

The highlights of a stay at Tom's Cove Park often revolve around its unparalleled water access and family-oriented recreation. For those who love the water, the three private fishing and crabbing piers are the heart of the activity. Children can spend their days at the playground or in the large indoor recreation facility, which features video games and pool tables. During the height of the summer, the large 30 by 60-foot swimming pool serves as a refreshing oasis for guests of all ages. The park also serves as a cultural hub for the island, frequently hosting major community events such as the Chincoteague Seafood Festival and the Annual Chincoteague Island Oyster Festival.

• Three extensive fishing and crabbing piers directly on the Assateague Channel.
• A seasonal outdoor swimming pool with a large sun deck for lounging.
• A spacious clubhouse and recreation hall featuring live entertainment on selected weekends.
• A dedicated playground that is highly rated as "good for kids."
• An on-site dog park and pet-friendly policies that welcome your four-legged companions.
• Excellent picnic areas throughout the park for outdoor family meals.
• Breathtaking views of the Assateague Lighthouse and the wild pony grazing grounds.
• Close proximity to the NASA Wallops Flight Facility visitor center and local museums.

Planning a trip to this Chincoteague landmark is straightforward, though reservations are highly recommended during the summer months and are essential for the week of the Pony Swim in July. You can reach the park office via the following contact information:

Address: 8128 Beebe Rd, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA

Phone: (757) 336-6498

What is worth choosing about Tom's Cove Park is the sheer authenticity of the experience. While there are many places to stay on the Eastern Shore, few offer the direct waterfront access and the deep-rooted island tradition found here. It is worth choosing for the angler who wants to be on the water at sunrise, the family who wants a safe and active environment for their children, and the nature lover who wants to be "just a stone's throw" from one of the most beautiful wildlife refuges in the country. The ability to park your RV right on the channel and watch the world go by is a luxury that defines the Chincoteague lifestyle.

Furthermore, the park’s commitment to providing a community atmosphere makes it a standout choice. From the helpful neighbors who offer equipment adapters to the staff who facilitate boat launches and crabbing tips, the human element of Tom's Cove Park adds immense value to your stay. It is an affordable, fun, and scenic base camp that allows you to explore everything from the wild beaches of Assateague to the quirky shops and seafood restaurants of downtown Chincoteague. For those looking for a true Virginia coastal escape that balances activity with peaceful contentment, Tom's Cove Park remains a premier choice on the map.