Kiptopeke State Park Campground hosts camping options on Virginia's Eastern Shore approximately 10 miles south of Cape Charles. The campground sits at sea level with direct Chesapeake Bay access. Sites experience steady bay breezes throughout summer months, with temperatures typically ranging from 75-85°F between May and September.
What to do
Shoreline exploration: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can walk wooden boardwalks leading to beaches where collecting seashells is popular. "This park is a nice place to bring your family to camp, fish, crab and relax by the beach and collect seashells. It has 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not," notes Annemarie R.
Kayaking barrier islands: The area serves as a launching point for paddlers exploring the Atlantic coastline. "I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," shares Stuart M., who rates the park highly.
Fishing unique species: Cast lines at fishing piers for unusual catches. "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin. By the way, a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it," warns Annemarie R.
What campers like
Pet-friendly beaches: Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA offers designated swimming areas for dogs. "Very pet friendly and they also made a beach side for pets to swim at. Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc," shares Gabby B.
Waterfront dining: On-site restaurants with bay views enhance glamping close to Cape Charles, Virginia. "We arrived on a Sunday (went to dinner at the onsite restaurant on the bay). Because it was after school started and the start of the week, the campground was not crowded at all," notes Stu T.
Sunset views: Camping spots facing west provide spectacular evening skies. "We had a great spot looking at a cul-de-sac. But driving back to my spot I noticed all the A and B spots for trailers are just on top of each other. But overall a good camping spot if you get back in the woods which are all the tent spots," advises Joseph H.
What you should know
Site selection matters: At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles, formerly Cherrystone Family Camping Resort, strategic site choices improve your experience. "Older campground, lots of sites. No real place to swim on the bay, but they do have a pool. Beautiful area," mentions Ashley I.
Seasonal crowds: Peak season brings fuller campgrounds. "The weekends are very loud as the partiers come out and during the week it's quiet great place to camp. But I will say that the campground is great at keeping the peace and keeps the quiet hrs," explains Tara M.
Facilities condition: Bathhouses may require updates at some properties. "Only negative here is that some of the facilities (bath houses and such) are hurting and need updating," reports Carrie A.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple activity options: Thousand Trails Virginia Landing provides various recreation opportunities. "The campground provided opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities that kept our kids entertained throughout our three night stay. The park is wide-open, which provided plenty of space for kids to roam and explore," shares Jason G.
Water sports rentals: Equipment is available on-site at most glamping resorts near Cape Charles, Virginia. "We have a blast every time we come here. There is plenty to do. Pool, beach, fishing, boat rentals, golf, paddle boats, bike rentals, and crabbing," explains Melissa P.
Organized activities: Scheduled programming keeps children engaged. "This is a great campground. It has plenty to do. It has 5 swimming pools, very clean and well maintained. It has mini golf and paddleboats. It has a great kids program with lots of activities," notes Susan P.
Tips from RVers
Site features: Holiday Trav-L-Park offers different site levels and amenities. "This is a HUGE complex with various 'levels' of sites. From basic to fancy, crowded to sparse. I think we would've felt a little claustrophobic if it were the summer, but this was great for us in the off season," shares Amanda P.
Hookup specifics: Full hookups are available in designated loops. "This is a great campground. Well maintained, nice and quiet. C loop has full hookup where A and B do not. Plenty to do, hiking, fishing, birding. Camp store is nice, the staff for the park are great. Try and get C loop spots 15-21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop," recommends Aaron S.
Navigation considerations: Loop roads may need maintenance at some properties. "The site was half gravel and half grass. The grading wasn't great and the gravel was thin. Lots of water puddles and the grass was swampy. The roads around the campground could use repair," warns Rebecca E.
Ranger
