The Virginia Eastern Shore offers primitive to full-service tent camping options near Cheriton, with sites nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Chesapeake Bay. This coastal peninsula features a mix of maritime forest, salt marsh, and beach environments with elevations rarely exceeding 50 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures average 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions with fewer insects.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: False Cape State Park Campground provides exceptional opportunities to observe coastal wildlife. "I've hit some pretty remote places, but this one was different because it was on the beach but still out in the middle of nowhere... Plus there are a ton of different types of birds out there if you like wildlife. My cousin even caught a few baby sharks," reports camper Sam M.
Kayaking and boating: The protected waterways near Cheriton are perfect for paddlers of all skill levels. "To kayak here it's the bomb!" notes Susan P. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park, which offers boat rentals and calm waters for novice paddlers.
History exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to historical structures. At False Cape State Park, one camper recommends: "We saw an old graveyard and church steeple at Wash Woods, that's definitely worth the hike. We walked to the North Carolina border. There's a Loveworks and a buoy that marks the southernmost Virginia State Park."
What campers like
Beach seclusion: The best tent camping near Cheriton, Virginia includes oceanfront sites where privacy is valued. "Really there wasn't hardly anyone else out there, so it felt like we had our own private beach. If you want to be on the beach by yourself, just walk less than a mile down either way and there is not a soul," notes Tim R. about his experience at False Cape.
Natural immersion: Wisteria Beach Hideaway offers a nature-focused experience with minimal development. "Loved the location - the beaches were surrounded by pine, wetlands, and tall grasses - it felt remote and not overdeveloped!" explains Kat H., who appreciated the natural setting.
Convenient amenities: Some campsites balance wilderness with practical comforts. "The provided insect screen kept us well protected in mid-Sept. The hosts had extra supplies tucked under the table which is always a nice touch. There was a swinging grill grate on the firepit, which was great for camp pizzas!" reports a visitor to Wisteria Beach Hideaway.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some of the most rewarding camping near Cheriton requires significant effort to reach. "This park is 5+ miles from the Little Island Park Parking lot, where you have to park if you're staying overnight. So, you have to hike, bike or boat into the primitive campground," explains Katie M. about False Cape State Park Campground.
Insect preparation: Biting insects are prevalent throughout the camping season. "We went in mid-June and the weather was gorgeous - 80s during the day and 60s at night. There were some biting flies and mosquitos but nothing a little bug spray couldn't take care of. We did see many, many ticks," reports Stephanie J.
Water management: Potable water access varies significantly between sites. Jesse S. advises: "Bring plenty of water for hike in during summer, hardly any shade hiking in. Campgrounds are clean, fair amount of bugs so bring spray, multiple drinking water locations around Barbour Hill Bay and Ocean Side."
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping with kids: Children often enjoy camping directly on the beach when conditions permit. "We brought our 9 month old and 2 year old children. We towed them in a trailer and they loved their time at the beach," says Tim R. about False Cape State Park.
Pet restrictions: Some areas have limitations on bringing dogs. "Pets are allowed, but they are not allowed through Back Bay. You either have to bring them in via boat, or coming up south from North Carolina," explains a False Cape camper.
Family-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with diverse recreation options. "This campsite and park is a ton of fun. There are miles of trails around the lake and through the woods you can follow. It is extremely dog friendly with a fenced in dog park as well. There are kayaks and paddle boats you can rent by the hour," writes Brandon W. about Sandy Bottom Nature Park.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV access: RV camping options near Cheriton are limited, with most natural sites being tent-only. Carter's Cove Campground offers some RV sites, though visitor N I. notes it's "More of a long term stay but there are a few spots for RV's... Sites are level with some spacing."
Electric service considerations: Check electricity availability before arrival. Carter's Cove provides "30-50 amp" hookups for RVs requiring power, which is uncommon among the region's more primitive camping options.
