Chesapeake camping areas sit where Virginia's coastal plains meet the Atlantic watershed, with most sites positioned between sea level and 20 feet elevation. The region experiences high summer humidity from May through September, with average July temperatures reaching 88°F. Winter camping remains possible with mild 50°F January days, though nights can drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: First Landing State Park Campground offers both freshwater and saltwater fishing with easy access to Chesapeake Bay. "There is easy access to the beach. Would definitely recommend to any family that wants to start camping or anyone who wants an easy camping experience," notes Xavier N.
Waterway exploration: North Landing Beach provides direct canal access to Back Bay for kayakers and small boats. "Kayaking is great. Lots of fishing. Ice cream and pizza place open in the evenings," shares Jason B., highlighting the combination of water activities and amenities.
Beach access: Virginia Beach KOA offers transportation to oceanfront areas during peak season. "They have transportation via Trolly bus that comes through frequently throughout the day to transport you to Various beach side activities where otherwise you would have to pay for parking," explains Marc W., making beach visits more convenient.
Hiking options: Multiple nature trails wind through False Cape State Park Campground with routes ranging from 1-9 miles. "There's tons of hiking, interesting things to see, beautiful nature. We saw dolphins playing in the ocean! The beach alive with crabs! Osprey catching fish!" Katie M. explains, noting the diverse wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Large private sites: First Landing State Park Campground receives consistent praise for spacious campsites. "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk," notes Adam and Suzanne B.
Beach proximity: North Bay Shore Campground offers convenient beach access without oceanfront crowds. "Wonderful spot away from crowds but close to beach. Tent, RV or tiny cabin options. Clean, quiet and pretty. Canal runs around campground that gives you access to Back Bay. 5 minute drive to Sandbridge," Caroline M. reports.
Multiple swimming options: Holiday Trav-L-Park maintains four swimming pools to prevent overcrowding. "The pools are nice and clean but can get crowded as expected. Very good campground though imo and we are going back in july," John H. mentions, highlighting the clean facilities despite peak season crowds.
Peaceful environment: North Landing Beach offers a quieter alternative to busier Virginia Beach campgrounds. "We stayed at North Landing Beach for a week during the 4th of July holiday and while it was very busy, it was quiet and very family oriented. The beach was quiet and relaxing with beautiful sunsets," writes Brandi I.
What you should know
Access limitations: False Cape State Park requires significant hiking or biking to reach sites. "From the parking lot to our campsite, it was about 7.5 miles. Some campsites are closer by a couple of miles. We're both in good shape, and on bike we made the trek in less than an hour," explains Tim R.
Weather impacts: Many Chesapeake area campgrounds experience flooding during heavy rains. "Several sites have good access to satellite system," notes Cliff M. about Chesapeake Campground, indicating higher elevation areas with better drainage for electronics.
Military proximity: Sites at First Landing near Fort Story may experience noise. "You will be very close to a US military base called Fort Story. You may hear occasional machine guns and artillery. You will also hear reveille in the morning," warns Nita D.
Limited off-season amenities: Davis Lakes Resort reduces services seasonally. "There are no amenities in the fall and winter but in the summer there is a lake with a swimming area and a snack bar. The fishing is year round," Leslie R. points out, noting that fishing remains available regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Northwest River Park provides family-friendly recreation beyond camping. "Plenty of things to do for the active camper. Put put golf, kayak, hiking and much more," Patricia L. mentions, highlighting diverse options for children.
Site selection: North Bay Shore Campground offers specific areas designated for families. "Tent sites are along a waterway to a boat ramp so in the morning boats will go by, otherwise very peaceful and quiet all night. There's a cool little pavilion close to the tent sites with picnic tables," Amy F. notes.
Beachfront alternatives: North Bayshore Campground provides water access without crowded oceanfront conditions. "The tent sites are along a waterway to a boat ramp so in the morning boats will go by, otherwise very peaceful and quiet all night. There's a cool little pavilion close to the tent sites with picnic tables," Amy F. explains.
Evening entertainment: Sandy Point Resort Campground offers sunset views over the water. "We had a beautiful view from the back of my Mini-Van camper. Nice and windy! Kept the bugs away for sure," John R. shares, noting how the breeze helps reduce insects during evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Site specifics: Northwest River Park offers varied RV site configurations. "Plenty of room..showers/bathrooms huge..water NOT at all sites but easy to fill tanks. Some sites close to main road but not a lot of traffic," Gary D. notes, highlighting the importance of checking water hookup availability.
Noise considerations: Holiday Trav-L-Park may experience aircraft noise from nearby military installations. "Not a bad campground, nice area. LOTS of overhead noise from jets (you do get use to it)," Ashley I. mentions, suggesting site selection away from flight paths when possible.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Chesapeake include options with specific pet amenities. Davis Lakes maintains designated pet areas within the campground, though with specific restrictions. "Pretty site and well maintained. But really not dog friendly….no dogs allowed signs posted all over and no where to really walk or hike due to private camping areas/roads," mruis mentions.
Off-season availability: Pet-friendly accommodations often have greater availability during winter months. "Prices come way down during the off season. Much of the facilities are closed but they keep open one of their bathhouses. Otherwise it's a peaceful stay in the winter months," Leo S. notes about Virginia Beach KOA.
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