The eastern shore of Virginia offers several pet friendly camping options near New Point, with sites nestled along the Chesapeake Bay shoreline. Most campgrounds in this area sit at sea level, with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and moderate humidity levels. Winter camping is limited as many facilities close from November through March.
What to do
Beach activities at Kiptopeke State Park: Located 20 miles south of New Point, the park features multiple beaches including a dedicated pet-friendly beach. "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.
Explore historic sites near Newport News Park: This 8,000-acre park contains Civil War sites and connects to numerous historical areas. "The park is a civil war historic site and is close to a lot of other historic places," writes Ray & Terri F., who appreciated the network of dog-friendly trails.
Water recreation at Chesapeake Bay: Fishing and crabbing are popular activities, especially during summer months. "We used 2 of them [wooden boardwalk trails] that were wheel chair accessible. I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin," reports a visitor to Kiptopeke State Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping views: Many campers appreciate the bay views and water access. At Cross Rip Camp, Greg reports, "Motorcycle tent camped. Great owners who made sure we had everything we needed. Beautiful views of sunset and sunrise. Great beach with Adirondack chairs. Bathhouse very clean. Water view from campsite."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Newer campgrounds like Machicomoco State Park Campground receive praise for their maintenance. "Machicomoco State Park is one of Virginia's brand-new parks in a great location on the York River! All the facilities are new and very clean. I love that the campground bathrooms are all unisex/family bathrooms and there are plenty of them," notes Katie M.
Dog-friendly environments: Campers with pets appreciate the welcoming atmosphere at many campgrounds. "This campground is family and dog friendly and close to Williamsburg tourist destinations. They even have a fantastic dog bath and holding kennel in case you have more than one dog," shares Bridget H. about Williamsburg Campground.
What you should know
Site selection impacts experience: Campground layout varies considerably between locations. At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles, Carrie A. advises: "I love Cherrystone. We go every September. Only negative here is that some of the facilities (bath houses and such) are hurting and need updating."
Weather considerations: Summer conditions affect camping comfort. "The campsites were ok. easy to get to. I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick. The beach was nice and quiet, and the water wasn't too cold," reports Grace M. about First Landing State Park.
Reservation timing: Most waterfront campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak season. "This is a great campground. Well run and kept clean. The beaches are beautiful. The pools are fun for all ages and clean. The staff are all very helpful. We will definitely camp there again," notes Julin S. about Sun Outdoors Cape Charles.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options for kids: Several campgrounds offer swimming pools as alternatives to bay swimming. "My boys love the jump pads, pools and paddle boats. As a family we enjoy the fishing piers, new beach and cafe. The camper spaces are perfect, not to close to your neighbor. We love this place!!" shares Beth F. about Sun Outdoors Cape Charles.
Planned activities enhance visits: Campgrounds like Williamsburg Campground offer structured entertainment. "They had big jumpy things for the kids, an outdoor movie theater and a nice playground. our dog enjoyed the dog park," Amy I. mentions about their family stay.
Beach accessibility varies: Some beaches require walks from camping areas. "The camp ground is beautiful and the people are friendly. Our game ground was surrounded by the forest but you're in walking distance to the beach," explains Timothy B. about First Landing State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness challenges: Many RVers note uneven sites throughout the region. At First Landing State Park Campground, Adam and Suzanne B. report: "Excellent. 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."
Hookup limitations: Water and electric hookups are common, but sewer connections are less available. "Fairly decent sized spots, some are hit or miss when it comes to bare dirt, grass, mossyness, leaf/pine covered grounds. Same with levelness of sites for rvs," notes a reviewer about Newport News Park.
Hose length considerations: Bring longer water hoses than standard. "We had a 32' class c rig and had no problems other than the auto leveling not working which caused us to move sites 3 times and our water hose was too short. You need at least a 25' hose," advises Tanya R. about Newport News Park.
