First Landing State Park Campground is the closest established camping option to Greenwood, Virginia, with direct access to Chesapeake Bay shoreline. The campground offers a mix of wooded sites and beachfront areas, with varying levels of privacy depending on site selection. Summer humidity can make tent camping challenging, while spring and fall provide more comfortable conditions for outdoor activities.
What to do
Beach activities and water access: At First Landing State Park Campground, campers have quick access to both bay and beach areas. "Always good, to camp first landing... long boardwalk, peaceful beach and calm water," notes Wilfredo D. The park provides multiple water access points with varied environments.
Military history exploration: The nearby Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park offers access to historic lighthouses where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic. "This campground is located at the Fort Story Navy Base, set in a wooded area not far from a nice beach right at the corner of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic. Two historic lighthouse mark the spot!" explains Janet R.
Fishing and wildlife viewing: Kiptopeke State Park Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities from their pier. "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin," shares Annemarie R., who adds a practical warning: "By the way, a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it and I did learn they have sharp spines on their gill plates and dorsal fins."
What campers like
Privacy and natural setting: Many campers appreciate the wooded sites at First Landing State Park. Adam and Suzanne B. note, "Excellent. Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room." This provides a natural setting despite proximity to urban areas.
Water on multiple sides: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers a unique peninsula setting. "This place was relaxing and peaceful. It's located on a peninsula with beautiful bay and creek views. You can enjoy both the sunrise and sunset," describes Jaime W. The observation deck enhances this water-centric experience.
Multiple swimming options: Several campgrounds provide swimming facilities beyond beach access. Da'Paul F. comments on Holiday Trav-L-Park: "Several pools to choose from so you don't have to be packed in at one main pool with all the campground guests. Wooded with nice sized sites and plenty of wildlife."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer heat can significantly impact tent camping comfort. Grace M. shares about First Landing: "I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and i both got sick." Shoulder seasons offer more moderate temperatures.
Site flooding potential: Low-lying coastal areas can experience water issues during storms. A camper at Chesapeake Campground reports: "A storm hit right after I got here and now I'm sitting in about 8 inches of water!" Always check weather forecasts before booking.
Military proximity effects: Virginia Beach KOA and other sites near military installations may experience noise impacts. Shawn M. notes about the Fort Story location: "Clean and spacious...quiet until reveille." Expect aircraft noise and occasional military activities at certain campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Multi-activity campgrounds: Northwest River Park Campground offers diverse recreation options beyond swimming. "Plenty of things to do for the active camper. Put put golf, kayak, hiking and much more," shares Patricia L. This variety helps keep children engaged throughout extended stays.
Beach alternatives: When oceanfront beaches become crowded, campground pools provide valuable alternatives. Kelly M. reports that Virginia Beach KOA "offers seasonal/holiday family activities, host concerts and have many outdoor games to keep different ages involved."
Quieter beach options: For families seeking less crowded beach experiences, The Colonies offers more secluded options. Nita D. mentions about First Landing: "As we went there when not many people were venturing out, I personally found that this campground was quite private and it was simple to social distance."
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Some locations have limited digital connectivity. Leo S. notes about Fort Story: "Cellular signal and Starlink won't work well here and the campground WiFi isn't great. But in the true spirit of camping, this is a great place to disconnect."
Hookup placement: At military campgrounds, utility connection placement may require extra equipment. Eleanor the Airstream notes: "the connection boxes are set back pretty far on the sites, so you need longer hoses/cords. We had a long electric cord that reached and had to add a second water hose and second section of sewer hose to connect."
Off-season advantages: Price-conscious RVers can find significant savings during shoulder seasons. Leo S. shares: "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."
Guide
