Norfolk's coastal location on the Chesapeake Bay provides campers with unique opportunities to experience both freshwater and saltwater environments within a short drive. The area maintains moderate temperatures through much of the year, with camping season extending from early spring through late fall. Summer humidity peaks in July and August when temperatures average 87°F, while spring and fall offer more comfortable camping conditions.
What to do
Beach access with privacy: First Landing State Park Campground offers beach areas that remain relatively uncrowded compared to the main Virginia Beach oceanfront. "Short drive to Virginia Beach areas and beach access from the park. Highly recommend visiting!" notes Daniel F., who appreciates the park's location just 30 minutes from Norfolk proper.
Kayaking and paddleboats: Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides affordable boat rentals for exploring its lake. "Lots of hiking trails to walk & turtles in the lake!! Plus you can rent boats for a cheap price which we will probably go back to do," reports Gracie B., who visited with two dogs. The park includes 456 acres with multiple trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Fishing and crabbing: Sun Outdoors Cape Charles provides fishing piers with Chesapeake Bay access. "My boys love the jump pads, pools and paddle boats. As a family we enjoy the fishing piers, new beach and cafe," shares Beth F. The property includes equipment rentals for both fishing and crabbing activities.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers a unique setting surrounded by water on Fort Monroe. "This is a great location to the beach, just a short walk. The campground is great if you have a number of campers, you can hangout in the middle," explains Erin W. Sites are arranged around a central gathering area that works well for group camping.
Seasonal camping options: Virginia Beach KOA remains open year-round with significant price reductions during off-season. "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," reports Leo S., highlighting the value for budget-conscious campers.
Private wooded sites: Kiptopeke State Park Campground features tent sites nestled in wooded areas away from the more crowded RV sections. "The only reason I am giving 4 stars is for everyone. I thoroughly enjoyed my spot being in 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," notes Joseph H., who recommends the more secluded tent areas.
What you should know
Summer heat challenges: Tent camping during peak summer can be uncomfortable at some sites. "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," warns Grace M. from her First Landing State Park experience.
Military installation proximity: Some campgrounds sit near active military bases, creating unique sound conditions. "You may hear occasional machine guns and artillery. You will also hear reveille in the morning. It was not terribly bad," reports Nita D. about staying at First Landing State Park near Fort Story.
Noise levels vary: Holiday Trav-L-Park can experience high visitor volumes during peak season. "We have stayed here numerous times and have made many memories! The atmosphere is very laid back and the staff is very friendly and helpful. I gave four stars because in the last few times we've stayed its VERY crowded and I think it overwhelms the staff," shares John H., noting the pool areas can become particularly congested.
Tips for camping with families
Shoulder seasons best: Early fall camping provides better temperatures while maintaining access to activities. "We stayed during Memorial Day weekend last year and had a fantastic time! The only thing that I didn't like was lack of regulating sound ordnances late at night when people lap the campground in their golf carts blasting country music," mentions Ashley R. about Holiday Trav-L-Park.
Multiple pool options: Holiday Trav-L-Park offers several swimming areas spread throughout the property. "Best campground in the Va Beach area. 1 mile roughly to the ocean front but they have there own beach parking lot and provide you with a parking pass for use. Nice cozy stores. Several pools to choose from so you don't have to be packed in at one main pool with all the campground guests," explains Da'Paul F.
Budget-friendly tent options: Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides pet-friendly camping at minimal cost. "The sites were located about 1/4 mile from the parking lot down a trail. They were spaced nicely apart and had nice sand tent platforms with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grate. Overall when you consider the dirt cheap price of 10.60 per night, this campground delivers as advertised," notes Liz J.
Tips from RVers
Connection location matters: Little Creek MWR RV Park sites require extra planning for hookups. "Full hook up (electric/water/sewer) on sites; some have fire pits, some don't. Also 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," advises Eleanor the Airstream R.
Seasonal site selection: At First Landing State Park, shaded sites provide critical relief during summer months. "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," explains Adam and Suzanne B., who appreciate the mature trees that help moderate temperatures.
