Norfolk area campgrounds provide access to both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean coastlines. Most campgrounds stay open year-round with summer high temperatures averaging 87°F and winter lows rarely dropping below freezing. Tent camping opportunities are limited compared to RV sites, with military installations operating several campgrounds requiring Department of Defense identification for entry.
What to do
Explore beach access: At The Colonies RV and Travel Park, beach access is just a short walk from camp. "The stairs are broken down to the beach, so you have to climb over the rail. The campground is great if you have a number of campers, you can hangout in the middle," notes one visitor.
Visit historic sites: Fort Monroe National Monument surrounds The Colonies RV Park with military history dating back to the 1800s. "Located on the historic Fort Monroe, VA the fort has a lot to offer. No reason to leave but if you do there's plenty in surrounding areas," according to one reviewer.
Go fishing: Several campgrounds offer fishing opportunities on base. At Military Park Cheatham Annex, campers can fish in "two lakes and the York River along with an 18 hole golf course." The park has "more than 10 miles of hiking and biking trails" for additional recreation.
What campers like
Beach proximity: Access to shorelines ranks high among camper preferences. One reviewer described Sea Mist RV Campground as having "direct access to an incredible extensive strand of premier beach right on the ocean, with the protection of a natural sand dune barrier."
Military recreation facilities: Military campgrounds offer extensive recreation equipment rentals. At Dam Neck Annex, "the base MWR has extensive recreational equipment rentals, and you would have access to other typical base amenities."
Water views: The Colonies campers enjoy panoramic water views. "One of the most scenic and peaceful campgrounds in the state of Virginia, you are right by the water (it's almost like an island), 2 minutes walking distance from a secluded beach," shares one reviewer about the Fort Monroe location.
What you should know
Military ID requirements: Multiple rv sites near Norfolk, Virginia require military identification for access. At Little Creek MWR RV Park, "This campground is a recreational opportunity for active and retired military and their families" with one camper noting it's "on post, so ID required."
Reservation requirements: Advance booking is essential for all campgrounds in the region. At American Heritage RV Park, "reservations are recommended and available online."
Limited tent camping: Sea Mist RV Campground specifically prohibits tent camping. "We weren't able to stay here because on arrival we found out that not only do they not have designated tent sites, but that tenters aren't even allowed!"
WiFi limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly by location. At Virginia Beach RV Resort, "The WiFi didn't seem to exist unless you were close to their buildings. Everyone was friendly and was a nice quiet getaway to let the kids ride bikes and fish."
Tips for camping with families
Pool activities: Several rv sites near Norfolk offer swimming pools. At American Heritage RV Park, families enjoy "Lots to do-pickleball, playground, volleyball mini golf, two nature trails and a nice-sized pool."
Playground access: Most family-oriented campgrounds maintain playground equipment. Virginia Beach RV Resort has a playground that one visitor described as "basic, but a playground non the less. Pools were nice and never really crowded."
Kid-friendly beaches: At Grey's Point Camp, "There are so many activities for kids at this campground. There are waters slides, playgrounds, fishing, water rentals, and campground sponsored fun." These amenities make it particularly suitable for families with children of various ages.
Tips from RVers
Site sizes: RV site dimensions vary widely between campgrounds. At Grey's Point Camp, "The sites are spacious and always clean when we arrive. The new bath house is excellent. The views of the 'Rivah' are phenomenal."
Hookup locations: At Little Creek, hookup connections require planning. "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."
Pad types: Most rv sites near Norfolk feature concrete pads. American Heritage RV Park provides "a leveled concrete site with room to park our towed vehicle while still attached to our Motor Home. We also had a level concrete patio with a picnic table."
