Camping sites near Onancock, Virginia offer visitors access to both protected wetlands and coastal environments, with elevations generally below 50 feet above sea level. This low-lying Eastern Shore region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures reaching 87°F and mild winters rarely dropping below freezing. During summer months, the combination of high humidity and standing water creates ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes at most campgrounds.
What to do
Kayaking on water trails: At Janes Island State Park Campground, located about 40 minutes from Onancock, paddlers can explore well-marked water routes. "The water trails have a big variety from large channels to narrow marsh routes and bird watching is excellent. There's a beach that's an easy 1-mile paddle away with lots of room to spread out and have a private space to yourself," notes Sean F. after visiting.
Crabbing and fishing: The shallow waters around many campsites provide excellent opportunities for crabbing, particularly for blue crabs during summer months. "You can go crabbing for blue crabs. We would definitely recommend staying here," mentions Carrie N. about her experience at Janes Island State Park.
Wildlife viewing: The protected wetlands support diverse bird populations and other wildlife. "The hike trails are so beautiful and being by the water was a complete experience! I got to see the sunset for the first time in a long time," reports Renee P. about the trails at Janes Island.
Beach exploration: Access both bay and ocean beaches depending on your campground location. At Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday, a camper mentioned, "There is a beach area to swim but also 2 pools. The original pool from when this was Tall Pines Harbor is a traditional rectangle. The new one is larger and also has a large splash pad."
What campers like
Campground amenities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained facilities. "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful," shared Kristen D. about Janes Island State Park, adding that "the kayaking alone is worth the trip."
Water access options: Campers enjoy having multiple water environments to choose from. At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles, formerly Cherrystone Family Camping Resort, visitors appreciate the waterfront access. "The campground provided opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities that kept our kids entertained throughout our three night stay. The park is wide-open, which provided plenty of space for kids to roam and explore," reports Jason G.
Less crowded alternatives: Many campers prefer the quieter campgrounds away from main tourist areas. A visitor to Thousand Trails Virginia Landing noted, "This campground seems a bit out of the way, but it's in a great location if you want to get away from the more crowded parks nearby. The staff was extremely helpful and everything was clean."
Wildlife encounters: Opportunities to see animals in their natural habitat draw many visitors. "We took a ride over to the ocean camp sites and found some horses! Worth a stop just for the simplicity of it all!" comments Deanna G. about her stay at Bayside Assateague Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds in the area operate on limited schedules. "Our first trip here and we loved it! We stayed in water view site 10. WV sites 1-7 have great views and some shade. WV sites 8-20 are more open and close together," reports Laure D. about Tall Pines Harbor, where many seasonal considerations affect site selection.
Campground layout variations: Site privacy and spacing vary significantly between campgrounds. At Pocomoke River State Park Campground, "Loop G - Acorn trail is for campers with pets. The camp sites are in the outer loop of the circular road with lots of space between each site. Lots of shade. There are several paths (like spokes on a wheel) that lead to the bathrooms which are in the middle of the loop," explains Jan K.
Insect preparation: Biting insects can be problematic, especially during warm months. "I was beyond disappointed and cancelled my upcoming trip for the following month as soon as I got home. I don't know if the experience was different Oceanside, but I will never be staying Bayside again," shared Wendy W. about her bug-infested experience at Bayside Assateague Campground.
Water conditions: Tidal patterns affect water activities throughout the day. "The scenery is amazing, especially at dusk and dawn," notes Robert P. about Virginia Landing, where waterfront activities are best planned around tidal schedules.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island (formerly Chincoteague Island KOA) offers numerous child-friendly amenities. "Lots to do including pools, water park lots of trails to hike or bike," according to Barbara B., making it ideal for families seeking organized recreation.
Site selection for kids: When camping with children, choosing the right campsite makes a big difference. "We stayed in water view 13 and it was a the perfect site. A little far for the kiddo to be at the park but the view was great," shares William C. about Tall Pines Harbor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Young campers often enjoy animal encounters. "My kids loved catching tiny crabs in the mud every night," reports Angelica K. about her stay at Virginia Landing.
Off-site excursions: Using campgrounds as a base for regional exploration works well for families. "We I tent camped here for two nights as part of our trip to Assateague. The group campsite was huge, complete with plenty of picnic tables, hammock hangs, a fire pit with benches around it," notes Sara G. about Pocomoke River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many Eastern Shore campgrounds have specific RV limitations. "We had a premium RV site and since we were here off season in late April- the campground was not super busy. Just expect that you will be in very close proximity of your neighbors," advises Travyl Couple about Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island.
Hookup availability: Full hookups are limited at some state parks. "Been here several times. 30 amp service available on Acorn Trail and Deer Run. No water or sewer hookups but there is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot," reports Jason B. about Pocomoke River State Park.
Size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," Jason B. adds about Pocomoke River State Park.
Seasonal considerations: Off-season camping offers more space but fewer amenities. "Their website is very informative. They have RVs for rent, cabins for rent, pull throughs and tent spaces. They are on the water and have a beach area as well as pools and very nice bath houses," shares Amy R. about Tom's Cove Park on Chincoteague Island.
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