The Eastern Shore of Virginia offers unique camping experiences 30-40 miles east of Onancock. With an average elevation of 10-15 feet above sea level and a maritime climate, this coastal region experiences moderate temperatures year-round, making it ideal for yurt camping and outdoor activities. Campers at several parks near Onancock can expect daily water and salt marsh views with easy access to both Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean attractions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Janes Island State Park provides excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife observation. "We kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite. All these kayak trails are wonderful! Plenty to see, no bugs, no mosquitoes..some biting flies if you go into the lily pad areas," writes Cindy S. at Pocomoke River State Park.
Kayaking through water trails: The region offers extensive paddle routes through marshes and tidal waters. "Janes Island State Park has well-marked kayaking trails. Normally you can rent kayaks from the park, but since they were closed, we used Kayak Crisfield. Kayak Crisfield met us at the marina with all the paperwork and made it an easy alternative," notes Sean F. about Janes Island State Park.
Crabbing from docks and shorelines: Multiple campgrounds offer access to crabbing spots without equipment rentals. "We loved this campground. We were in site 317 with full hookups. We missed the shade a lot, but the evening breeze off the bay made up for it. The sunset over the old pier is breathtaking. I hope they rebuild the pier. My kids loved catching tiny crabs in the mud every night," shares Angelica K. from Thousand Trails Virginia Landing.
What campers like
Clean, updated bathhouses: Many campgrounds have invested in comfortable facilities. "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful. The campground was quiet and peaceful," reports Kristen D. from Janes Island.
Affordable alternatives to resort camping: Some sites offer substantial savings compared to premium locations. "We love it here. Come back year after year. Large sites. Staff bends over backwards (let us borrow a length of water hose when ours was too short by a couple feet). They make you feel like family. Great access to heart of Chincoteague and easily 30-50% cheaper than big name parks on island," explains Tim S. about Pine Grove Campground.
Seasonal yurt camping options: Yurt accommodations near Onancock provide a glamping experience with varying levels of amenities. At Chincoteague Bay Trails End Campground Resort, "Trails end has gate with campground I.D. or sticker access. There are bath houses, laundromat, country store, restaurant, meeting building with free wifi, pool park, boat ramp, and 2 docks, electric hook up (contact ANEC) water hook up," according to Jerry D.
What you should know
Insect considerations: The marshland environment can present challenges during peak summer months. "We were worried before arriving because other reviewers complained about the bugs. We were there mid July and the bugs weren't bad at all, a few mosquito bites, and the biting flies were kept at bay by cutter," notes Kristen D. from Janes Island State Park.
Seasonal operations: Many facilities have limited access during off-season months. "We have a blast every time we come here. The bathrooms are clean and updated. There is plenty to do. Pool, beach, fishing, boat rentals, golf, paddle boats, bike rentals, and crabbing. They also have a snack shack that steams crabs, and a restaurant on site if you don't feel like cooking," explains Melissa P. about Sun Outdoors Cape Charles.
Distance to supplies: Some campgrounds are relatively remote. "This place is very isolated, make sure you have everything you need, it's a 30 minute drive to the Walmart," advises Sean R. from Thousand Trails Virginia Landing.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "This 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. from Thousand Trails Virginia Landing.
Educational ranger programs: Check schedules for nature programming. "When not blocked by pandemic proposals, the nature center is a hub of educational activity and some great ranger programs. The park can get crowded fast. The eastern shore gets busy quick, even on the weekdays," shares Bill G. about Shad Landing.
Off-season yurt camping: For families seeking yurt accommodations near Onancock, Virginia, consider timing. "This is a great campground where we'll return. I knocked one star off just for the size and closeness of the sites but the rest of the experience was fantastic," notes Sean F. about Janes Island State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for shade: Mature trees provide cooling during summer months. "Nice park. 1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover. 1st row not very level sites. Not quite as spacious/spread out sites as other state parks, but it's on the bay! Tent sites are wooded, no rvs allowed," warns Ashley I. about Kiptopeke State Park Campground.
Hookup limitations: Check utility availability before booking. "Been here several times. 30 amp service available on Acorn Trail and Deer Run. Now water or sewer hookups but there is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot. The river is great for fishing, kayaking, and boating," explains Jason B. about Shad Landing.
Maneuvering challenges: Some parks have tight access roads. "Camping loop also has a partial view of the river, and is steps away from the Nassawango Pavilion and tire playground. One note: the loop road is nicely flat and paved, but very tight and winding, with lots of trees right next to it. Be prepared for a multi-point turn to back into your site!" cautions Jen V. about Milburn Landing.
