The Eastern Shore of Virginia forms a narrow peninsula between the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, with Onancock situated on the bay side at just 7 feet above sea level. This low elevation creates vast wetland ecosystems where campers can observe abundant waterfowl and marine wildlife. Winter camping temperatures typically range from 30-50°F, while summer brings 70-90°F days with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Kayaking to island beaches: From Janes Island State Park Campground, paddlers can access a secluded beach via water trails. "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.
Fishing and crabbing: Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday offers dedicated fishing piers where you can catch unique species. "We got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin. By the way, a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it," shares Annemarie R., who visited nearby Kiptopeke State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Biking through wildlife refuges near Chincoteague lets you see wild ponies. "You can drive to Assateague from Chincoteague with your bikes, and then park. One bike beach is off of the Wildlife Loop, and is on pavement the whole way. It is less than a 2 mile bike ride to get there, and there are far less people," explains Rita M. from Tom's Cove Park.
What campers like
Waterfront camping options: Virginia Landing RV Campground offers sites with bay views. "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," writes Angelica K.
Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms at many Eastern Shore campgrounds. "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful," reports Kristen D. about Janes Island State Park.
Space for outdoor activities: Pocomoke River State Park Campground offers room for groups to spread out. "Our site has over 10 people and we all fit. Very quiet but maybe due to COVID," explains one camper, while another notes that "My group 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."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Coastal campgrounds require insect protection. "The bugs can be friendly at times. Unfortunately the facilities are starting to get rundown, the owner's do not like to spend money on the amenities," notes Sean R. about Virginia Landing.
Remote locations: Some campgrounds have limited amenities nearby. "This place is very isolated, make sure you have everything you need, it's a 30 minute drive to the Walmart," cautions another Virginia Landing camper. Similarly, Jason B. from Pocomoke River State Park notes, "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."
Weather considerations: The Eastern Shore experiences seasonal storms and wind. "We did get woken up by terrible thunderstorms, but that is not the campground's fault. By Sunday night, many campers had left to go home, and we spread out into the empty sites around us," explains a camper at Tom's Cove Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Cherrystone Family Camping Resort (now Sun Outdoors Cape Charles) offers multiple water options. "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," writes Jason G. about Virginia Landing.
Playground and recreation options: Many campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "Tons of family fun! There is mini golf, volley ball, fishing, and a playground for the kids," notes Delores T. about Virginia Landing, while another camper mentions that Cherrystone has "multiple pools, plus swimming access in the Bay, mini golf, jumping pillow, and more."
Family-friendly scheduling: Visiting during weekdays often means quieter experiences. "The campground staff told me that the tent camping area is nearly always quiet during the week. The campground is filled to max capacity on only the holiday weekends and Pony Penning," explains Rita M. about Tom's Cove Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites carefully based on your needs. "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," shares Jan K. about Pocomoke River State Park.
Hookup availability: Check which hookups are available before booking. "Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," warns Jason B. about Pocomoke River State Park, while another camper notes, "Most RV/trailer sites are fine unless it storms."
Pet-friendly options for RVers: Many campgrounds near Onancock welcome pets in designated areas. "Two loops allow dogs, one with electric and one without. Clean Bathrooms in each loop with nice showers and plenty of hot water," shares a Pocomoke River State Park visitor, making it an excellent choice for pet-friendly camping near Onancock, Virginia.