Chesapeake Bay campgrounds near Onemo, Virginia provide accessible water recreation options in a coastal setting that averages 45 inches of annual rainfall. The rural location at 10 feet above sea level offers protected bay waters ideal for beginners and families. The Virginia shoreline features multiple campgrounds with varied accommodations that complement traditional camping options.
What to do
Crabbing and fishing access: Sun Outdoors Cape Charles provides dedicated piers for water-based activities. "We have a blast every time we come here. There is plenty to do. Pool, beach, fishing, boat rentals, golf, paddle boats, bike rentals, and crabbing," notes Melissa P.
Water recreation rentals: Cross Rip Camp offers equipment for water exploration without hauling your own gear. "Catherine and Rebecca are the best. They provided kayaks, canoes, sailboats, beach chairs, bikes and so much more," according to Gee G., making water activities accessible for all campers.
Local exploration opportunities: Cape Charles town is 10 minutes from multiple campgrounds, offering shopping and dining options. "If you venture into Cape Charles, it's a neat town with some good restaurant options," reports a visitor to Sun Outdoors Cape Charles.
Birding and wildlife viewing: The coastal location attracts diverse bird species throughout the year. "There is boating, hiking, watching wild life and so many pretty birds," mentions Mike T. about his stay at Chesapeake Bay RV Resort.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Thousand Trails Chesapeake Bay offers sites directly on the water. "A49 is on the River," notes Gary M., highlighting the premium waterfront locations that provide direct bay views.
Multiple swimming options: The combination of bay swimming and maintained pools appeals to many campers. "The beaches are beautiful. The pools are fun for all ages and clean," shares Julin S. about Sun Outdoors Cape Charles.
Clean facilities: Kiptopeke State Park Campground maintains well-regarded bathhouses and common areas. "Nice easy back-in sites, full hookups in good working order, and friendly hosts. Great walking trails, boardwalks, and beach access," reports Elizabeth N.
Family programming: Scheduled activities enhance the camping experience throughout peak season. "We went during Scarystone and the kids had a blast," mentions a visitor, referring to the Halloween-themed events at one campground.
What you should know
Varying site spacing: Campground density differs significantly between properties. "Not quite as spacious/spread out sites as other state parks, but it's on the bay! Tent sites are wooded, no RVs allowed," reports Ashley I. about her experience at Kiptopeke.
Weather considerations: The coastal location experiences strong winds and seasonal storms. "We stayed here Sept 2020 during tropical storm and covid, lol. Was a great safe location in port of storm, the sites mostly drained well," shares Beverly T. about her stay at Grey's Point Camp.
Limited groceries: Prepare by bringing supplies. "Very secluded-get groceries before. Not much to do close by," advises a camper at Bethpage Camp-Resort about the rural location.
Well water quality: Some campgrounds use well water systems. "The bath houses were clean but the whole town uses well water, so that was special," notes one visitor about regional water characteristics.
Tips for camping with families
Youth activities: First Landing State Park Campground offers outdoor education experiences. "Great campground for all to enjoy. Access to the beach is a plus, the park rangers do their job well, and many great amenities are available," reports Tyler H.
Playground options: Several campgrounds feature multiple play areas for different age groups. "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.
Evening entertainment: Family-focused programming typically runs during peak season. "There's nothing like a Cherrystone sunset! The whole family had a wonderful time," mentions a camper.
Accessibility features: "We used 2 of them [wooden boardwalk trails] that were wheel chair accessible," shares Annemarie R. about Kiptopeke State Park, noting inclusive access options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection priorities: Machicomoco State Park Campground offers varying sun exposure across sites. "We had a very hot stay. We stayed at campsite 13 which had wonderful shade in the late afternoon," suggests Kaylee G., highlighting the importance of shade selection during summer months.
Hookup variations: Service options differ between campground loops. "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not," advises Aaron S. about Kiptopeke State Park Campground.
Site leveling: Most campgrounds provide level pads for easy setup. "The site was clean and level. No fire pit or grill, so plan ahead," shares Michael B. about his stay at Bethpage Camp-Resort.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary by campground. Cross Rip Camp operates May through mid-November, while some state parks remain open year-round, providing options for winter glamping close to Onemo, Virginia.
