Camping sites near Poquoson, Virginia can be found within a 45-minute drive radius on the Virginia Peninsula and Eastern Shore. The region features a mix of coastal wetlands and inland forests with summer humidity levels regularly exceeding 80% and temperatures averaging 85°F in July and August. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures, though snowfall is rare with most campsites remaining accessible year-round.
What to do
Fishing and crabbing opportunities: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, located on the Eastern Shore, visitors can enjoy prime Chesapeake Bay fishing. "Virginia has some wonderful state parks and this is one of my favorites. Its got a nice beach, boat launch and a couple miles of hiking trails. I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," says Stuart M. The fishing pier allows anglers to catch unusual species like searobins.
Water activities beyond swimming: Sun Outdoors Cape Charles offers multiple water-based activities beyond basic swimming. "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. They also have a snack shack that steams crabs, and a restaurant on site if you don't feel like cooking," notes Melissa P.
Historical exploration: The region offers significant historical sites for exploration. Newport News Park provides access to Civil War history with on-site historical features and proximity to other historic destinations. "Great campground close to historic sites," Bob H. mentions, adding that there are "Numerous great sites to see within an hours drive." The campground serves as an effective base for exploring the broader region's historical attractions.
Nature walks and bird watching: Sandy Bottom Nature Park provides trails through reclaimed natural areas. "This really is a great site. There is an amazing nature center that overlooks Sandy Bottom Lake. Hiking, and biking trails, fishing, boating with boat rentals or bring your own, birding and wildlife viewing," states a visitor. The 456-acre park transformed from former garbage dumps offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: First Landing State Park Campground receives praise for its tree coverage. "Excellent. Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities," describes Adam and Suzanne B. The unique forest environment provides natural cooling during hot summer months, with many campers noting the temperature difference compared to open sites elsewhere.
Beach proximity: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers beachfront access that campers particularly appreciate. "The campground is awesome. Beach is a short walk, but what they don't tell you is that there's a club on the beach. So be warned- it's a bit noisy," James A. reports. Other visitors note that "It's located on a peninsula with beautiful bay and creek views. You can enjoy both the sunrise and sunset."
Clean facilities: Holiday Trav-L-Park maintains clean facilities that receive consistent positive feedback. "The bathrooms and shower houses are always very clean as well as the cabins," notes John H. Visitors consistently mention the cleanliness of shower houses and restrooms across various reviews, with the campground's attention to maintenance standing out.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Newport News Park campers frequently comment on wildlife sightings. "Peaceful park filled with plenty of tall trees to stay cool during the summer months," states one camper, who adds that the park has "Miles of trailes and plenty of wildlife with a few historical sites." The wooded environment creates habitat for diverse wildlife that can be observed from campsites.
What you should know
Site spacing and privacy vary significantly: Campgrounds in the region show substantial variation in site spacing. At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, one camper notes that "the only reason I am giving 4 stars is for everyone. I thoroughly enjoyed my spot being in a cul-de-sac. But driving back to my spot I noticed all the A and B spots for trailers are just on top of each other."
Seasonal crowds impact experience: Holiday Trav-L-Park experiences significant seasonal fluctuations in visitor numbers. "We have stayed here numerous times and have made many memories! The atmosphere is very laid back and the staff is very friendly and helpful. I gave four stars because in the last few times we've stayed its VERY crowded and I think it overwhelms the staff," explains John H.
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds have specific noise issues to consider. At The Colonies RV and Travel Park, "Sunday nights are the loudest, but they quiet enough for bed time." Meanwhile, at Newport News Park, a camper reports "some road noise from I 64, but not too bad if you stay deeper into the park and away from the lake."
Military presence affects some areas: Campers at First Landing State Park sometimes hear military operations. "We were in site 156 which was right near a boardwalk and a bathhouse. Be warned if you go to the southern side of the park near the beach that you will be very close to a US military base called Fort Story. You may hear occasional machine guns and artillery. You will also hear reveille in the morning," reports Nita D.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for different ages: First Landing State Park Campground provides family-friendly water experiences. "My extended family has been camping here for years. The facilities are great and there is easy access to the beach. Would definitely recommend to any family that wants to start camping or anyone who wants an easy camping experience," says Xavier N.
Multiple pool options: Holiday Trav-L-Park offers several pool choices that help distribute crowds. One visitor explains, "Nice and relaxing. Best campground in the Va Beach area. Several pools to choose from so you don't have to be packed in at one main pool with all the campground guests."
Playground accessibility: Sandy Bottom Nature Park features playground access that families appreciate. "Lots of hiking trails to walk & turtles in the lake!! Plus you can rent boats for a cheap price which we will probably go back to do. We took out two dogs with us too," shares Gracie B. The proximity of camping sites to play areas makes supervision easier.
Budget-friendly options: For families watching expenses, Sandy Bottom Nature Park offers economical camping. "Overall when you consider the dirt cheap price of 10.60 per night, this campground delivers as advertised," states liz J. The park's tent sites and cabin options provide accommodation flexibility for families of different sizes and budget levels.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Newport News Park presents specific leveling issues for RVs. "Make sure you have leveling chalks as some of the sites are to uneven for auto leveling to work. We had a 32' class c rig and had no problems other than the auto leveling not working which caused us to move sites 3 times," advises Tanya R.
Site selection strategy: At Kiptopeke State Park, RVers recommend specific site locations. "Try and get C loop spots 15 - 21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop," suggests Aaron S. Other campers note that "1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover. 1st row not very level sites."
Utility considerations: First Landing State Park provides various hookup options that RVers should consider when booking. A camper notes, "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room." Water hose length can be an issue at some sites, with one visitor at Newport News Park recommending, "You need at least a 25' hose."
