Yurt camping near Poquoson, Virginia sits along the Chesapeake Bay where the maritime climate features hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 85°F and mild winters with occasional freezing nights. The coastal lowlands elevation ranges from sea level to approximately 10 feet, creating areas prone to tidal flooding during storms. Camping options typically include sites within oak and pine forests that provide natural shade, though some bayfront locations offer unobstructed water views with minimal tree cover.
What to do
Kayaking through marshlands: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can explore unique ecosystems beyond the main beach areas. One visitor noted, "I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," making it perfect for paddlers seeking less crowded waterways.
Beachcombing for treasures: The shores along Chesapeake Bay camping areas offer interesting finds for collectors. A camper at Chippokes State Park Campground mentioned you can "hunt for sharks teeth on the beach," providing a fascinating activity for all ages during low tide periods.
Fishing for unique catches: Fishing opportunities near Poquoson include some unexpected species. At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, one camper shared their experience: "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin... a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it."
What campers like
Quieter beaches: Many campers appreciate the less crowded shorelines at these camping areas. A visitor to First Landing State Park Campground noted, "Beach is awesome, not crowded at all. We love it and visit every year," making it ideal for those wanting to avoid tourist hotspots.
Large, private sites: Some campgrounds offer more spacious accommodations than others. According to a camper at First Landing State Park Campground, "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches."
Pet-friendly options: For those traveling with dogs, many coastal Virginia campgrounds accommodate pets. A review from Sun Outdoors Cape Charles mentioned, "We were able to bring our dog and our canoe," while another camper at Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA noted they "also made a beach side for pets to swim at."
What you should know
Military presence: Some campgrounds near military installations experience related noise. A camper at First Landing State Park Campground 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."
Limited shade at some sites: Coastal locations often have less tree cover. A reviewer at Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA advised, "Zero shade, make sure you have your awning and/or extra tents," which is crucial information for summer camping planning.
Site spacing variations: The proximity to neighbors varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Kiptopeke State Park Campground observed, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible boardwalks: Families with strollers or mobility challenges should seek out campgrounds with improved access. A camper at Kiptopeke State Park Campground shared, "There are wooden boardwalk trails in the park and a few of them leads to different areas on the beach. We used 2 of them that were wheel chair accessible."
Consider tent cabins for kids: For families new to camping, Sandy Bottom Nature Park offers simpler accommodations. A reviewer explained, "Sites: 11 primitive tent sites 2 of which are group sites, 4 tent cabins that sit right on the edge of the lake," providing options for those wanting more structure than traditional tenting.
Check wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy animal sightings during camp stays. One Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA visitor reported, "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc," creating natural entertainment for younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Choose sites carefully for leveling: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain for larger rigs. An RVer at Chippokes Plantation State Park Campground noted, "The campsites on the A loop are a little more on an angle, they converted tent site lots to camper lots so they come with a level tent area as well," suggesting careful site selection is needed.
Seek shaded spots early: For summer camping in RVs without adequate cooling, arriving early improves site selection. A visitor to Kiptopeke State Park Campground suggested, "Arrive early to choose shady spots," as afternoon temperatures can make exposed sites uncomfortable.
Look for specific loop recommendations: Experienced RVers often share optimal parking locations. For instance, at Kiptopeke State Park Campground, a camper specifically recommended, "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not. Try and get C loop spots 15-21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop."
