Camping sites near Tangier, Virginia connect visitors with the Chesapeake Bay's unique maritime ecosystem where average summer temperatures hover around 85°F with high humidity levels. The Eastern Shore location typically experiences moderate rainfall, with late summer bringing hurricane season risks that campers should monitor. Most campgrounds in this area sit at near sea level, creating natural mosquito habitats that intensify during warmer months.
What to do
Kayaking water trails: At Janes Island State Park Campground, paddlers can navigate well-marked routes through marshes. "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," notes Sean F., who recommends allowing extra time since "it is easy to accidentally head down dead-end channels."
Crabbing from piers: Tom's Cove Park offers direct access to prime crabbing spots. "Lots of wild horses to see. Remember to bring bug spray!!!" advises Tom C. Similarly, Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday provides fishing piers where campers can try their hand at catching crabs. "There are fishing piers and boat rentals. They also have vacation rentals if you don't have your own," reports Laure D.
Wildlife observation: Assateague offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "The kids and I at least enjoyed that part," writes Wendy W. about the beach area at Bayside Assateague. At Pocomoke River State Park's Shad Landing, you can experience "a warm shower, clean restrooms, a camp store that houses a small kitchen (pizza, sandwiches, ice cream) and canoeing through a pretty decent water trail."
What campers like
Water view sites: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, campers value waterfront locations. "The sites have plenty of separation and the park was very quiet. We talked to several fellow campers and all were very welcoming and helpful," notes Nick E. However, some loops lack shade: "1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover. 1st row not very level sites," warns Ashley I.
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at Thousand Trails Virginia Landing receive positive reviews. "Restrooms were cleaned at least twice a day, but the high volume of campers meant they got dirty relatively quickly," reports a Memorial Day weekend camper. Another visitor notes: "Bathrooms were clean but could use some serious updating, only half of the toilets were working. Laundry room was clean and well care for."
Private campsites: Many campers appreciate secluded spots. "Tulip loop has full hookups which was great, but the sites are basically in a swamp. I think we were there before the mosquitos," observes Buck P. at Kiptopeke. At Virginia Landing, one camper notes: "This place is absolutely beautiful and must have been amazing in its prime. No updates are being made and most everything was shut down."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate April through October, with varying conditions. "Being that they are cheaper radios, the build quality isn't super robust," notes a camper about communication devices needed at Tom's Cove Park. At Tall Pines, "Our first trip here and we loved it! We stayed in water view site 10. WV sites 1-7 have great views and some shade."
Bug management: Insects present significant challenges, particularly during summer months. "We were there mid October with less people and less bugs," explains Jodi J. about planning timing at Assateague. Another camper warns: "Being on the bay, a few electric sites. Clean restrooms. Nice dock for boats and great kayak trails."
Campsite quality varies: Campground conditions differ greatly even within a single location. "Sites over here are more private than the Milburn area (across the river, about a 25 min drive), but I understand they are renovating several bathhouses this summer, so read the website alerts and choose your loop carefully!" advises one Shad Landing visitor. At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles (formerly Cherrystone), sites are described as "nicely sized and it's located in the Chesapeake Bay."
Tips for camping with families
Beach accessibility: Sun Outdoors Cape Charles offers family-friendly water access. "We tent-camped for two nights in Loop C, site 87 in early June 2020," explains one visitor to Janes Island, adding that "the 10 PM quiet time was well-respected and there was more of a family than a party atmosphere." At Cherrystone, "My boys love the jump pads, pools and paddle boats. As a family we enjoy the fishing piers, new beach and cafe."
Activity options: Children often enjoy the structured recreational options. "Great place to camp, it has everything you could ask for. The bath houses are very well maintained. There is so much for the kids to do!" reports Kathie M. about Sun Outdoors Cape Charles. Another family notes: "We had a great time. The campground is very nice. Lots of wildlife to watch."
Safety considerations: Several campgrounds prioritize family security. "Campsites are nice and big. Some sunny some shady. Park usually fills up when I'm there," notes Gabby B. about Kiptopeke State Park. At Janes Island, "Camp staff was excellent," and "It gives the campground a bit of a social feel since you're all fairly close, but the 10 PM quiet time was well-respected."
Tips from RVers
Site selection advice: For large rigs, careful planning is essential. "Been here several times. 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," advises Jason B. about Pocomoke River State Park. "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites."
Hookup availability: Full-service options vary widely between campgrounds. "When open, there is Assateague National Park, Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge, Wallops Island NASA center, and the fun of Ocean City- all within an hour drive," notes Bill G. At Tom's Cove Park, "Great point to launch off to explore the nature reserve next to camp Cove. Lots of wild horses to see."
Seasonal spots: Many campgrounds offer long-term options. "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," reports Angelica K. about Thousand Trails Virginia Landing. "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."
