Virginia's Eastern Shore camping ranges from bayside sites to coastal retreats with both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean accessible from multiple locations. Tangier itself, a small island community in the Chesapeake Bay, has limited camping options, but the mainland offers numerous campgrounds within 30-60 minutes of the Tangier Island Ferry. Most campgrounds in this region experience high occupancy from late spring through early fall, with seasonal closures common during winter months.
What to do
Water activities at Grey's Point: Camp visitors at Grey's Point can enjoy fishing from piers and kayaking on the Rappahannock River. "We stayed here Sept 2020 during tropical storm and covid... Was a wonderful stay, campground is huge, bring your golf cart or rent one there," notes Beverly T. from Grey's Point Camp.
Wildlife viewing near Chincoteague: The Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island location provides convenient access to both Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Island. "We tried out this place as our first family camping trip... the facilities are well-maintained," says Frank E. from Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island.
Crabbing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for crabbing. "We loved this campground. We had so much fun and there is quite a bit to do here. Wish the playgrounds had a bit more for the younger children but it kept them occupied! Fishing didn't get us much but not the campgrounds fault," reports Christopher T. of Grey's Point Camp.
Boating access: Multiple rv sites near Tangier, Virginia provide boat launch facilities or rental options. "Our site was back by the cabins... Very nice and very clean! The staff was all very friendly and accommodating," notes Chris O. from Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campsites offer direct water views of either the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic coastal areas. "We stayed at site 411 for five nights... The pull-through sites are long and nicely spaced," reports Greg S. from Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain well-kept bathhouses and common areas. "We had a wonderful time at Grey's Point campground and would love to go again. They had great staff, clean restrooms, and great views of the Rappahannck River," says Glen P.
Family-oriented programming: Scheduled activities keep children engaged at several campgrounds. "Tall Pines Harbor is a great place for a family with kids. Management was very welcoming — the park does themed weekends throughout the entire year," writes Trey C. from Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday.
Historical proximity: Many campgrounds provide access to colonial and maritime historical sites. "This is an amazing recreational campground for military families and retirees that is located right on the York River between Williamsburg and Yorktown," explains Janet R. from Military Park Cheatham Annex.
What you should know
Remote locations: Some campgrounds have limited nearby services. "Remote, beautiful, bay view... We loved this campground. 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," notes Angelica K. from Thousand Trails Virginia Landing.
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks and campgrounds along the Eastern Shore operate seasonally. "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," says Beverly T. of Grey's Point Camp.
Variable site conditions: Weather can impact camping conditions, particularly in low-lying areas. "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," explains Jason G.
Insect preparation: Coastal camping requires mosquito management strategies. "Bring bug spray, tiki torches, and mosquito fog spray with all the sitting water around the campground," advises Greg S. from Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday.
Tips for camping with families
Look for water amenities: Sites with swimming pools provide alternative activities when bay or ocean conditions aren't ideal. "There are waters slides, playgrounds, fishing, water rentals, and campground sponsored fun," notes Scott T. from Grey's Point Camp.
Consider transportation needs: Some campgrounds cover large areas requiring alternative transportation. "This campground is super clean, has nice sized sites, everyone is friendly and helpful. It's our favorite campground," says Gail H. of Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island.
Verify playground availability: Playground equipment varies significantly between locations. "We loved Bethpage so much we are booked again. Of all the campgrounds we've been to-our kids rate this one as their favorite- it has a great water park, mini golf and flat biking," shares Cyndi N. from Bethpage Camp-Resort.
Check activity schedules: Many campgrounds offer structured activities during peak season. "We enjoyed all the family activities there are to do. We went bike riding and also enjoyed that this campground is Golf Carr friendly. The grandkids loved all the water slides and met such wonderful people," explains Jennifer G.
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Cell and internet service varies widely among rv sites near Tangier, Virginia. "Very poor to non existent Wi-Fi and cell service (both T-Mobile and Verizon) management great. We were in middle of week and it was calm and quiet," reports Tim S. of Grey's Point Camp.
Site selection strategy: Request waterfront sites far in advance during peak season. "We enjoyed the site Mulberry 2A that was a full hookup and a patio...backed to the lake," shares Robert P. from Bethpage Camp-Resort.
Utility arrangements: Hookup placements and availability differ between campgrounds. "The sites are spacious and always clean when we arrive. The new bath house is excellent. The views of the 'Rivah' are phenomenal," explains Cathy F.
Road access awareness: Some campground approaches involve narrow local roads. "Our Garmin GPS and Waze brought us in on the back roads at Accomac versus keeping us on US-13... US-13 to Saxis Rd/695 is a much easier and direct route to the CG," advises MickandKarla W.
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