Kiptopeke State Park offers cabin accommodations on Virginia's Eastern Shore with beachfront access to the Chesapeake Bay. Several cabin options are available in the park's C loop, with sites 15-21 particularly desirable for their shade and location at the back of the loop. The cabins range from rustic to deluxe styles, with varying amenities based on type and location. Nearby cabin alternatives include Cape Charles/Chesapeake Bay KOA and First Landing State Park, each providing different waterfront experiences.
What to do
Beach activities: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy two distinct beaches. "This park is a nice place to bring your family to camp, fish, crab and relax by the beach and collect seashells. It has 2 beautiful beaches, one that allows pets and the other does not," notes Annemarie R.
Fishing and crabbing: The Eastern Shore cabin locations provide excellent fishing opportunities. "I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," mentions Stuart M. about Kiptopeke State Park. At Sunset Beach Resort, waterfront access makes for productive fishing and crabbing directly from the property.
Hiking trails: Many cabins near Townsend, Virginia provide access to hiking paths. At First Landing State Park Campground, "There is easy access to the beach. There are also trails that are on the campground near their visitors center," reports Timothy B.
What campers like
Bay views: The cabins with Chesapeake Bay views are particularly popular. At Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA, "Beach is gorgeous and clean. Sites are easy to back into and connect," according to Alexa D. The property also features "awesome hammocks that look over the beach, nice place to relax," adds Erin W.
Clean facilities: Most cabin properties maintain well-kept facilities. First Landing State Park earns praise for its "clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk," according to Adam and Suzanne B.
Multiple pool options: Holiday Trav-L-Park stands out for its swimming amenities. "Several pools to choose from so you don't have to be packed in at one main pool with all the campground guests," notes Da'Paul F., while another visitor appreciates that "the pools are nice and clean but can get crowded as expected."
What you should know
Bring your own linens: Most cabin rentals in the area require guests to bring their own bedding, towels, and toiletries, though mattresses are provided.
Reservation requirements: Advance bookings are essential, especially for peak season. Some properties maintain minimum stay requirements, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Military access option: Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park offers cabin options for active and retired military personnel and their families. The campground is "located at the Fort Story Navy Base, set in a wooded area not far from a nice beach right at the corner of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic," explains Janet R.
Varied privacy levels: Site spacing differs significantly between properties. Holiday Trav-L-Park offers "wooded with nice sized sites and plenty of wildlife," while some other properties have more closely spaced accommodations.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple beach options: Families can choose between bay and ocean beaches. "Not a bad spot for camping in the whole park. Short drive to Virginia Beach areas and beach access from the park," mentions Daniel F. about First Landing State Park.
Activity centers: Sun Outdoors Cape Charles provides extensive recreation for children. One visitor highlights "five swimming pools, very clean and well maintained. It has mini golf and paddleboats. It has a great kids program with lots of activities."
Wildlife viewing: Kiptopeke State Park offers nature observation opportunities. "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc," reports Gabby B., adding that "there are wooden boardwalk trails in the park and a few of them leads to different areas on the beach."
Safety considerations: Be aware of local wildlife. At Kiptopeke, one camper warns about handling searobins while fishing: "I did learn they have sharp spines on their gill plates and dorsal fins that inject a mild poison, causing slight pain for two to three days. So be careful!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Kiptopeke State Park, "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not," advises Aaron S. For more privacy, "try and get C loop spots 15-21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop."
Seasonal considerations: Virginia Beach KOA offers significant off-season advantages. "Prices come way down during the off season. Much of the facilities are closed but they keep open one of their bathhouses. Otherwise it's a peaceful stay in the winter months," recommends Leo S.
Beach parking access: When staying at Holiday Trav-L-Park, take advantage of their beach shuttle and parking options. "About a mile to the ocean front but they have their own beach parking lot and provide you with a parking pass for use," notes Da'Paul F.
Connectivity options: For those needing to work remotely, Virginia Beach KOA provides suitable infrastructure. "I'm here for hybrid remote work and the T-Mobile signal is nice and strong for my needs, both for work and entertainment," reports Leo S.
