Chesapeake Bay camping options near Townsend include tent sites, RV hookups and yurt camping across several state parks and private campgrounds. Campgrounds in this region generally stay open year-round, though seasonal variations affect site availability and reservation requirements. The coastal location provides opportunities for water recreation at multiple beaches along with hiking trails that connect campers to both bay and forest environments.
What to do
Fishing and crabbing opportunities: Kiptopeke State Park features a 24-hour lighted fishing pier where campers can catch diverse species. One visitor at Kiptopeke State Park Campground shared their experience: "I did enjoy the fishing pier and got to catch fish I have never seen before. One being a searobin. By the way a searobin crocks like a frog when you grab it."
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Launch directly from the shores at several campgrounds or rent equipment on-site. A camper at Sun Outdoors Cape Charles noted, "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."
Beach exploration and hiking: Most campgrounds offer direct beach access plus trails. "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. The lovely town of Cape Charles with an even better public beach and restaurants is close by," reports one camper about Kiptopeke State Park.
What campers like
Quiet beach access: The beaches at Cape Charles / Chesapeake Bay KOA provide more secluded coastal experiences than oceanfront locations. A visitor mentioned: "Beach is gorgeous and clean. Sites are easy to back into and connect. Quiet at night. People were very friendly."
Camping loop selection: Different loops offer varied experiences at each campground. One camper at Kiptopeke State Park advised: "Try and get C loop spots 15 - 21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop." Another noted: "Eastern Shore gem. Nice park. 1st two rows of sites have almost ZERO tree cover. 1st row not very level sites. Tent sites are wooded, no RVs allowed."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting allows frequent wildlife encounters. At First Landing State Park Campground, campers enjoy "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees." A visitor at Kiptopeke mentioned: "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc; sites are nice and big."
What you should know
Site spacing variations: Campgrounds differ significantly in site layout and privacy. At Kiptopeke, "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."
Military installation proximity: Some campgrounds border military facilities. A Holiday Trav-L-Park camper noted: "Not a bad campground, nice area. LOTS of overhead noise from jets (you do get use to it)." Similarly, at First Landing, campers near certain areas reported: "You may hear occasional machine guns and artillery. You will also hear reveille in the morning."
Weather and seasonal considerations: Summer heat can be intense in coastal Virginia. A First Landing camper advised: "I wouldn't recommend tent camping in the middle of summer - my husband and I both got sick. The beach was nice and quiet, and the water wasn't too cold."
Tips for camping with families
Beach options for kids: Campgrounds offer varying beach experiences. At Thousand Trails Virginia Landing, one family shared: "Walked to the water with the kids to check out the millions of fiddler crabs and a few blue crabs and a hermit crab." Another family mentioned: "The park is wide-open, which provided plenty of space for kids to roam and explore."
Activity planning: Schedule around weather and crowds. "The campground provided opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities that kept our kids entertained throughout our three-night stay," reported a Virginia Landing visitor. A Holiday Trav-L-Park camper noted: "We enjoyed biking all over the place (including a family-friendly bike trail to the VB boardwalk), playing on the many small playgrounds, swimming in the dome-covered pool."
Yurt camping options: For families wanting a glamping experience, First Landing State Park provides family-friendly yurt accommodations. "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."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup locations: Request specific sites based on your hookup needs. At Kiptopeke, "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." Another visitor added: "Nice easy back-in sites, full hookups in good working order, and friendly hosts."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional leveling equipment. "1st row not very level sites," noted one Kiptopeke camper. Another RVer mentioned: "The site was half gravel and half grass. The grading wasn't great and the gravel was thin. Lots of water puddles and the grass was swampy."
Arrival timing: Early arrival improves site selection options. One camper recommended: "Arrive early to choose shady spots." Another noted: "We come every year because it's on our top list of yearly visits. Very pet friendly and they also made a beach side for pets to swim at. Sites are nice and big. Some sunny some shady. Park usually fills up when I'm there."
