Virginia Beach camping ranges from marshland settings on the mainland to beachfront options along the Atlantic coastline. The area has a temperate climate with average summer temperatures between 75-85°F and milder winters rarely dropping below freezing. Camping terrain varies from sandy beachfront to wooded inland sites, with elevation generally below 25 feet above sea level across the region.
What to do
Kayaking through Back Bay: False Cape State Park Campground offers excellent water access. "This place was really unlike any campground I've been to... Really there wasn't hardly anyone else out there, so it felt like we had our own private beach," notes one visitor who found the saltwater fishing particularly rewarding.
Military history exploration: Cape Henry RV Park, located on Fort Story Navy Base, provides unique historical access. "This 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. Two historic lighthouse mark the spot!" explains a military family camper.
Beach activities beyond swimming: North Landing Beach campground features water recreation beyond traditional beach activities. "Kayaking is great. Lots of fishing. Ice cream and pizza place open in the evenings," shares a camper who particularly appreciated the additional amenities after water activities.
What campers like
Quieter beaches: First Landing State Park earns praise for its less crowded shoreline. "The beach is more secluded and you're close to all the activities that Virginia Beach has to offer," notes a camper who appreciated both the natural setting and proximity to attractions.
Variety of water experiences: Kiptopeke State Park Campground offers dual water experiences. "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," mentions a visitor who enjoyed the wooden boardwalk trails leading to different beach areas.
Off-season value: Virginia Beach KOA remains open year-round with significant advantages during quieter months. "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," reports a winter visitor who found the experience worthwhile.
What you should know
Military proximity: Some Virginia Beach campgrounds are situated near military installations. According to a camper at First Landing State Park Campground, "We were right near a boardwalk and a bathhouse... be 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."
Reservation difficulties: Some campgrounds use third-party reservation systems that can cause complications. A Northwest River Park camper explains, "My only issue was the park's reservation system... After being given 4 different numbers and talking to 6 different people I gave up trying to change the reservation."
Drainage concerns: Low-lying coastal areas can experience standing water after heavy rains. A visitor to Indian Cove Camp Resort noted, "If the wind and rain comes in from the south, there can be a bit of flooding, some sites are worse than others... Not something that stops us from visiting, just to be aware of and pay attention."
Tips for camping with families
Remote beach camping: False Cape State Park Campground requires effort to reach but rewards with solitude. "We've lived so close to this park for so long and I regret not coming sooner. This park is 5+ miles from the Little Island Park Parking lot... But because of this, the Park is a serene oasis away from traffic, no RV's, not a lot of people."
Alternative transportation: Holiday Trav-L-Park offers solutions for beach access without moving vehicles. "1 mile roughly to the ocean front but they have there own beach parking lot and provide you with a parking pass for use," explains a repeat visitor.
Shoulder season visits: Northwest River Park & Campground provides a less crowded option with family amenities. "Chesapeake Public Park's does a great job with events and education at NWRP! Equestrian trails available, which is always a plus," notes a local who frequently visits with children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for comfort: North Bayshore Campground provides concrete pads for easier RV setup. "This is a great campground right on The Back Bay. Concrete sites with full hookup. Nice pool & bath house. Owners very nice. Close to Virginia Beach & Sandbridge. Pet friendly," explains an RVer who appreciated the hard surface.
Connectivity considerations: For remote workers, Virginia Beach KOA offers reliable connectivity options. "I'm here for hybrid remote work and the T-Mobile signal is nice and strong for my needs, both for work and entertainment. Easy to get in and out of the campground," reports a digital nomad staying at the KOA.
