Virginia Beach campgrounds provide coastal access with unique maritime forest environments at elevations near sea level. Most campgrounds stay open year-round, though North Bayshore Campground operates seasonally from May through October. Camping conditions range from primitive tent sites at False Cape State Park to full hookup RV sites with 30/50-amp service at multiple locations.
What to do
Beach access from park trails: First Landing State Park Campground has boardwalks leading directly to less crowded beaches. "The camp ground is beautiful and the people are friendly. Our game ground was surrounded by the forest but your in walking distance to the beach. The shower and rest rooms are sit up nicely the best I've seen at a campground," notes Timothy B.
Kayaking on protected waters: North Landing Beach offers direct water access for paddlers. "Kayaking is great. Lots of fishing. Ice cream and pizza place open in the evenings," says Jason B., highlighting the combination of water activities and evening amenities.
Exploring secluded coastline: False Cape State Park Campground requires a 5+ mile hike or bike ride to reach the camping area, creating a remote beach experience. "Really there wasn't hardly anyone else out there, so it felt like we had our own private beach," mentions Sam M., who hiked to his site.
Wildlife observation: Kiptopeke State Park features multiple wildlife habitats. "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc; sites are nice and big," reports Gabby B. about evening wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Quiet beaches away from crowds: Campers appreciate the less-developed beaches near Kiptopeke State Park Campground. "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," writes Annemarie R.
Shaded campsites: First Landing offers sites with natural shade. "Large, private sites among really cool, bent trees. Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk," Adam and Suzanne B. explain.
Winter camping options: Virginia Beach KOA remains operational year-round with reduced rates in off-season. "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," notes Leo S.
Multiple swimming options: Holiday Trav-L-Park features several pools throughout the property. "Several pools to choose from so you don't have to be packed in at one main pool with all the campground guests," explains Da'Paul F., highlighting how the multiple pool setup reduces crowding.
What you should know
Military jet noise: Oceana Naval Air Station creates occasional loud overflights at some campgrounds. "People in the southern side of the park near the beach 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," cautions Nita D.
Drainage issues during storms: Several campgrounds experience standing water after heavy rains. "If rain a lot of rain is forecasted you may want to talk to one of the rangers about your particular site," suggests Nicole L. about Northwest River Park & Campground.
Limited cellular service: Some campgrounds have poor connectivity. "Cellular signal and Starlink won't work well here and the campground WiFi isn't great. But in the true spirit of camping, this is a great place to disconnect," mentions Leo S. about Military Park Fort Story.
Tent sites versus RV sites: Kiptopeke's tent and RV areas differ significantly. "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," explains Joseph H.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: North Landing Beach offers various recreation facilities. "We enjoyed the pool, kayaking & the activities. The store has everything you need & the kids love the snack bar," Chris E. recommends for groups with children.
Educational wildlife opportunities: Virginia Beach KOA provides structured activities for kids. "They have seasonal/holiday family activities, host concerts and have many outdoor games to keep different ages involved," Kelly M. explains about the KOA's programming.
Bike-friendly options: Holiday Trav-L-Park connects to bike trails. "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 (there are three more of them for warm weather), playing mini-golf," shares Amanda P.
Portable beach gear considerations: First Landing's sites require walking to reach the shore. "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," Xavier N. suggests.
Tips for RVers
Big rig access: Holiday Trav-L-Park accommodates large RVs but with varying site quality. "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," notes Rebecca E. about an off-season stay.
Seasonal site selection: North Bayshore Campground offers concrete pads. "Nice pool & bath house. Owners very nice. Close to Virginia Beach & Sandbridge. Pet friendly," Tony L. explains about the campground's RV amenities.
Military-only options: Military Park Fort Story Cape Henry RV Park provides exclusive access for service members. "Large sites, shaded, and semi private (some trees between sites and sites not right on top of each other). Close to beach (dog friendly beach!) and lots of sightseeing," Steve V. describes.
Off-season RV camping: Virginia Beach KOA welcomes remote workers in shoulder seasons. "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 Leo S.
