Camping options near Cape Charles on Virginia's Eastern Shore allow for year-round outdoor experiences with mild winters and hot summers. Most campgrounds in the region sit on or near the Chesapeake Bay, providing unique brackish water environments where campers can observe diverse wildlife including ospreys and blue crabs. Tent and RV sites typically range from open bay-view locations to more shaded inland spots with varying degrees of privacy.
What to do
Fishing and crabbing opportunities: At Kiptopeke State Park Campground, visitors have access to a fishing pier where unique catches await. One visitor noted, "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."
Explore barrier islands: The Chesapeake Bay serves as a launching point for kayaking adventures. "I use the park as a base for exploring the barrier island on the ocean side by kayak," explains a camper about their experience at Kiptopeke State Park.
Beach activities: The Colonies RV and Travel Park offers quick beach access. According to a camper, "Beach is a short walk, but what they don't tell you is that there's a club on the beach. So be warned- it's a bit noisy. Sunday nights are the loudest, but they quiet enough for bed time."
Birdwatching: Several campgrounds feature osprey nesting platforms and natural habitats for shorebirds. A visitor to The Colonies mentioned, "I like they built towers for the osprey to build nests. I watched birds catch crabs next to the bathhouse."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Thousand Trails Virginia Landing offers spectacular bay views. A regular visitor commented, "The scenery is amazing, especially at dusk and dawn." The campground sits directly on the shore, creating opportunities for sunset watching.
Clean facilities: First Landing State Park Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Clean, up-to-date facilities. Large laundry room. Close to the bay and a few minutes drive to ocean beaches and the boardwalk," noted a satisfied camper.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate seeing local wildlife. At Kiptopeke State Park, a visitor shared, "Wild animals usually pass by often later in the evening, horses, deer, rabbits etc; sites are nice and big. Some sunny some shady."
Historical context: The region's rich history adds dimension to camping trips. The Colonies RV Park is "located on the historic Fort Monroe. While there you must check out the Fort Monroe Casement Museum. You have water on two sides with excellent walking area."
What you should know
Varied site privacy: Campground layouts differ significantly across the area. At Kiptopeke State Park, a camper observed, "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."
Beach access varies: Not all "beach" campgrounds offer equivalent water access. At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles, "There is no real place to swim on the bay, but they do have a pool. Beautiful area."
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities operate limited schedules. At Virginia Landing, a visitor noted, "Make sure you have everything you need, it's a 30 minute drive to the Walmart."
Ghost stories: Some accommodations come with unexpected features. At Kiptopeke State Park cabins, a guest reported, "It's been well documented that they are haunted. There is a journal/guest log and there are many stories of pennies falling from the ceiling and the rocking chair rocking when no one is sitting in it."
Tips for camping with families
Multiple pool options: Virginia Beach KOA offers water recreation beyond the bay. "Two great pools, tons of activities for the kids even during the week. They have transportation via Trolly bus that comes through frequently throughout the day to transport you to Various beach side activities."
Wide-open spaces: Some campgrounds provide ample room for children to explore safely. At Virginia Landing, a family shared, "The park is wide-open, which provided plenty of space for kids to roam and explore. Virginia Landing is located right on the shore and we felt perfectly comfortable allowing the kids to freely run around."
Activity programming: Organized events keep children entertained. At Sun Outdoors Cape Charles, "It has 5 swimming pools, very clean and well maintained. It has mini golf and paddleboats. It has a great kids program with lots of activities."
Site selection tips: For tent camping families seeking more privacy, specific site recommendations can help. At The Colonies RV Park, a camper advises, "Hint: for more privacy (tent campers) ask for site 6 or 7."
Tips from RVers
Site recommendations: At Kiptopeke State Park, experienced RVers suggest, "Try and get C loop spots 15 - 21. They're shaded and at the back of the loop."
Seasonal rates: Off-season camping offers significant savings. At The Colonies RV Park, "Pricey in the summer time, but they have a monthly winter rate $756 (not proratable) from October 1 thru April 30."
Maneuvering room: Some campgrounds accommodate large rigs better than others. Virginia Landing has "a spacious layout that allowed for easy RV maneuvering. Whether you're a seasoned RV enthusiast or a camper just starting out, you'll appreciate the space."
Hookup availability: Different loops offer varying amenities. At Kiptopeke State Park, "C loop has full hookup where A and B do not."
