First Landing State Park Campground

Are you a Virginian seeking the perfect escape into nature without venturing too far from urban conveniences? First Landing State Park Campground in Virginia Beach offers an idyllic setting for your next outdoor adventure. As a professional content writer specializing in local business SEO, I’m excited to share an in-depth look at this beloved campground, providing all the essential details for local users in Virginia. From its historical significance to its diverse recreational opportunities, First Landing State Park Campground stands out as a prime destination for a memorable camping experience.

First Landing State Park holds a special place in Virginia’s history, named to commemorate the 1607 landing of the first English settlers who eventually established Jamestown. This rich heritage, combined with its unique ecological features, makes it more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. It's an oasis within urban Virginia Beach, boasting a diverse landscape that includes bald cypress swamps, maritime forests, freshwater wetlands, and a beautiful stretch of Chesapeake Bay beach. Whether you’re a seasoned camper, a family looking for a weekend getaway, or a solo adventurer craving tranquility, First Landing State Park Campground offers something for everyone.

First Landing State Park Campground is conveniently located at US-60, Virginia Beach, VA 23459, USA. This prime address places it strategically along Shore Drive, providing excellent accessibility for residents across Virginia and the wider Hampton Roads area. For those living in cities like Norfolk, Chesapeake, or Suffolk, the park is just a short drive away, making it an ideal choice for spontaneous weekend trips or longer vacations.

The park’s position along US-60 (Shore Drive) ensures easy navigation for vehicles of all sizes, including RVs. This main thoroughfare connects seamlessly with other major roads in Virginia Beach, allowing quick access to local attractions. While the park offers a secluded natural feel, it remains remarkably close to the vibrant offerings of Virginia Beach, including its famed boardwalk, diverse dining options, and various entertainment venues. This blend of natural serenity and urban proximity is a significant draw for many visitors.

While the campground is nestled in a natural setting, it’s not entirely removed from the sounds of military operations. Being near the Little Creek-Fort Story Joint Expeditionary Base, visitors might occasionally hear or see training exercises. However, these activities typically conclude by 10 p.m. and pose no risk to park guests, ensuring a peaceful night's rest for campers.

First Landing State Park Campground provides a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience for all visitors. These services cater to various camping preferences, from primitive tent sites to fully equipped RV hookups.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The park boasts over 200 campsites. These include primitive (standard) sites without water or electric hookups, and regular sites with reliable water and electric hookups, accommodating equipment up to 50 feet. Group campsites are also available, suitable for larger gatherings.
• Clean Bathhouse Facilities: Throughout the campground, numerous bathhouse facilities are conveniently located. These are well-maintained and offer hot showers, flush toilets, and dish-washing sinks, which are highly appreciated by campers, especially during cooler seasons, as noted by a grateful visitor in November.
• Camp Store: For immediate needs and forgotten items, the camp store, situated in the same complex as the main office, sells a variety of camping supplies, firewood, and basic food items. It also offers bicycle rentals, perfect for exploring the park's trails.
• Laundry Facility: A small laundry facility with coin-operated washers and dryers is available next to the camp store, providing added convenience for longer stays.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill, encouraging outdoor cooking and campfire gatherings under the stars.
• Boat Launch: A boat launch is available at the end of the 64th Street park road, leading to The Narrows, a popular area for fishing and crabbing. Overnight guests of the park can use the boat launch for free.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Pets are welcome in the campground for an additional charge of $5 per pet, per night, allowing many Virginians to bring their furry companions along on their outdoor adventures. Pets must always be on a leash no longer than six feet and cleaned up after.

First Landing State Park Campground is rich in features that make it a standout destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in Virginia. Its unique blend of natural habitats and recreational opportunities provides a memorable experience.

• Direct Chesapeake Bay Beach Access: A major highlight is the easy access to the Chesapeake Bay beach, described by visitors as "quiet and uncrowded." It’s perfect for peaceful walks, enjoying stunning sunsets and sunrises, and swimming in the calm bay waters (unguarded). Boardwalks with ramps provide handicap accessibility, as highlighted by a satisfied camper.
• Extensive Trail System: The park boasts 19 miles of trails that traverse diverse ecosystems, including cypress swamps, salt marshes, and maritime forests. The popular Bald Cypress Trail features boardwalks with scenic swamp overviews, while the Cape Henry Trail is a favorite for both hikers and bikers, stretching over 6 miles.
• Historical Significance: As the site of the 1607 English landing, the park is steeped in history. Visitors can explore historical sites and learn about its past, enriching their outdoor experience with cultural context. The Chesapeake Bay Center also offers educational displays and aquariums.
• Diverse Wildlife: The park is a haven for wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching (especially migratory birds in spring), and spotting various land animals, fish, and even marine mammals like dolphins in the Chesapeake Bay during winter.
• Year-Round Appeal: Each season brings its unique charm to First Landing State Park. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, summer is ideal for beach activities, fall showcases stunning foliage and unique phenomena like the “rainbow sheen” in cypress swamps, and winter provides peaceful solitude for wildlife observation.
• Yurt Rentals: For those seeking a unique glamping experience, the park offers four recreational yurts, located in the dunes along the Chesapeake Bay. These yurts provide a blend of tent and cabin living, with amenities like a wooden deck, picnic tables, and access to bathhouse facilities.

While specific, time-limited promotions can vary, Virginia State Parks often offer various programs and deals. It's always advisable for locals in Virginia to check the official Virginia State Parks website or call the campground directly for the most current information on special offers. However, some general pricing and policies that could be considered "offers" in terms of value include:

• Affordable Camping Rates: Campsite fees are structured to be accessible, ranging from $32 to $49 per night for non-residents and slightly lower for Virginia residents, depending on the type of site (standard or electric/water hookup).
• Free Day Swimming for Overnight Guests: During the guarded swimming season (typically Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day), overnight guests receive one day of swimming at the designated beach for free for each night reserved.
• Group Camping Options: The availability of group campsites at specific rates allows larger parties to enjoy the park together, potentially offering cost savings per person compared to individual sites.

To make reservations, inquire about current availability, or get the most up-to-date information on First Landing State Park Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: US-60, Virginia Beach, VA 23459, USA

Phone: (800) 933-7275

Mobile Phone: +1 800-933-7275

The Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center is generally open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays. It is highly recommended to book reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons (summer and fall), as First Landing State Park is Virginia’s most visited state park.

First Landing State Park Campground is an exceptional destination perfectly suited for locals in Virginia seeking a diverse and enriching outdoor experience. Its strategic location in Virginia Beach offers the convenience of being close to home while providing an immersive natural environment. This accessibility makes it ideal for spontaneous weekend getaways, educational family trips, or a refreshing break from daily life.

The park’s unique blend of historical significance, ecological diversity, and recreational opportunities caters to a wide range of interests. From peaceful strolls along the Chesapeake Bay beach and challenging hikes through ancient cypress swamps to engaging in water activities like fishing and crabbing, there's always something to do. The positive reviews from real customers consistently highlight the clean, spacious campsites, reliable hookups, clean facilities with hot water, and the overall peaceful atmosphere. The friendly and helpful staff and rangers further enhance the visitor experience, ensuring a welcoming environment.

For Virginians, First Landing State Park Campground offers an affordable and accessible opportunity to reconnect with nature, learn about the state's rich history, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Its commitment to providing well-maintained facilities and diverse activities solidifies its position as a top-tier campground in the Commonwealth. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoor lifestyle, First Landing State Park Campground invites you to discover the beauty and tranquility that lies within this treasured Virginia gem.