6 Beautiful Spots for Camping in Virginia Beach

Are you looking for a fun and affordable weekend? Why not try camping in Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach has some of the best camping spots in the state with something to offer everyone. From primitive camping to RV parks, this guide will go through it all.

Camping directly on many of the public beaches in Virginia Beach is strictly prohibited, but there are still plenty of state parks and privately owned campgrounds you can stay at without a hefty price tag.

State Park Campgrounds Near Virginia Beach

False Cape State Park

Camping in Virginia Beach at False Cape State Park.

If primitive camping directly on the beach is your style, False Cape State Park is the best option in the state. It’s one of Virginia’s most remote state parks and the only place you can (legally) hike to and camp on the beach.

Plenty of space is available throughout the park’s four camping areas: Barbour Hill Bay, Barbour Hill Ocean, False Cape Landing Bay, and False Cape Landing Ocean. However, you must make a reservation ahead of time and post a copy of your reservation.

Note that this is an authentic primitive camping experience. Inexperienced campers and children should not attempt to camp at False Cape State Park. No open campfires are permitted either – you must use a camp stove for cooking meals.

Learn more: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/false-cape

First Landing State Park Campground

beach access when camping in Virginia Beach at First Landing State Park

While not as secluded as False Cape State Park, First Landing State Park is another top choice for camping in Virginia Beach. It has over 200 sites, so you’ll have plenty to pick between depending on your preferences. 

The locations of the sites vary from right behind the sand dunes (although you can’t walk over them) to a little more inland and less private. Some have full hookups for small campers, while others are designated for tent camping only. Yurt and cabin rentals are available as well. 

While you won’t be directly on the beach, there are 4 different boardwalks in the campground you can take to get your toes in the sand quickly. Just make sure you bring some bug spray – the mosquitos at First Landing State Park are known for being a burden.

Make a reservation at: https://reservevaparks.com/web/Facilities/SearchViewUnitAvailabity.aspx

READ MORE: The Best Campgrounds Near Charlottesville, VA

Kiptopeke State Park Campground

Ship Fleet coming into shore from Kiptopeke State Park

45-minutes north of Virginia Beach in Cape Charles is Kiptopeke State Park. This pet and kid-friendly campground is situated along the Chesapeake Bay and hosts large, grassy sites for camping of all types with easy beach access.

Campsites are available for RVs up to 40ft or solely tent camping. All of the sites are equipped with a fire ring and picnic table where you can sit and enjoy the waves crashing nearby at night.

Kiptopeke State Park Campground is quite popular among locals, so make sure you reserve your specific site in advance at the link below. Otherwise, you may need to drive around and find an open spot if there are any available.

Reserve a spot: https://reservevaparks.com/web/Facilities/SearchViewUnitAvailabity.aspx

Privately-Owned Campgrounds Near Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach KOA Holiday

It’s hard to go wrong with a quality KOA campground. The Virginia Beach KOA Holiday makes it easy to enjoy everything nearby with its convenient location in the heart of Virginia Beach and selection of sites. 

There are lots of activities for families to do here if you’re bringing the kids along. Two swimming pools are open on-site throughout the summer and numerous other activities like volleyball, outdoor ping pong, horseshoes, cornhole, and a giant water slide. You can also rent bikes or go ziplining with Adventure Works.

While it’s not located on the beach, they make it easy to access. A trolly is available to take you there.

To reserve a spot, visit: https://koa.com/campgrounds/virginia-beach/

READ MORE: 9 Best Outer Banks Campgrounds

Holiday Trav-L Park

Tent camping, RV camping, you name it – Holiday Trav-L Park has it all if you’re looking for somewhere to camp right in the middle of the action of Virginia Beach. 

Located on the corner of 24th and Action Ave, it’s only two blocks from the beach and offers easy beach access by trolley. They also provide a private parking lot if you would rather drive to the beach.

Sites are available for campers up to 100′ long and 60′ wide, so it can accommodate most large campers. There are also plenty of tent sites if you’re not bringing an RV or trailer to town.

To learn more or make a reservation, visit: https://www.campingvb.com/

Other Primitive Campsites Near Virginia Beach

beach camping near virginia beach in North Carolina

The eastern shore of Virginia and Virginia Beach are great places to camp, but they don’t quite compare to other places you can visit on the East Coast.

If you want to rough it a little more and can make the longer trip, beach camping in North Carolina offers a broader selection of dispersed camping. Some locations even let you drive out on the beach if you have a truck or 4×4 vehicle.

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