First Landing State Park is one of Virginia’s most visited state parks, and it’s understandable why.
Its beautiful beaches and swampland coupled with its rich history and proximity to Virginia Beach make it an excellent destination for all ages.
This visitors guide will walk you through everything you need to know before visiting First Landing State Park. It will also point you to several other helpful resources for planning your trip.
[Want to see more? Explore some of the best Virginia State Parks in our full guide.]
History of First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park commemorates the historic arrival of Christopher Newport, John Smith, and the 102 other passengers aboard the Discovery, Susan Constant, and Discovery from England in 1607.
After their long journey across the Atlantic, they landed at Cape Henry and eventually traveled to found the first permanent English settlement Jamestown.
The name First Landing State Park was officially established in 1997, and the park is now one of the most popular state parks in Virginia.
Entrance Fees
The fee to enter First Landing State Park is $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends for standard vehicles. Larger vehicles of 9-15 passengers or buses with 16 or more passengers must pay a higher fee, so be aware of that if you’re planning a big group trip to the park.
The park accepts cash, checks or credit cards. Payments are taken at the entrance station. If you wish, you can also purchase an annual pass to access First Landing State Park and all of Virginia’s other beautiful state parks.
Camping in First Landing State Park

First Landing State Park offers multiple camping options to visitors, including tent and RV campsites, yurt rentals, and cabins.
Tent/RV Campsites
First Landing State Park is one of the top places for camping in Virginia Beach because of its wide range of options.
The park hosts tent-camping spots for small and large groups and sites for campers with 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical hookups. RVs over 50ft in length are not allowed.
All reservations at the park come with a fire pit, but you must purchase firewood at the Snack Bar. Each site has free access to the boat launch if you’re bringing a boat or jet-ski along on your trip.
Yurts
For those looking for a more unique camping experience, the park also offers yurt rentals.
These cozy structures provide all the amenities of a traditional campsite but with a bit modern twist.
Cabins
20 cabins are available for rent at the park on a weekly basis between Memorial Day and Labor Day. All are equipped with a kitchen, fireplace, deck, and plenty of space inside to relax. Note that you must bring your own linens and towels. The park does not provide them.
RESERVE A SPOT: https://reservevaparks.com/web/Facilities/SearchViewUnitAvailabity.aspx
Things to Do in First Landing State Park
There are plenty of things to do in First Landing State Park, whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll, an adrenaline-pumping hike, or just a relaxing few days.

Hiking & Biking Trails
There is something for everyone if you’re looking to ride a bike around or hike in First Landing State Park.
Overall, there are 19 miles of trails to explore. All of them are easily accessible from the trail center located off Atlantic Avenue. Three of our favorites are below.
Cape Henry Trail – The most popular trail in the park and the only one available to bikers. It is 6 miles in length and stretches the entire distance of the park from north to south. Enjoy views of just about everything the park offers, from cypress swamps, forestry, and wildlife.
Bald Cypress Trail – Hike across multiple boardwalks and stop at observation platforms as you travel along this 1.5-mile loop trail through the cypress swamps of First Landing State Park.
Long Creek Trail – Walk along the edge of the bay and salt marshes on this 5-mile trail that runs parallel to the Cape Henry Trail. Enjoy some of the best bird watching in the area and additional views of While Hill Lake.
Boating
There is one boat launch at First Landing State Park. It is located at the Narrows in the park’s southern area and provides access to Broad Bay and Linkhorn Bay. Access to the boat ramp is free if you’re staying overnight; otherwise, there is a $5 fee per boat.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted on the beach at the park if you have a valid Virginia saltwater fishing license. Find information about attaining a license on the Virginia DWR Website.
Picnics
A picnic shelter is available for rent that can accommodate up to 80 guests for large events. It is stocked with drinking water, fire grills, tables, and a clean restroom facility.
Children’s Events/Programs
First Landing State Park offers many fun events for children throughout the year like treasure hunts, survival training, group hikes and more.
Things to Do Near First Landing State Park

If you’re looking to get away from the park for a while, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk is just a few minutes away from the park. There are also several other great activities for families in the area if you’re not familiar with Virginia Beach.
The Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center, Cape Henry Lighthouse, and Mount Trashmore Park are just a few top options.
Directions to First Landing State Park
From Richmond
To get to First Landing State Park from Richmond or Central Virginia, take I-64 East towards Norfolk. Take exit for VA- 168 South/Great Neck Road. Merge onto VA-168 South and continue until you reach the exit for VA-60 East/Shore Drive. Drive on Shore Drive for about 8.5 miles until First Landing State Park will be on your right.
From Northern Virginia
To get to First Landing State Park from Northern Virginia, take I-95 South towards Richmond. In Richmond, take the exit for I-64 East towards Norfolk/Virginia Beach. Take the exit for VA- 168 South/Great Neck Road. Merge onto VA-168 South and continue until you reach the exit for VA-60 East/Shore Drive. Drive on Shore Drive for about miles until First Landing State Park will be on your right.
From Virginia Beach
First Landing State Park is a quick trip away if you’re located in Virginia Beach. Drive on Pacific Avenue north until it turns into Atlantic Avenue, then you will arrive at the park on your left shortly, depending on which part of the beach you’re driving from.