First Landing State Park - Golf course sign shows hole eleven, par four.
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First Landing State Park

4.7
·7k reviews·Virginia Beach, United States

Virginia's most popular state park, offering a unique blend of Chesapeake Bay beaches, maritime forests, and historic significance.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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First Landing State Park - Golf course sign shows hole eleven, par four.

First Landing State Park

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Virginia's most popular state park, offering a unique blend of Chesapeake Bay beaches, maritime forests, and historic significance.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"A beautiful day out walking on the trails and beach. It was so good we came back the next day!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ahead! ⛺

Campsites, especially dune camping, book up months in advance. Plan early!

Ants Beware! 🐜

Bring ant repellent; they are common in some areas. Stay vigilant!

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dune Camping

Dune Camping

Campgrounds

Unique camping experience right on the dunes with easy beach access.

Chesapeake Bay Beach

Chesapeake Bay Beach

Beachfront

Calm, shallow waters perfect for families and wildlife exploration.

Maritime Forest Trails

Maritime Forest Trails

Hiking trails

Explore shaded paths through diverse ecosystems, ideal for walking and nature observation.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Book accommodations and popular campsites well in advance, especially for dune camping. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds, as the beach can get busy with both day visitors and campers.

Park Essentials

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and insect repellent, particularly for ants. While there's a camp store, bringing your own crab pots can enhance your fishing experience.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant for beach and trails
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

First time staying in the Yurts at First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach to celebrate my friends birthday 🎂 ⛺️🥳 Crazy this is our backyard!! 🙌🏼 #firstlandingstatepark #virginiabeach #fyp
@itskateward
3.1K likes • 63.8K views

Book Ahead! ⛺

Campsites, especially dune camping, book up months in advance. Plan early!

Ants Beware! 🐜

Bring ant repellent; they are common in some areas. Stay vigilant!

Certified Beach Boy ⚓️ First Landing State Park gets a 10/10 ✨🌊🛟⚓️ #virginiabeach #firstlandingstatepark #virginiabeachva #dogbeach #viralreels #dogvideos #statepark
@bigrigstiktok
314 likes • 16.4K views
Camping in Virginia at first landing state park Where to go next?
expats_on_the_run
120 likes • 2.9K views

Pack Your Lunch 🧺

Great for family days out. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or trails.

Crab Pots Recommended 🦀

Plenty of crabs around, but bring your own pots for best results.

looking for your new walking spot for 2025? first landing state park is the perfecttttt place with miles of trails and the views are ahhhmazing 🌳🌊 you do have to pay to get in but trust me it’s worth it #virginiabeach #va #virginia #trails #travel #winter #hotgirlwalk #norfolk #757
visitingwithvega
570 likes • 11.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ahead! ⛺

Campsites, especially dune camping, book up months in advance. Plan early!

Ants Beware! 🐜

Bring ant repellent; they are common in some areas. Stay vigilant!

Pack Your Lunch 🧺

Great for family days out. Enjoy a picnic on the beach or trails.

Crab Pots Recommended 🦀

Plenty of crabs around, but bring your own pots for best results.

What Travellers Say

4.7
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise First Landing State Park for its beautiful, calm Chesapeake Bay beach, ideal for families, and its extensive network of shaded hiking trails through a unique maritime forest. The dune camping experience is a standout feature, though booking well in advance is crucial. Some minor drawbacks include the park's proximity to a busy neighborhood and the presence of ants in certain areas.

"One of my favorite state parks!
Dune camping is awesome. Fabulous beach. Decent camp store. Cabins, too. Books up well in advance. Con - very close to a busy neighborhood."

Su S

"We keep coming back year after year. We've been making this trip for about 10 years now. Its a quiet clean campground. The beach is a 10min walk. The Chesapeake bay is perfect for kids, the waves are small, lots of wildlife for the kids to explore."

Shane Hatlee

"A beautiful day out walking on the trails and beach. It was so good we came back the next day for some beach fun. Great for family, friends and the dog. Don't forget to pack a lunch and beverages. Will definitely be back!"

Lynne Taylor

What People Like

Beautiful calm bay beach
Shaded hiking trails
Dune camping experience

What People Dislike

Ants in some areas
Close to busy neighborhood

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

First Landing State Park is located in Virginia Beach, VA. It's easily accessible by car via US-60 East. If you're coming from Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, expect about a 45-minute drive as they are at opposite ends of the Virginia Beach area.Reddit

Public transportation options to the park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach First Landing State Park. Consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.

First Landing State Park is in the northern part of Virginia Beach, known for its beaches and maritime forest. Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is at the southern end, offering a different natural landscape. They are about 45 minutes apart.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entrance fees vary by season and vehicle type. It's best to check the official Virginia State Parks website for the most current pricing. Expect a per-vehicle fee for day use.

The park is generally open daily from dawn to dusk. Specific hours for campgrounds and facilities may vary, so it's advisable to check the park's official website before your visit.

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular spots like dune camping. Campsites and cabins book up well in advance, so plan your trip early.Reddit

Yes, dogs are generally allowed in First Landing State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. They are welcome on the trails and in certain areas of the campground. Check specific rules for beach access.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can enjoy hiking on numerous trails through the maritime forest, relax on the Chesapeake Bay beach, go fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and canoeing. Dune camping is also a popular activity.Reddit

Yes, First Landing State Park offers a variety of trails, including some that are relatively flat and well-maintained, suitable for beginners and families. The Bald Cypress Trail is a popular choice.

Absolutely! The Chesapeake Bay waters here are typically calm with small waves, making it ideal for children to play safely.Reddit

The park is rich in biodiversity. You can spot various bird species, turtles, and marine life in the bay. Keep an eye out for deer and other forest creatures on the trails.

AT&T cell service is reported to be good in the park, which can be helpful for those needing to stay connected for work or emergencies.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants within the park itself. However, there is a decent camp store for basic necessities. You'll find a wide array of dining options in nearby Virginia Beach.

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity. There are designated picnic areas, and many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to eat on the beach or at their campsite.Reddit

It's recommended to pack plenty of food, beverages, and any necessary utensils. Don't forget a cooler to keep your items fresh, especially on warm days.

📸 📸 Photography

The dune-backed beach offers stunning sunrise and sunset views. The maritime forest trails provide opportunities for capturing lush greenery and unique tree formations. The calm bay waters are also picturesque.

Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise over the Chesapeake Bay can be particularly beautiful.

Look for coastal birds, the unique twisted trees of the maritime forest, reflections on the calm bay waters, and the textures of the sand dunes. The historic elements of the park can also be interesting subjects.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

First Landing State Park is a fantastic destination for families. The calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay are perfect for young swimmers and waders, offering a safer alternative to ocean waves.Reddit The park's numerous hiking trails, including boardwalks like the Bald Cypress Trail, are engaging for kids and provide opportunities to spot wildlife. Don't forget to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as enjoying a picnic on the beach or at a designated area is a great way to spend the day.Reddit

Consider booking a campsite or cabin early, as family accommodations are popular. The park's natural beauty and accessible activities ensure a memorable and fun-filled trip for all ages. Remember to bring insect repellent, as ants can be present in some areas.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers

For those who love to explore the outdoors, First Landing State Park offers a rich tapestry of natural landscapes. The maritime forest is a unique ecosystem to discover, with ancient trees and diverse plant life. Over 19 miles of hiking trails cater to various fitness levels, from easy boardwalk strolls to more challenging paths. Keep an eye out for the abundant birdlife and other wildlife that call the park home.

Bring your binoculars and a field guide to enhance your nature observation. The park's varied terrain, including dunes and coastal woodlands, provides excellent opportunities for photography and quiet contemplation of nature's beauty.

🎣 Anglers & Crabbing Enthusiasts

First Landing State Park offers opportunities for both fishing and crabbing. The Chesapeake Bay shoreline is a popular spot for casting a line, and while fishing can be decent, some visitors suggest bringing your own crab pots for a more successful crabbing experience, as crabs are plentiful.Reddit

Remember to check local regulations regarding fishing and crabbing licenses and size/bag limits. The calm bay waters make it a pleasant environment for these activities, and the park's natural setting adds to the enjoyment.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Trails

First Landing State Park boasts over 19 miles of trails winding through its diverse ecosystems. The maritime forest is a highlight, featuring ancient cypress trees and a rich understory. Popular trails include the Bald Cypress Trail, a boardwalk loop perfect for spotting wildlife, and the Lighthouse Trail, which offers glimpses of the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse in the distance.

Many trails are well-maintained and offer varying levels of difficulty, making them suitable for casual walkers and more avid hikers alike. Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially during warmer months. The shaded paths provide a welcome respite from the sun, and the chance to see local flora and fauna adds to the experience.

Beach Life on the Bay

Unlike many oceanfront beaches, First Landing State Park fronts the Chesapeake Bay, offering a different kind of beach experience. The waters here are known for being calm and shallow, with gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for families with young children. It's a perfect place for swimming, wading, and simply relaxing by the water.

Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, building sandcastles, or exploring the shoreline for shells and marine life. While the beach can get crowded, especially during peak season, the park's size and multiple access points help distribute visitors. Remember to pack essentials like sunscreen, towels, and snacks for a full day of enjoyment.

Camping at First Landing

First Landing State Park offers a variety of camping options, with dune camping being a particularly sought-after experience. These sites provide a unique opportunity to sleep amidst the coastal dunes, offering a close connection to the natural environment. The park also features traditional campsites and cabins, catering to different preferences and group sizes.

Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, as popular sites, especially dune camping, fill up quickly. Campers can expect amenities like restrooms and showers. The proximity to the beach and trails makes camping here a convenient and immersive way to experience the park. Be prepared for potential ant activity in some areas and pack accordingly.Reddit

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