If you and your family are ready for a weekend adventure, boy, do I have the perfect place for you. The historic First Landing State Park is an excellent option for adventure-seekers with almost 3000 acres of land and gorgeous beaches. Plus, legend has it that Blackbeard hid in the Narrows of the park! So what better way to get the kids excited than pirates? Keep reading to see what First Landing State Park has to offer.
About First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park is Virginia’s most visited state park, with over 20 miles of trails and 1.5 miles of beachfront. Located on Cape Henry in North Virginia Beach, this 2888-acre park is the perfect place for an outdoor adventure with the family. In 1933, the Commonwealth of Virginia purchased the land, which was dedicated in 1936. In 1965, the park was included in the National Register of Landmarks as the northernmost location on the east coast where temperate and subtropical plants thrive together.
Outdoor Activities at First Landing State Park
Trails and Beaches
First Landing State Park is the perfect place to bring the family for swimming, hiking, biking, boating, fishing, or enjoying a picnic. Nineteen miles of trails are found throughout the park. You will be able to explore many of the habitats found in the park, such as the swamp, salt marsh, forests, wetlands, dunes, and more. Bikes are also allowed on the Cape Henry Trail, which is 5.9 miles long. Families can rent bicycles at the park or from local businesses. In addition, there are 1 ¼ miles of the Chesapeake Bay Beach at First Landing State Park for your family to explore. Unfortunately, there are no lifeguards, so you have to swim at your own risk.
Boats and Camping
Additionally, a boat launch is located at the end of the Narrows in the park. For day visitors, boat launch fees are $4, and they are free for those staying overnight. Camping is available with over 200 campsites starting at just $24 per night. Plus, pets are allowed to stay for $5 extra per night! Twenty cabins are also available for rent and start at $94, varying by the season.
Educational Opportunities
Trail Center, Gift Shop, and Special Events
Inside the park, you’ll find the Trail Center and gift shop. They are open daily from 8 am to 4 pm/ Here, you can see exhibits on natural and cultural resources at the park. You will also be able to partake in special events! Crafty Critters gives kids the opportunity to create arts and crafts to bring home. It is free of cost to all visitors! Creature Feature will allow visitors to get up close and personal with a wild animal while learning the importance of respecting them.
Visitor Center
At the First Landing State Park’s visitor center, you will find educational displays about the history of the park and the landing of English settlers in 1607. There is also information about tours and attractions. This includes the Chesapeake Bay Lab, where you can investigate saltwater tanks, microscopes, beach artifacts, and a topographic sandbox. This attraction allows visitors to learn about Chesapeake Bay. This also includes a guided marsh walk at no extra fee, where visitors can tour the unique ecosystem along the Broad Bay. Visitors can explore marsh life and discover the processes of ecological change.
Pricing and Location
Admission is $4 per vehicle on weekdays and $5 on weekends. They are open daily from 8 am to sunset for day visitors. You can visit the park at 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451.
First Landing State Park
First Landing State Park is the perfect weekend escape for the adventure seekers in your life. Hike the 20 miles of trails, swim in the Chesapeake Bay, and camp under the stars with your family. You can even attend a few events while you’re there! So, grab your backpacks and gear, and head to First Landing State Park today for your next adventure.
Are you looking for more Virginia Beach content? If so, click on the links below for additional blogs! While you’re here, I’d love to chat with you about your next session for your adventurous kids! Click here to view more of my children’s portfolio and here to see my family portfolio. I can’t wait to get the discussion started!
