First Landing State Park

Virginia's First Landing State Park is its most visited park, consisting of over 2,888 acres, 20 miles of trails and over 1 mile of quiet beaches along the Chesapeake Bay. It is also the spot where, in 1607, the English colonists first made landfall in North America, giving it it's current name.

The park is split into two sides that are separated by state Route 60. The northern side of the park contains the beaches and campground, while the southern side is home to an extensive trail system and swimming spots.

The beaches of First Landing are its main attraction during the hot summer months, drawing crowds daily. There is a large parking lot located at the main entrance, a concession stand and store on hand, as well as a visitor center with a small nature center inside. To get to the beach, you'll need to cross over one of the many wooden walkways that traverse the sensitive dunes. All campground loops have their own access points to the beach.

If you want to get the most out of your hike through the park, try out the 6.5-mile out-and-back Cape Henry Trail, which will take you through forest, swamps, marshes and lakes. Bikes can be ridden on this trail, but beware that in some spots the trail dissolves into thick, loose sand. Along the way, many other smaller trails break off and can be used to form smaller hikes, though bikes are forbidden on these smaller trails.

The park costs $4 on weekdays and $5 on weekends, but it is a small price to pay for the amenities and activities at hand.