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First landing state park is one of the places that makes me happy to call Virginia Beach my home. It's absolutely beautiful and has many trails for all of your walks, runs, and bike rides. Lots of shade makes it a great spot for warm days. Staff at the trail center are very friendly and helpful! Definitely a must-do stop if you are visiting VB and if you're a local, well it will be your new fav spot!
Wildlife and trails galore. Even camping onsite. There is free parking and even though this is tucked away off the interstate, it is very calm and peaceful
This majestic park had some construction going on, but was perfectly accessible. It had nice facilities and an inland area as well as a stretch of beach. The inland area is a blackwater swamp that really feels like you're in the Deep South. I have to remind myself that there are no alligators in a place like this. There were some small turtles that were engaged in a frankly ridiculous duel (awfully hard for non-snapping turtles to actually injure each other). The aesthetics were nice, the trails abundant, and I wrapped up with a sunset on the beach looking out towards the bridge, albeit with some sandflies as there wasn't a ton of wind on the day. The sense of history as well as the fascinating range of natural sites made me glad that I spent money on a Virginia state park pass.
A really beautiful setting along the Virginia coast. There's a large number of dunes, filled with birds, hermit crabs and a wide variety of plant life. The water feels warmer than it does at Virginia Beach. Very peaceful place to catch some rays
First Landing State Park is easily one of the best spots in Virginia Beach to get outside and enjoy nature. There are so many trails to choose from, whether you're looking for a long run, a scenic bike ride, or just a casual walk. The park hugs the inlet, so you get beautiful water views along the way. One of the best parts about this park is that it truly has something for everyone. If you want to run 14 miles through the woods, you can. If you'd rather take an easy one mile stroll along the beach, that's an option too. The variety makes it perfect for any mood or energy level. I bring my dog here all the time, and he absolutely loves it. There's plenty of space for him to explore, lots of shade, and always something new to sniff. It's a great spot for a peaceful morning walk or an active day outside, even post snow storm! Parking is easy, and the park is well-maintained. There's a small fee to enter, but it's worth it for how much there is to do. Whether you're a local or just visiting, First Landing is a must if you love the outdoors. Beautiful scenery, well kept trails, and the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. I never get tired of coming here!
For starters, even though the address is Virginia Beach, this state park is on the coast of the Chesapeake Bay. The advantage is that it's not crowded. That being said, it's a state park so there is a fee to park here. $7 on a weekday, and $10 weekends April - October. My friend lives down here so she has an annual pass. Parking was almost at capacity when we went. It's a dog friendly beach, but there's a fee for that too. I'm not sure if you are supposed to keep your fur baby on a leash, but I don't care if they behave. It's lovely here. Not crowded like Virginia Beach. You can actually have a relaxing day at the beach. They have changing/bathrooms here. Picnic tables not far from the beach too. It's near a military training center, so don't be alarmed if you see a flyover. It may be noisy at times too.
I've visited this state park for years and make a point to get out here for a hike every time I'm in Virginia Beach. I've checked out the campground and would love to do an overnight campout, but so far that's still on the 'to do' list. The hiking here is great!! There are no steep inclines but the views of the wetlands and woods are really spectacular. Their website says the trails go through, "cypress swamp, salt marsh, maritime forest, freshwater wetlands, dunes, and bay shoreline." We're told that in the colonial era, pirates hid out here when the authorities wanted to chat with them!! On my last hike, we saw a cottonmouth snake lounging in a swamp! Wow!! Stay on the boardwalks and trails!! Don't poke the bear or snake. This is a great state park and offers lots of great options for campers and hikers. We will be back next time we're in the area.
We camped in the park for three nights and had a wonderful time. The staff when checking in were great. The sites are amazing. Very private and large sites. An easy walk to the beach and a beautiful setting. It was really nice to see that the VB buses came into the park and were available to see around the city. The camp store was nice as well. We had a wonderful time!
We LOVE Virginia State Parks, so when visiting Virginia Beach, we knew that we'd have to visit First Landing State Park. Entering inland from Shore Drive, you first come to the Park Office/ Contact Station. Here, you need to pay the required fee of $7 for parking, and envelopes are provided to self-pay if the ranger isn't manning the booth. We have an annual pass, so we continued to the Trail Center (TC) where there is plentiful parking, restrooms, vending machines, small shop/information from a ranger, and the trailheads for a few trails. We picked up a trail map, and decided that we would walk a little over 4 miles, starting on Long Creek Trail (trailhead is back on the entrance road), eventually walking along the edge of Broad Bay and Long Creek, then veering onto the connector Kingfisher Trail to get back to the Cape Henry Trail and back to our car via the Bald Cypress boardwalk. It was a perfect March day, with temperatures in the mid-60s with a gentle breeze. The trails were well-maintained, and we encountered quite a few people out for strolls or walking their dogs. There are quite a few benches in strategic and picturesque locations, especially along the water -- so we enjoyed a picnic lunch while enjoying a view of the water. The trails are mostly flat, and easy to navigate. You are often walking on pine needles, or sand, or gravel. There is sometimes the sound of airline jets in the distance.
First Landing is one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Virginia that offers swamplands, marshes, hardwood forests, and, every so often, a touch of magic. It's my most often visited park in Virginia Beach. There's a phenomenon that can only be described as a swamp rainbow appearing over the marshy waters during different times of the year. These swamp rainbows are a rare occurrence, yet just like the rainbows that appear in the sky, they're absolutely breathtaking. Today I had the luck of the Irish to experience this phenomena. The rainbow effect occurs because of the natural oils released by decaying vegetation (conifer needles) The decomposing pine in the water release tannic acid and a thin film forms on top of pooled water in swamps and marshes. When the sunlight hits it at a certain angle, you can see the gorgeous multi-layered colors. If you look at the water in a shadow, it appears to be normal swamp water. But, on a sunny day, you can see the rainbow viewing from an angle. The water also needs to be still for a long period of time for the rainbows to appear, any movement from sheet flow, wind disturbances, or current will "destroy the fragile rainbow film. The very cold conditions were perfect to see the brilliance. This phenomenon reportedly also happens at various swamps and marshes along the Eastern seaboard. (Florida, North and South Carolina). With sections still having a slight sheet of ice- the colors were not as vibrant, but still very, very cool to experience. Always recommend First Landing State Park anytime of the year.
We were looking for a place to take the doggoes and read about this park. It was $10 per car to get in and there is so much to do! There are tons of scenic hiking trails, as well as cabins here. However, we chose the beach since it was a nice summer day. The dogs are allowed on the beach here and everyone was having a ball! We will definitely be back with more friends and a picnic!
Great trails! Lots of good options that were easy to moderate hiking. The trails we took were mainly well shaded so it wasn't too hot. We enjoyed our time here! Bring some good comfy shoes. And wear good clothing. Bring some water and you'll be set! Check out the trial guide so you know where you're going and how long/how difficult your trail might be.
Stayed at this most visited State Park by Viriginia residents for three nights during early Spring. Water was a brisk/cold 64°. Although the beach (sand was clean, soft, sufficient in width) and park location was ideal for R&R, most sites were undeveloped and, most importantly, all did not have a sewer connection. Fortunately, bathrooms were impeccably clean and well maintained. read more
Three nights stay nestled along the Virginia Beach coast. Several short board walks lead to the beach. Late March so too cold for us to swim in the water. 25 minute drive to Norfolk AB's spent the day sightseeing. 10 minutes or so from the Virginia Beach action where we had a great meal. Food shopping and many restaurants near by. Electric and water hook up only. Our spot was 16. read more
First landing state park is one of the places that makes me happy to call Virginia Beach my home. It's absolutely beautiful and has many trails for all of your walks, runs, and bike rides. Lots of shade makes it a great spot for warm days. Staff at the trail center are very friendly and helpful! Definitely a must-do stop if you are visiting VB and if you're a local, well it will be your new fav spot! read more
6 months ago
Wildlife and trails galore. Even camping onsite. There is free parking and even though this is tucked away off the interstate, it is very calm and peaceful read more
21 days ago
This majestic park had some construction going on, but was perfectly accessible. It had nice facilities and an inland area as well as a stretch of beach. The inland area is a blackwater swamp that really feels like you're in the Deep South. I have to remind myself that there are no alligators in a place like this. There were some small turtles that were engaged in a frankly ridiculous duel (awfully hard for non-snapping turtles to actually injure each other). The aesthetics were nice, the trails abundant, and I wrapped up with a sunset on the beach looking out towards the bridge, albeit with some sandflies as there wasn't a ton of wind on the day. The sense of history as well as the fascinating range of natural sites made me glad that I spent money on a Virginia state park pass. read more
11 months ago
A really beautiful setting along the Virginia coast. There's a large number of dunes, filled with birds, hermit crabs and a wide variety of plant life. The water feels warmer than it does at Virginia Beach. Very peaceful place to catch some rays read more
2 years ago
First Landing State Park is easily one of the best spots in Virginia Beach to get outside and enjoy nature. There are so many trails to choose from, whether you're looking for a long run, a scenic bike ride, or just a casual walk. The park hugs the inlet, so you get beautiful water views along the way. One of the best parts about this park is that it truly has something for everyone. If you want to run 14 miles through the woods, you can. If you'd rather take an easy one mile stroll along the beach, that's an option too. The variety makes it perfect for any mood or energy level. I bring my dog here all the time, and he absolutely loves it. There's plenty of space for him to explore, lots of shade, and always something new to sniff. It's a great spot for a peaceful morning walk or an active day outside, even post snow storm! Parking is easy, and the park is well-maintained. There's a small fee to enter, but it's worth it for how much there is to do. Whether you're a local or just visiting, First Landing is a must if you love the outdoors. Beautiful scenery, well kept trails, and the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. I never get tired of coming here! read more
3 months ago
For starters, even though the address is Virginia Beach, this state park is on the coast of the Chesapeake Bay. The advantage is that it's not crowded. That being said, it's a state park so there is a fee to park here. $7 on a weekday, and $10 weekends April - October. My friend lives down here so she has an annual pass. Parking was almost at capacity when we went. It's a dog friendly beach, but there's a fee for that too. I'm not sure if you are supposed to keep your fur baby on a leash, but I don't care if they behave. It's lovely here. Not crowded like Virginia Beach. You can actually have a relaxing day at the beach. They have changing/bathrooms here. Picnic tables not far from the beach too. It's near a military training center, so don't be alarmed if you see a flyover. It may be noisy at times too. read more
2 years ago
I've visited this state park for years and make a point to get out here for a hike every time I'm in Virginia Beach. I've checked out the campground and would love to do an overnight campout, but so far that's still on the 'to do' list. The hiking here is great!! There are no steep inclines but the views of the wetlands and woods are really spectacular. Their website says the trails go through, "cypress swamp, salt marsh, maritime forest, freshwater wetlands, dunes, and bay shoreline." We're told that in the colonial era, pirates hid out here when the authorities wanted to chat with them!! On my last hike, we saw a cottonmouth snake lounging in a swamp! Wow!! Stay on the boardwalks and trails!! Don't poke the bear or snake. This is a great state park and offers lots of great options for campers and hikers. We will be back next time we're in the area. read more
We camped in the park for three nights and had a wonderful time. The staff when checking in were great. The sites are amazing. Very private and large sites. An easy walk to the beach and a beautiful setting. It was really nice to see that the VB buses came into the park and were available to see around the city. The camp store was nice as well. We had a wonderful time! read more
We LOVE Virginia State Parks, so when visiting Virginia Beach, we knew that we'd have to visit First Landing State Park. Entering inland from Shore Drive, you first come to the Park Office/ Contact Station. Here, you need to pay the required fee of $7 for parking, and envelopes are provided to self-pay if the ranger isn't manning the booth. We have an annual pass, so we continued to the Trail Center (TC) where there is plentiful parking, restrooms, vending machines, small shop/information from a ranger, and the trailheads for a few trails. We picked up a trail map, and decided that we would walk a little over 4 miles, starting on Long Creek Trail (trailhead is back on the entrance road), eventually walking along the edge of Broad Bay and Long Creek, then veering onto the connector Kingfisher Trail to get back to the Cape Henry Trail and back to our car via the Bald Cypress boardwalk. It was a perfect March day, with temperatures in the mid-60s with a gentle breeze. The trails were well-maintained, and we encountered quite a few people out for strolls or walking their dogs. There are quite a few benches in strategic and picturesque locations, especially along the water -- so we enjoyed a picnic lunch while enjoying a view of the water. The trails are mostly flat, and easy to navigate. You are often walking on pine needles, or sand, or gravel. There is sometimes the sound of airline jets in the distance. read more
4 years ago
First Landing is one of the most beautiful state parks to visit in Virginia that offers swamplands, marshes, hardwood forests, and, every so often, a touch of magic. It's my most often visited park in Virginia Beach. There's a phenomenon that can only be described as a swamp rainbow appearing over the marshy waters during different times of the year. These swamp rainbows are a rare occurrence, yet just like the rainbows that appear in the sky, they're absolutely breathtaking. Today I had the luck of the Irish to experience this phenomena. The rainbow effect occurs because of the natural oils released by decaying vegetation (conifer needles) The decomposing pine in the water release tannic acid and a thin film forms on top of pooled water in swamps and marshes. When the sunlight hits it at a certain angle, you can see the gorgeous multi-layered colors. If you look at the water in a shadow, it appears to be normal swamp water. But, on a sunny day, you can see the rainbow viewing from an angle. The water also needs to be still for a long period of time for the rainbows to appear, any movement from sheet flow, wind disturbances, or current will "destroy the fragile rainbow film. The very cold conditions were perfect to see the brilliance. This phenomenon reportedly also happens at various swamps and marshes along the Eastern seaboard. (Florida, North and South Carolina). With sections still having a slight sheet of ice- the colors were not as vibrant, but still very, very cool to experience. Always recommend First Landing State Park anytime of the year. read more
We were looking for a place to take the doggoes and read about this park. It was $10 per car to get in and there is so much to do! There are tons of scenic hiking trails, as well as cabins here. However, we chose the beach since it was a nice summer day. The dogs are allowed on the beach here and everyone was having a ball! We will definitely be back with more friends and a picnic! read more
Great trails! Lots of good options that were easy to moderate hiking. The trails we took were mainly well shaded so it wasn't too hot. We enjoyed our time here! Bring some good comfy shoes. And wear good clothing. Bring some water and you'll be set! Check out the trial guide so you know where you're going and how long/how difficult your trail might be. read more
Beautiful park with trails, beaches, and campgrounds. There are multiple entrances and boat access too. Great place for family portraits, which was the reason for our most recent visit! Parking (in November) was $7.00, they do take credit cards for those of us who don't carry cash. We went to the 64th street entrance (which is also the boat access entrance) off Pacific Avenue - once you get past the sentry, there is more parking at the end of the windy road if you want to be parked closer to the water! It's definitely dog friendly, the trails are manageable for a flat walk with your pup. read more
This is such a beautiful park! My friend was visiting from Hawaii, so we had a mini reunion with other gals we had lived with on the island who are currently stationed here as well. We had all met on the trails on Oahu. Naturally, the first thing she asked us when we were showing her around the area was, where the trails were. I had heard about First Landing State Park and our other friends suggested the same thing, so we decided to hit the trails in this park as a throwback to the good ol' days. There are two sides to the park, the Visitor Center side by the beach and the Trail Center side is the inland side. We chose the shortest trail at a little under 2 miles to make it a quick one since dinner time was around the corner (a girl's gotta eat LOL). The trail is super well maintained with walkways. The trails on the ground are covered with pine needles. You can see lots of wildlife like turtles and snakes (oh my!). One of the cooler things we saw is the swamp rainbow phenomenon. I heard it's more distinct and more intense in November, but we saw lots of little patches peaking through (see pics). I'm definitely coming back with my kids. They have been eager to hit the trails too so I think this is perfect to get them back into the hiking kick. I saw campgrounds and water stations. Camping there must be fun! Parking is self parking on an honor system. They have a price list at the entrance at the hut with envelopes. The fees help maintain the park! Can't wait to explore more with my kids. They will love it. Stay safe, Friends! read more
3 years ago
We are very frequent visitors of First Landing State Park. I remember when it used to be called Seashore State Park lol. We now call it the locals beach aka The Narrows. You can access it via 64th street. You do have to Pay to enter as it is a State Park. During the summer you have to get there early if you want a good spot. I do like how they limit access and stop allowing people to come in once they reach their maximum so the beach is never really crowded. read more
What a neat little place, and right inside a busy beachy area! Even though the cabins are right off a main road, the noise was hardly noticeable! Somehow, even with the buildings all around, downtown areas within a few minute drive, you still feel like you are in the woods! If you're going just to I hike/bike, you better go early! I'm a big fan of off-peak beach season, but the trail center was full within the first few hours of opening. While the cabins don't have a beach view, they do offer a quick walk to see the bay, complete with boardwalks, gorgeous sunsets, and cypress swamps, complete with Spanish moss! Very diverse natural areas! The camp store has all the basics, and Food Lion is right down the road, so you are never far from what you need! Take advantage of the firewood and enjoy! Also, super pet friendly, so the dog was able to come along and enjoy! read more
I'm a local and grew up biking and hiking Sea Shore State Park now called First Landing. Always a wonderful park. The trails are very well marked and they are very well kept and clean. This is always at the top of my list to recommend to people. Great parking area with public restrooms. A lot of times we hike or bike with a small backpack and take food and drink and find a sweet spot on the tail to have a mini picnic. Please be sure NOT to leave any trash behind. Fun for all ages. We have done scavenger hunts before with my young niece and nephew. And you and pick and choose what trails to take. My family loves to workout at the workout areas. We challenge each other. My husband always wins. This park has a lot to offer. We have also participated with events in past years and camping on the beach side. So many adventures and a lot of fun for our family over the last 50 years. You will have to check it out and make your own memories and adventures in First Landing State Park. read more
5 years ago
Going to the beach is something that's always on my mind as it's my safe place my place to chill and wind down my place to have my thoughts and always one of my adventure places. Coming here was totally random and totally amazing as all I really wanted to do was just chill by the water and get my feet wet and that I did for a good while I might add! Something I found super cool here was the amount of crustaceans that were on the sea shore wondering about digging holes in the sand as each wave passed by that's something that was just awesome as I've never seen this many at once over and over again and I grew up on the California beaches. On my given morning here it was kinda windy but it was all good as it was just peaceful all around like you really couldn't have gone wrong. Overall this is a very chill spot with a lot of beach who knows when I'll get here again but I felt it was only right to put me feet in the water on the first landing point! read more
6 years ago
We visited this beautiful park during our trip to Virginia Beach. It's very large and has miles of walking trails as well as beach access and camping. We walked down to the beach area first to see the views. The water was too chilly for swimming, but there weren't many people out and about so it was a gorgeous view for sure. After the visiting the beach side, we went over to the walking trails and enjoyed walking the trails through the woods. It was mostly shaded and most sections are pretty easy to walk; just occasional hills here and there for the ones we did. The trails are clearly marked so you can figure out which way you want to go and which trails you want to intersect with. This lovely park is worth a visit if you're in the area! read more
1 year ago
We rode our bikes on the Cape Henry trail today. We entered at the 64th Street entrance, riding bikes from our hotel on Virginia Beach. The trail is a firm surface and nicely maintained. It's a wooded and swampy area on the sides of the trail. It's a nice ride but we did encounter two snakes on the edge of the trail. We passed multiple other bikes and runners on the trail. I'm glad we rode here. We enjoyed the ride and views. I think it's wise to maintain awareness of the things that live in this environment and keep an eye open for snakes to avoid getting too close if you encounter. read more
1 year ago
No better way to get out of the house than to go on a walk! Nice, cool Saturday walk for lunch. I enjoyed the various paths, though I wish they included the length of the trail on the plated wooden poles. We just went wherever the wind blew us, but I also noticed that a lot of the trails intertwined. Nice scenery and our path was nothing too extreme, quite casual. $7 dollars but can go up to $10. I'd suggest parking all the way towards the back which is where many trails begin and the information building is there. No access except to the bathrooms. Worth a visit or fresh air! read more
2 years ago
Love this place, family favorite for many many years. Get a site in the middle of the park to beat the summer heat after being on the beach all day. Restaurants and food near by in addition to oceanfront tourist attractions. read more
You pay for parking. Wanted that to be the first thing ya'll read lol. It was $10 to park today but it was labor day weekend....not quite sure if that's normal or bc its the holidays. I don't know what I don't come here often...it's beautiful! They have restrooms available. An outdoor shower area to rinse off those sandy feet's. They have kayaking available. Dogs are more then welcome! And it's not as crowded as the ocean front. They have a dumpster area to discard all your trash post snackages. I would suggest to come early. Claim your perfect spot and just enjoy! read more
This is a fantastic state park with some beautiful hiking trails. I recommend to the cape Henry Trail. Staff are extremely friendly and helpful. Clean public bathrooms at the trail Center. $8 entry fee but it's well worth it. read more
2 years ago
6 years ago
This is a great state park in Virginia. My uncle and aunt took us here, to see the sunset, as they live in the area and always visit this park, to watch the sunset. It was a beautiful view. Though I am not familiar with the Virginia Beach area, when we were driving to the park, it seemed as if we went through a neighborhood to get to the main entrance, making it more hidden than I expected. Then once inside the park, my uncle drove towards parking area by the water, where there were still quite a few people who were boating and fishing. In the area where we were by the water, there were docks where people could load their boats and fish. There was also a walking trail that gets you all around the park, which is where I'd like to go if I visit this park again, to see the trees and swamps. Overall, this was a nice place to visit for a nice sunset view. I can see why this state park is loved by many of the locals. read more
7 years ago
Perfect spot on an overcast, 75 degree Saturday to take-in nature's beauty, connect with history, and celebrate our extended family's incredible mothers. Entry at the main entrance off of Shore Dr was $10 per car ($7 on weekdays); Visa & MC accepted. There are two parking lots shaded by trees, close to the trail center that offers gender specific restrooms, a vending machine, maps, benches, picnic area, park volunteers, and human/pet friendly water fountains. Our group mistakenly chose the longer 2.8mi trail (Red Cyprus is only 1.5mi) but conquered it with 17 people...and a hitchhiking lizard. Path was mostly lined with well packed pine straw which made it easily navigable; couple of bridges and strategically placed benches made for a nice change of pace here and there. Gotta love being one with the outdoors, hearing indigenous sounds while getting exercise. Saw a few turtles, lizards, several birds, squirrels and a snake too. read more
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More info about First Landing State Park
2500 Shore Dr
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Directions
(757) 412-2300
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/fir.shtml
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Outdoor Amenities
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Ask the Community - First Landing State Park
Is it good for camping?
Yes! There are two sides of the park. One side is for camping and the other is for walking trails. I hear nothing but good things about this park and it's camp grounds.
Is there any access to the actual Atlantic or just the Chesapeake?
Just the Chesapeake.
How strictly is the proof of rabies vaccination enforced? I'm arriving from out of state with an old dog that can't have a rabies vaccine due to a compromised immune system. This is likely his last trip... I'd hate to leave him home.
No one checked our dog so chances are you are fine. In fact the fee collection station was empty.
Review Highlights - First Landing State Park
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