First Landing State Park | Virginia Beach

First Landing State Park, located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, is a sprawling natural preserve and recreational area encompassing nearly 2,900 acres along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. It is Virginia’s most visited state park, renowned for its remarkable combination of ecological diversity, historical importance, and extensive recreational opportunities. The park’s unique landscape offers a variety of habitats including maritime forests, cypress swamps, sandy dunes, and tidal lagoons, making it an exceptional destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historical Context

First Landing State Park is historically significant as the site where the English colonists made their initial landing in 1607 before continuing on to establish the Jamestown settlement. This foundational moment in American history marks the park as a cultural landmark. The park was formally developed as Virginia’s first state park in the 1930s, with considerable work done by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which helped build trails, shelters, and other facilities that still contribute to the park’s infrastructure today. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated as a National Natural Landmark, reflecting both its historical and environmental importance.

Natural Environment and Ecology

The park’s 2,888 acres are a mosaic of diverse ecosystems, making it a sanctuary for a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Visitors can experience:

Maritime Forests: Dense, lush forests dominated by oak, pine, and other native species. These forests provide habitat for numerous bird species, mammals, and insects.

Cypress Swamps: One of the park’s most unique features is its bald cypress swamp, where towering cypress trees grow directly in the water, creating a serene, mystical environment. Boardwalk trails wind through these swamps, allowing visitors close observation of this rare ecosystem.

Sand Dunes and Beaches: The park has approximately 1.5 miles of pristine sandy beach along the Chesapeake Bay. The dunes act as natural barriers, protecting inland habitats and supporting specialized plant life adapted to sandy, salty conditions.

Tidal Lagoons and Marshes: These wetland areas support a range of aquatic life, including fish, amphibians, and migratory birds, and are critical for maintaining local biodiversity.

Because of this ecological variety, the park is a popular spot for birdwatching, with over 270 bird species recorded, including migratory warblers, herons, and raptors.

Recreational Activities and Facilities

Trails: The park offers nearly 19 miles of multi-use trails suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Major trails include:

Cape Henry Trail (6.1 miles): The main trail running north-south through the park, showcasing diverse habitats and scenic views of the bay.

Bald Cypress Trail (1.5 miles): A loop trail featuring boardwalks through the swamp area, offering close encounters with cypress trees and aquatic wildlife.

Long Creek Trail (5 miles): Paralleling the Cape Henry Trail, this trail provides additional exploration of forested and wetland areas.

Beach Access: The park’s shoreline provides space for swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing, and picnicking. While there are no lifeguards on duty, the beach is a favorite destination for families and casual visitors seeking coastal relaxation.

Boating and Fishing: The park features a boat launch area at Narrows Creek, accommodating motorboats, kayaks, and canoes. Kayak rentals and guided paddling tours are offered seasonally. Fishing is permitted with appropriate licenses, attracting anglers targeting species like striped bass and flounder.

Camping and Lodging: First Landing State Park offers extensive overnight accommodations, including:

Campgrounds: Over 200 campsites with options for water and electric hookups. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and trailers. The campground is open seasonally from spring through fall.

Rustic Cabins: 20 cabins are available, each equipped with kitchens, screened porches, and heating. They provide a comfortable camping alternative while maintaining a close connection to nature.

Yurts: Four yurts near the beach provide a unique glamping experience with basic amenities but no electricity or running water.

Picnic Areas and Facilities: Designated picnic spots are scattered throughout the park, equipped with tables, grills, and restroom facilities, ideal for family outings and group gatherings.

Educational and Interpretive Programs

The park features the Chesapeake Bay Center, an educational facility developed in cooperation with the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center. This center offers exhibits on the natural history of the Chesapeake Bay region, the park’s ecosystems, and the historic 1607 landing of English settlers.

Ranger-led programs and interpretive trail walks are regularly offered, providing visitors with insights into the park’s flora, fauna, and history. These programs are especially popular with school groups, families, and nature enthusiasts.

Visitor Information and Access

Location: 2500 Shore Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23451, positioned conveniently near major highways and urban centers.

Hours: Day-use areas are open from 7 a.m. until dusk year-round. Overnight areas remain accessible 24 hours when open. The visitor center and park office typically operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Fees: Entrance fees vary by day and vehicle type, generally around $7 on weekdays and $10 on weekends for standard vehicles. Additional fees apply for camping and cabin rentals.

Accessibility: Several trails and facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities, including boardwalks and accessible restrooms.

Summary

First Landing State Park is a remarkable blend of natural splendor, historical resonance, and recreational diversity. It preserves one of America’s foundational historical sites within a richly varied ecological setting that supports a wide array of wildlife and plant species. The park’s well-maintained trails, beaches, and camping facilities provide excellent opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, boating, and wildlife observation. Educational programs and interpretive centers deepen visitors’ understanding of the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. This combination of attributes makes First Landing State Park a cornerstone of Virginia Beach’s outdoor and historical attractions, drawing over a million visitors annually to experience its unique charm and legacy.