Kiptopeke State Park, Cape Charles

The Chesapeake Bay is a vast and vibrant ecosystem that has witnessed the dawn of man, the birth of a nation, and the perpetual evolution of civilization. Today the Chesapeake Bay watershed spans more than 64,000 square miles. It encompasses parts of six states—Delaware, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia—and the entire District of Columbia. More than 18 million people live in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Kiptopeke State Park is a state park located on the southern end of the Eastern Shore of Virginia at the mouth of the Bay. From 1949, the site was owned by the Virginia Ferry Corporation and used through 1964 as the northern terminus for the Little Creek-Cape Charles Ferry service. Since the building of the Kiptopeke Ferry Landing in 1948, 33 acres of coastal dunes have naturally developed within the 562 acres of maritime forest and coastal plains that make up the park.  Where once only salt water existed, today you can travel a boardwalk through this vibrant ecosystem which contains 2 freshwater habitats, native plants such as marsh mallows and cattails, freshwater reptiles and amphibians, native grasses and fruiting bearing plants. The park has a number of recreational amenities, including yurts which are half tent half cabin. The park also offers recreational access to the Chesapeake Bay as well as an opportunity to explore unique migratory bird habitat along the flyway. It also has 5 sun-filled lodges that sleep up to 16 people and 4 new cabins, as well as RV, tent, and group camping. For kayakers, boaters, and fishermen it also has a kayak launch, boat ramps and a lighted fishing pier.

Lovely park. Was there to tent camp to explore the area and fish. Did some trail walking and some fishing. Campsites were clean and the staff at the office was very friendly and helpful. The pier is really cool too check out and had good fishing and crabbing. Will be coming back again to stay and fish in the spring hopefully for years to come

State parks in Virginia are the best place to have fun with your family. We happened along one state park by accident 4 years ago and now have been to every state park in Virginia. Very secure very safe and very beautiful.

$5 parking unless you have a VA state park pass (available online or from any state park office). Bathrooms are closed in winter months but portables are available. Lots of walking trails, beach, boat ramp and fishing pier. Super quiet in off-season. Great for nature lovers, birdwatching, beach-combing, camping, fishing.

This is a nice park with beaches, walking paths, camping, boat launch, fishing pier and other facilities. You can fish here from the pier without a licence, though it will cost you $3 for fishing in addition to the $5 for parking.