First Landing State Park
About
Virginia's Most Visited State Park - 2,888 Acres
First Landing State Park is Virginia's most-visited state park - 2,888 acres of maritime forest, cypress swamp, and 1.5 miles of Chesapeake Bay beach. Site of the first English colonists' landing in 1607. National Natural Landmark.
What Kids Can Do
Twenty miles of trails for hiking and biking - Bald Cypress Trail is the family favorite passing through cypress swamps on boardwalks. The Visitor Center has hands-on natural history exhibits and Junior Ranger packets. 1.5 miles of sandy Chesapeake Bay beach for swimming, sandcastles, and shorebird viewing. Cabin and campground for overnights. Pirate legends interpretive programs in summer [marked: alligator-watching from Bald Cypress Trail boardwalk - dogs prohibited for safety].
What's Included
Day-use $5 per vehicle. Visitor Center, trails, beach, Junior Ranger packets all included. Camping, cabin rentals, and special programs priced separately.
Experience
Plan 3-5 hours. Almost entirely outdoor - bring sun protection, water, swimsuit for beach, bug spray. Stroller-friendly main trails. About 8 miles north of downtown Virginia Beach off Shore Dr.