Road Trips Starting from Chesapeake, VA
Best National Parks Near Chesapeake, VA
Found in the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia three hours northwest of Chesapeake, Shenandoah National Park is a peaceful retreat from the stresses of city life. The park is home to a stretch of the well-known Appalachian Trail, which visitors can explore. The park is an excellent destination for hiking, backcountry camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing and horseback riding.
Congaree National Park is in South Carolina six hours southwest of Chesapeake, surrounding the mighty Congaree River and featuring many of the tallest trees on the east coast. The park frequently holds educational hikes and tours, giving visitors a great chance to experience and learn about the park. There's also a regular Owl Prowl event, which teaches attendees about the fascinating owls and other nocturnal creatures inhabiting the park.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park has the distinction of being the only national park in Ohio. The diverse park, eight hours and 35 minutes northwest of Chesapeake, is home to 100 waterfalls, rolling hills, dense forests, rivers, wetlands and ravines. Many people visit the park every year to explore the 125 miles of scenic hiking trails; go kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in the river; or utilize the peaceful setting for picnicking or stargazing.
Popular State Parks Near Chesapeake, VA
Located a half-hour northeast of Chesapeake, First Landing State Park lies on the shores of Chesapeake Bay and is the oldest and most popular state park in Virginia. The park is an amazing place to observe wildlife with creatures like herons, turtles, dolphins and foxes inhabiting the area. Visitors can also utilize the nearby bay for fishing, boating, swimming and kayaking.
Merchants Millpond State Park is found in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, 52 minutes southwest of Chesapeake, and comprises 3,296 acres of lush swamp forest. There are nine miles of beautiful trails in the park that are perfect for hiking and biking, and visitors may be able to spot alligators, bobcats, mink, otters and other cool creatures.
Known for its exceptional natural beauty, Chippokes Plantation State Park covers 1,947 acres on the banks of the majestic James River, an hour northwest of Chesapeake. The park is home to many unique features, including an antebellum mansion, formal gardens, the remains of the Jamestown colony and an active archaeological dig. In addition to checking out these sites, visitors can enjoy some quality fishing opportunities in the James River.
Must-see Monuments and Landmarks Near Chesapeake, VA
One very well-known Virginia landmark is Colonial Williamsburg, where you can get a chance to experience what life was like in the 1700s. The site, which is an hour northwest of Chesapeake, features over 300 acres of historic buildings with costumed reenactors and fascinating tours available.
While in the area, you should also visit the Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum with buildings recreated to replicate the original settlement from the 17th century. There are also reenactors and recreations of three ships that brought the colonists to America.
If you find yourself in Richmond, you should consider stopping by the Richmond National Battlefield Park Civil War Visitor's Center. Here, you can learn more about the Richmond area's fascinating history specifically regarding the American Civil War. If you're a history buff, it's a must-visit attraction.
RVshare’s Top Picks for Nearby RV Parks & Campgrounds
Many quality campgrounds are in the Chesapeake area. One example is North Landing Beach RV Resort & Cottages, which boasts 160 RV campsites available for $51 per night. It is 40 minutes southeast of Chesapeake. Most of the sites have full hookups, and the campground's amenities include a pickleball court, a playground, an arts and crafts center, and a recreation hall.
Davis Lakes RV Park and Campground, a half-hour southwest of Chesapeake, has RV sites with 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups available. Guests can make use of a swimming lake, a fishing lake, a fish-cleaning station, a bathhouse, a kids' area and a laundromat.
If you're looking for affordable camping, Northwest River Park & Campground in Chesapeake is a perfect choice. You can rent one of the 66 full-hookup RV campsites for only $21 per night. The park offers conveniently close opportunities for boating, fishing, camping and hiking.
RV Dump Stations Near Chesapeake, VA
Chesapeake, VA, located in the heart of coastal Virginia, offers a variety of beautiful landscapes and opportunities for beachside camping and fishing. To make your RV trip more convenient, we've compiled a comprehensive list of RV dump stations spread across Chesapeake, including both free and paid options, with details on addresses, hours, and costs. When you're ready, search for RV rentals in the Chesapeake area, book your spot at a top RV campground, and find the perfect storage facility for your RV.
