Kiptopeke State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Kiptopeke State Park is a beautiful area on Virginia's Eastern Shore, which provides access to the Chesapeake Bay. The name means "big water" in the indigenous Algonquian language. Water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming attract visitors from all over the country. The 562-acre park was explored by Captain John Smith in 1608. From 1949 to 1964, this was the site of the Little Creek-Cape Ferry that connected lower Chesapeake Bay with Hampton Roads and Norfolk. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel eventually replaced the ferry.
Spring 39 - 73 F
Summer 67 - 85 F
Fall 43 - 79 F
Winter 32 - 52 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Kiptopeke State Park
The Kiptopeke State Park Campground features 138 pet-friendly campsites suitable for RVs up to 40 feet in length. Electric, water, and sewer hookups are available, and each site has its own fire ring and picnic table. Amenities include restrooms, hot showers, and a laundry facility.
What to Do at
Kiptopeke State Park
Kiptopeke State Park has a boat ramp, a lighted fishing pier, and a swimming beach for those who love watersports. You can even rent a kayak during your visit. There are five miles of hiking trails to explore, beautiful picnic areas, and a playground for the little ones. Seasonal interpretive programs hosted by the park focus on bay ecology, birding, and natural history.
Fishing
Some of the state's best fishing is found along the concrete ships that are just off Kiptopeke State Park's waterfront. You'll also find a large lighted fishing pier in the park, which attracts fish. A small fee is charged for fishing from the pier, but you won't need a fishing license to enjoy this location. Keep in mind that those over 16 must register for the Virginia Fishermen Identification Program.
Nature Watching
Several bird species can be seen in the park as they migrate from Alaska and Canada to Central and South America. This includes falcons, hawks, warblers, shoreline birds, herons, and thrushes. A hawk observatory, the Kiptopeke Bird Watching Station, and a freshwater pond with two wildlife viewing blinds make viewing avian species easy.
Flora and Fauna
Park trails extend through upland hardwood and pine forests. You'll also see over 100 acres of scrub-shrub, which is a wonderful habitat for migrating birds. Foxes, deer, owls, and wild turkeys are also found within Kiptopeke State Park. You may even see a dolphin just off the shoreline.
Hiking
There are five hiking trails within Kiptopeke State Park. This includes the Brown Pelican Trail and Songbird Loop. Big Woods Trail is perfect for exploring the woods and viewing wildlife. The Southern Beach Trail is a beautiful place to hike at sunrise. As you stroll through the park, you'll find several convenient boardwalks that connect the Southern Beach Trail with the Bigwoods Trail.
Boating
Kiptopeke State Park's location on Chesapeake Bay provides visitors with some excellent boating opportunities. The park's boat ramp offers easy access to the fishing around the concrete ships. Kayaks and canoes are ideal for birdwatching and spotting the occasional dolphin. Kayaks are available for rent throughout the year.
Swimming
The park has two beaches on the Chesapeake Bay. The Northern Swim Beach is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day and stretches over a half mile. Pets, fishing, and boating are not allowed at the Northern Swim Beach, but you can enjoy these activities at the south beach.
Biking
Bike trails are found near the entrance road as well as along the Mockingbird, Chickadee, Raptor, and Songbird trails. Bring your own bicycle or rent one from the camp store.
How to Get to
Kiptopeke State Park
When coming from Cape Charles, go east on Randolph Ave./T-1112 towards Peach Street. In 2.3 miles, turn right onto US-13 S. In 0.2 miles, turn right toward Kiptopeke Drive. Turn left on Kiptopeke Drive in 100 feet to enter the park.
Entering Kiptopeke State Park
You'll find parking lots at the main entrance, near the boat launch, and by the Hawk Observatory. Accessible spaces are available. The park hours for day guests are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Alcohol is only permitted in private areas such as inside an RV.
Kiptopeke State Park Entry Fee (adult) : $5.0
Kiptopeke State Park Entry Fee (child) : $3.0
Frequently Asked Questions About Kiptopeke State Park
The best time to visit Kiptopeke State Park is during the summer season. The temperatures are warm enough to take advantage of the fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking found within the park.
Kiptopeke State Park is known for its birdwatching opportunities, especially during the migration seasons. While exploring the forest areas, you may see deer, foxes, owls, and wild turkeys. For birders, there are several observation areas.
Kiptopeke State Park has 138 designated RV campsites. These pet-friendly sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet in length, and each has a fire ring, picnic table, and nearby restrooms.
Half of the campsites at Kiptopeke State Park can be reserved up to 11 months in advance. The other half are assigned upon arrival. Camping fees range from $30 to $47 per night, depending on the location of the campsite.
Kiptopeke State Park welcomes pets, but they must be kept on a leash that's no longer than six feet at all times. The only area you cannot take your pets into is to the North Swim Beach.