False Cape State Park Barbour Hill Campground

Open — Open year-round with reservations required through 1-800-933-PARK. From November 1 through March 31, interior trails through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge are closed, restricting access to the beach route only. Same-day reservations are not accepted. Campers must be out of the refuge by dusk.

About

Barbour Hill Campground at False Cape State Park offers a true backcountry coastal camping experience in one of the last undeveloped areas along the Atlantic coast. The campground is divided into two sections: Barbour Hill Bay and Barbour Hill Ocean, located approximately 6.9 miles from Little Island City Park. Each primitive campsite accommodates up to four people and includes a tent pad large enough for two 2-person tents, a picnic table, and raccoon hangs for food storage. Access to the campground requires commitment and preparation. Campers must park at Little Island City Park and hike or bike through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to reach the sites. From November 1 through March 31, the refuge's interior trails are closed for wildlife management, restricting access to the beach route only. Potable water is available at three locations in the Barbour Hill area, including near the contact station and in the camping areas. Pit toilets serve the campground, and all trash must be packed out. The campground is positioned between the maritime forest and either Back Bay or the Atlantic Ocean, offering unique coastal ecosystem views. The nearby visitor center provides interpretive displays about the area's history as a former hunting club destination and the historic Wash Woods community. Campers must be out of the refuge by dusk when arriving and departing, and should prepare for biting insects in summer months, bring adequate water and supplies, and be aware of ticks and venomous cottonmouth snakes in the area.

Directions

Park at Little Island City Park in Virginia Beach. From I-64, exit onto Indian River Road East. Go 13 miles, turn left onto Newbridge Road, then right onto Sandbridge Road, then right onto Sandpiper Road to Little Island City Park. From the parking area, hike or bike 6.9 miles through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to reach Barbour Hill campsites. Beach access available year-round; interior trails open April 1 through October 31 only.

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