Take This 170-Mile Road Trip To See Virginia's Most Beautiful Coastal State Parks
By Beth|Published January 05, 2022
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Beth
Author
A lifelong Virginia resident, Beth loves exploring different parts of the world and currently resides in Charlottesville. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains.
The Virginia coast is a treasure trove of natural beauty. One of the best ways to experience this unique landscape is by visiting a coastal state park. These gorgeous natural spaces are filled with educational opportunities, beautiful trails, and scenery at every turn. That’s why we were inspired to create a road trip that will take you to some of the most beautiful coastal state parks in Virginia. The following itinerary features four unique parks, each with something special to offer. Ready to start exploring?
1. False Cape State Park
False Cape State Park, 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USA
Our beautiful coastal state park road trip begins at False Cape State Park, the southernmost park in Virginia. Situated between Back Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, it's one of the last remaining wild spaces on the coast. To visit False Cape is to experience the landscape of many generations of residents that have come before: Native Americans, the residents of the lost community of Wash Woods, and Little Island Coast Guard Station. If you have time for some adventures, kayaking is a popular choice. There's also primitive camping available for those looking for a rustic overnight adventure.
Next up on the itinerary is First Landing State Park, the most popular of its kind in Virginia. First Landing is named in honor of the settlers that arrived here in 1607. Of course, these travelers were hardly the first to navigate the waterways. Native American tribes lived on the landscape for centuries beforehand. The park is remarkable for its cypress swamps, live oak trees, Chesapeake Bay shorelines, and boardwalk trails. Whether you're looking for a swim, a hike, or a spot to picnic, you'll be glad you spent time exploring this special natural area.
Welcome to Belle Isle State Park, one of the crown jewels of Virginia's Northern Neck. Featuring seven miles on the Rappahannock River, this park consists of tidal wetlands, forests, and farmland. As you can imagine, there's also a lot of wildlife to be observed around here. You may even spot a bald eagle! Recreational activities include biking, camping, kayaking, fishing, and hiking.
4. Westmoreland State Park
State Park Road, State Park Rd, Virginia 22520, USA
Last but certainly not least, Westmoreland State Park concludes our coastal state parks road trip through Virginia. This lovely park is also situated on the Rappahannock River. This state park is especially fun for families, offering a range of adventures from swimming to fossil hunting for ancient shark teeth along the shoreline. For a breathtaking view of the water, be sure to visit Murphy Hall, which is dramatically situated on top of the cliffs.
What are your thoughts on this road trip to the most beautiful coastal state parks in Virginia? Is this a trip you’d consider taking? Let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear your thoughts! Looking for another fun road trip itinerary in Virginia? Check out our road trip to the most charming attractions on I-81.
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