Before planes, trains, and automobiles, travel by boat was the most common. Being a coastal state, Virginia was the destination for many a trip across the Atlantic. Unfortunately, however, not all such trips were successful. Due to the rough and unpredictable Atlantic waves, many ships met a tragic end at sea. Remnants of one such shipwrecked settlement can still be seen today in the haunting and abandoned ghost town of Wash Woods at False Cape State Park. Continue reading to learn more about this tragic yet fascinating history.

False Cape State Park is a positively beautiful destination located in the southeasternmost region of Virginia.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
The name "False Cape" alludes to the fact that it much resembles Cape Henry, which is twenty miles north. Misguided ships would often sail into these too-shallow waters only to run aground.
Taber Andrew Bain / flickr
Though the exact history is unknown, legend has it that one such shipwrecked group waded ashore and decided to make their village here centuries ago. Thus the community of Wash Woods was born.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
The settlement used cypress wood that washed ashore from another shipwrecked schooner in 1895 to create a church, school, grocery store, and lifesaving station.

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At the peak of its popularity, the settlement was home to 300 residents. However, due to rising ocean tides, the town was deserted by the 1930s.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
Despite its beauty, it's hard to deny the haunting history of this region. It wasn't long before False Cape gained its reputation as the Graveyard of the Atlantic because of its shallow waters and rough weather.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
For those interested to experience this region, it's possible to hike, kayak, and camp at False Cape State Park.
Virginia State Parks / flickr
For more information about planning your visit, you can click here.

Did you know about the Wash Woods Settlement at False Cape State Park? Have you explored this area of Virginia? If so, we’d be curious to hear about your adventures! Feel free to leave a comment below. And while you’re in the area, you might also be tempted to explore Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge — a true hidden gem in Virginia.

False Cape Park is a bit difficult to get to, but fortunately, Virginia State Parks has put together a wonderful overview of the area as well as its history. Watch the footage below for an in-depth guide!

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False Cape State Park, 4001 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USA