If you and your pup are anything like me and Lady, you prefer exploring places that go relatively undiscovered by the average traveler over visiting crowded tourist attractions. That’s why, when we have some downtime in Virginia Beach, we enjoy spending time at the quiet and tranquil First Landing State Park.

Located on Cape Henry in northern Virginia Beach, this 2,888-acre natural escape is home to miles upon miles of immersive hiking trails and one of the best dog-friendly beaches in the state.

The next time you’re on the coast of Virginia, here’s why you and your furry best friend won’t want to skip spending a day at this historic and beautiful park.

Brief History of First Landing State Park

Before the first English settlers of Virginia navigated through the rivers to the Jamestown site, they anchored on the shores of Cape Henry near the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. Hence the name, First Landing State Park!

Here, they made for land and gave thanks for a safe journey after spending four long months at sea. The next day, Captain Christopher Newport and his crew went ashore to explore the new land. They recorded findings such as freshwater ponds, fair meadows, and immensely tall trees. The land was named “Cape Henry” after King James’ eldest son.

3 Fun Things to Do With Your Dog in First Landing State Park

1. Hiking

With over 19 miles of dog-friendly trails to explore, you and your pup could spend an entire afternoon traversing through the park’s six habitats and disconnecting from the outside world.  

Along the way, you’ll encounter the natural flora and fauna of ecosystems like cypress swamps, maritime forests, and bay shoreline. You may even encounter some of the region’s fascinating wildlife.

Lady and I have trekked the First Landing State Park trails numerous times, and these are the ones that we’ve grown to love the most:

• Bald Cypress Trail: If you start your journey from the Trail Center, this will be one of the first trails you’ll encounter. The 1.5-mile loop winds through the park’s cypress swamps and includes a few uphill and downhill climbs to get your heart pumping. There are also several docks that stretch out over the swamps so you and your pup can stop to catch your breath or simply admire the scenery.
• Osprey Trail: Located in the southern section of First Landing State Park, the Osprey Trail runs along the tidal beaches. Lady and I love being by the water, so this route is one of our personal favorites. There are many sections of the trail that are perfect for stopping to snap a few photos. Keep in mind that some parts of the trail can flood during high tide, so plan your trip accordingly!
• Cape Henry Trail: Stretching a total of 6-miles, this is First Landing State Park’s longest trail. It meanders all the way from the northern border of the park to the Narrows at the southern tip. During your journey, you’ll pass through some of the area’s most tranquil forests, cypress swamps, and salt marshes. At the southern end of the Cape Henry Trail, many hikers/bikers opt to make the short trip to Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront! Keep in mind you’ll have to cross some busy streets to get there, so mind the traffic and keep your pup close.

Ready to plan your own adventure? Take a look at the First Landing State Park Trail Map and be sure to bring it with you during your visit.

2. Enjoy a Beach Day

If you’re looking for a more laid-back and less crowded alternative to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, look no further than First Landing State Park’s Chesapeake Bay Beach!

Not only is this shore free of high-rise hotels and hordes of tourists, it’s also open to dogs all year round! Lady loves a good beach day, and this is one of her favorites due to the gentle ocean surf and other pups that stop by to introduce themselves.

As for me, I enjoy getting cozy in my beach chair with a good book and watching the sailboats cruising through the bay.

There are four boardwalks throughout the park that will lead you over the sand dunes and onto the beach. If you’re not staying at the First Landing State Park campground, the boardwalk from the main parking lot is the one you’ll want to take.

You’ll also find a public restroom and showers adjacent to the parking lot. They have everything you need to enjoy a full day on the beach!

3. Go Camping

There’s no better way to escape the distractions of our everyday routines than a good old-fashioned camping trip. Luckily for you and your dog, First Landing State Park is home to over 200 pet-friendly camping sites and cabins!

The camping/RV sites can be found nestled within the dunes of Chesapeake Bay Beach while the cabins are located right across the street within a peaceful wooded setting. Whether it’s just you and your pup or you’re planning on bringing the whole family along, you’ll find a place to stay that is perfectly suited to your group size and needs.

Campsites are available from March 1st until early December and come with a picnic table and fire/grill ring. If you want access to water and electricity during your stay, be sure you reserve a spot at the regular sites instead of standard.

For your convenience, there are also numerous bathroom/bathhouse facilities, a small laundry facility, and a camp store that sells a variety of camping supplies.

The fully furnished cabins are perfect for families and available for rent year-round. Each cabin has two bedrooms, AC and heat, a fireplace, screened-in porch, and an outside grill. After a fun-filled day spent in the park, you and your pup will be able to come back and unwind in your own rustic oasis.

First Landing State Park Admission and Hours

For day guests, the park grounds and trails are open from 8 a.m. until dusk. Overnight guests are welcome to wander the park whenever they desire.

Day Admission: $4 per vehicle on the weekdays and $5 on the weekends.

Annual Pass For All Virginia State Parks: $66

Campsites: $24 to $32 per night plus additional $5 for dogs per night, per pet.

Cabins: $94 to $139 per night plus additional $10 for dogs per night, per pet.

***

In my own humble opinion, spending a peaceful day at First Landing State Park beats out the hustle and bustle of Virginia Beach’s Oceanfront any day. If you plan on visiting the park soon, what are you looking forward to the most? Let us know in the comments!

While you’re in the area, why not make the trip to Williamsburg? Located approximately an hour from Virginia Beach, this fascinating city is the world’s largest living history museum and filled with exciting things for you and your pup to enjoy together!