False Cape State Park

The east and west dike paths are best on bike, since I learned the hard way that my round-trip was over 10 miles and mostly on gravel roads. The scenery is gorgeous and there were some waterfowl but not much else. The gift shop at False Cape has lovely bathrooms and water refill station, in addition to a line of rocking chairs out front. The path to the ocean is dirt for a bit then deep sand, but there is a bike rack on the left just before the primitive campsites; if you bike, I recommend chaining up there and walk to beach a little farther over dunes. Beach is lovely and has amazing seashells!

False Cape State Park offers beautiful and unique scenery, making it a one-of-a-kind destination. However, during our visit, extremely hot weather and biting insects made the bike ride in less enjoyable, especially for families with young children. While the natural beauty is undeniable, visitors should be prepared for challenging conditions depending on the season.

We kayaked into False Cape from the bay side of Little Island Park—challenging, but absolutely worth it. Paddling through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge was a highlight, with sightings of eagles, ospreys, otters, and plenty of other wildlife along the way. Camping at False Cape isn’t full-on backcountry, but it’s pretty close. There’s a ranger station and some basic facilities, but no fires are allowed and the bugs are no joke—come prepared. The reward? Six miles of undeveloped beach, 15+ miles of well-maintained trails, and the rare chance to see the sunrise over the Atlantic and set over the bay, all from the same patch of wild land. We didn’t make it to the Wash Woods historic site this time, but it’s at the top of our list for the next trip. Big thanks to the staff at the ranger station—they were incredibly helpful and friendly. If you're looking for a remote, peaceful, and wildlife-rich adventure just outside the reach of the city, False Cape delivers.

Love riding our bikes here, there is alot to see along the trails although I highly recommend a fat bike for the sand! We were able to ride our bike down to the border of N.C. and back.

Probably my favorite park in the VA system due to the remoteness. You can only get to the park via Hike, Bike, or paying for the guided tour on the tram. The trails though Back Bay are only accessible from April - Sept so after that you have to hike or bike to the park via the beach. Pretty easy if you have a fat tire bike eBike at low tide.

Amazing ride with an array of animals! The only downside was the horse flies!! They were the worst I have ever experienced. Highly recommend having bug spray (luckily, we did).

False Cape State Park is the least visited state park in Virginia due to its remoteness and lack of easy accessibility. Visitors have to work to get here, either by hiking, biking, or boating into the park, with the nearest parking area literally several miles away in Sandbridge, Virginia. For those who make the trek into this undeveloped natural coastal wilderness, you will have miles of Atlantic coastline practically all to yourself. You are also guaranteed to have a run-in with lots of wildlife, including many species of birds, turtles, snakes, marine life on the oceanside, and insects galore. Bring bugspray, sunscreen, and lots of drinking water, as basic amenities like potable water (and flushable toilets) are only available at the visitor center in the middle of the park. Do yourself a favor and tent camp on the beach, fall asleep to the sound of the crashing surf, and awake to a glorious sunrise over the vast Atlantic Ocean beneath an endless sky.

Camped here beginning of June with a group of 5 of us. We were on the beach side at campsites 12 and 13. Getting to the campsite: you do have to hike 7 miles (flat ground) to get to the campsite. The trail is very bike friendly so I recommend biking if you have the means. You can either walk on one of the Dikes or on the beach. We walked on the West dike (only one is open at a time). Most of it is not shaded up until the end. Campground: well-maintained and campsites were very private. The toilets are pit toilets but they are about as nice as pit toilets can get. Note of caution: the light is a motion sensor light in there and turns off after a couple seconds which can make your restroom experiences…interesting in the night. We camped at the campsite the first night and on the beach the second night. Camping on the beach was really nice minus the biting flies there. Lots of them and they don’t care about bug spray. Park staff: most were friendly minus one guy. Other than the one, all rangers were knowledgeable and very nice. Bugs: so many of them!! I had probably over 100 bug bites by the end of the weekend. Bring lots of bugspray and sunscreen. They have drinking water, but I would still recommend bringing some purification tablets or a filter with you. I would also recommend bringing some collapsible water containers to fill up so you’re not walking back and forth so much to the spigots. They have a shower as well you can rinse off at. There is also a visitor center that has snacks, and whatnot plus real bathrooms and AC. Overall. Highly recommend! Just being bug spray.

False Cape is Fantastic. Great for Hiking, biking, and camping. I will say it is an easy hike for me BUT can be challenging because of the sandy parts. This is an out and back not a loop. We always park at National Wildlife Refudge and go through there. Views are Beaches and trees, forest and dunes, wild plants and wild life. Take plenty of water and sunscreen. A hat is always good. I take a day backpack when we go. Tick spray is also a great thing. I can't believe I have never written a review on False Cape State Park. We have had countless adventures hiking and biking. We prefer biking because hiking is a very long hike. There is a long stretch that is not shaded. It is a wonderful area. Very well kept. You can camp with a tent . If you get a camp site on the beach they also give you a second camp site just incase it gets super windy you can fall back to the second campsite. You can book all that with the park. OOO they also offer kayak tours too. I have not done the kayak tour through them but we are planning our kayak trip for this year. Again you book that through the park. They supply you with kayak, life vest and paddle. I think it is about 5 miles from Back Bay Wildlife Refuge to False cape State Park and a little further is the beach. Don't quote me on that. So a round trip on a bike is about 10 miles. And some of the trails around in False cape are so sandy we have locked our bikes at the gift shop and hike the sandy trails. There is a old historical grave yard and a church steeple on one of the trails that is a really cool walk. maybe about a mile round trip. I love the visitor center at False Cape. They have the nicest restrooms. They have snacks and drinks and a place to fill up your water bottles and If you want to get a cool tshirt or a beach towel or a refrigerator magnet they have that too. It is the prettiest visitor center and ALWAYS a friend staff inside to answer any questions.

False Cape-VA State Park. My 20th state park visit. I get a 20 park pin for this in the mail from VA State Parks. I'm a hiker not a biker. Today, I wish I was a biker. Only bikes and hikes are allowed thru the Back Water Bay Refuge, to get to False Cape. 3.5-4 miles from BWB Refuge.That just gets you to the official sign/entrance to the park. It's another couple miles to the Visiors Center. Then miles of actual trail hikes and enjoying the park. Then , don't forget all those same miles to get back to your car. (BWB Refuge review to come shortly) It was an interesting hike into and out of False Cape on BWB trail. I finally made it to the sign/entrance for False Cape. Sat down, gulped my water and headed back to the car. What was at first an overcast day turned into a hot mess with a severe storm opening up as my foot touched the parking lot to get in my car! I may have been a weeny to get to the entrance and turn around to go back but a smart weenie I was, because, had I been stuck on that trail in that weather with massive lightning and torrential rain, my life would have been at stake. No kidding, my foot hit the pavement and BAM! It was insane. I'm so glad I listen to my instincts. As long as that trail was, 7.5 miles out and back, total, I knew time was limited and I wouldn't let myself stop for longer than a couple gulps of water and a quick pour over my head. Maybe I can go back in the next years. Why 5 stars? VA State Parks are always an adventure! I went! I made it! And I got back to my car just in time! Most of my story is for BWB Refuge, in which, I just told half that story here! It's hard to separate the locations into 2 reviews! 5 Stars for False Cape. The Southernmost VA State Park.

I have been missing out! While looking on the Back Bay Wilderness Refuge site I found False Cape and thought it was pretty cool that the only way in from Back Bay is through bike or hike. We rode in from Back Bay the 4.5 miles or so via bike and found the tidy visitor center and restrooms which had recently closed for the day (the bathrooms are kept open). We took the 0.7 mile trail to the Atlantic Ocean and found a bike rack and a virtually deserted beach. Plenty of campsites covered with trees and shade were nearby and some camping on the beach is also allowed with permit. There are miles and miles of trails. We ran out of time but this was only a first visit! The gravel road in is easy to travel and well maintained. I will be back again and again! Beautiful park.

I am still in "awe@ over my day trip to this state/federal park, beach and camp ground. It is one of Virgo's best kept secrets. I went with a few of my sorority sisters. We rode our bikes to the beach. I kept asking myself why did I go to Costa Rica with access to a beach like this less than 3 hours away? The water was so clear. The sand was nice and clean. There was hardly anyone there. I didn't want to leave. I can't wait to go back on a romantic date or to camp overnight with friends.

One walks to this park through the neighboring wildlife reserve, which takes some time (unless you get a ride in, which seems to defeat the point and which didn't seem available when I dropped in). The predominant trails are gravel roads shared by occasional park vehicles, so it's not like you're trudging through the swamp. The scenery around is pretty impressive, and more diverse-from what I saw-than the wildlife reserve. While there was plenty of black water in this park, there was also some fairly thick forest. Surprisingly, there are actual facilities; even though the visitor center was closed for corona, the bathrooms with running water were still open. Signs nearby warn of cottonmouth snakes, and if you are Indiana Jones, I would recommend avoiding this park. One nasty-looking snake was blocking a path but I was fortunate to be escorted past it by the driver of one of the rare park-approved vehicles on the road. I also saw a fairly large snapping turtle and something that looked like a paddlefish, but unfortunately neither of them liked me very much and photographing things in dark water is not easy. I didn't get to anywhere near all of the sites, and it would take a full day or more to walk them, but the diverse topography, chirping birds, and pleasant sea breeze would make it a very nice day.

Living in Coastal Virginia has turned me into an "outdoorsy person." Having places like False Cape State Park within reach is a big reason for that. I visited yesterday for a 20-mile bike ride that took us from the Back Bay Wildlife Refuge through False Cape and down to the Wash Woods Settlement. The path was well maintained and not too bad to take on riding beach cruisers. Although several spots of soft sand required us to walk a few sections. Most of these were in the areas near the abandoned settlement grounds and indicated on the trail map. You can visit the site and check out the old church steeple and the cemetery with graves over 100 years old. They used to lay seashells on the graves like we typically do with flowers. The steeple has been preserved in a glass enclosure. Most of the ride is shaded. We didn't see any snakes, but keep your eyes out and keep your distance. The visitor's center was open for window service and even had a little bike maintenance spot. I can't wait to return to check out more of the Park! Next time we want to make it down to the NC border! Want to check it out too? Here is a helpful set of directions I copied from a website: False Cape State Park is located adjacent to the Sandbridge section of Virginia Beach, Virginia. There is no private vehicular access to the park. Directions to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge from Interstate 64.: Exit to I-264 East ( Towards the Oceanfront) Take Birdneck Road Exit (Exit 22) Turn Right onto Birdneck Road Travel Approximately 3-4 miles to the intersection with General Booth Boulevard Turn Right onto General Booth Blvd. Travel approximately 5 miles After crossing Nimmo Parkway, pay close attention to road signs. Get into the left hand lane so you can turn left at the next traffic light. Turn left onto Princess Anne Road at the light A 7-11 store is on the left at this corner* At the next traffic light, proceed straight through the light(middle lane). Note: When you have traveled through the light the road turns into Sandbridge Rd. A Bloom Grocery Store should be on your right when going through the light Follow Sandbridge Road until you enter the Community of Sandbridge Make a right turn onto Sandpiper Road just past the Fire Station Follow Sandpiper Road for approximately 4 miles. You will pass Little Island City Park on the left. The entrance to Back Bay NWR is at the end of Sandpiper Road

A beautiful must have place to visit. It's not over crowded and a great place if you love the outdoors. My favorite part is the ocean side. I love sitting by the water. Tons of people fish here. It's not for swimming but nice to put your feet in and look for shells. The bay side is nice too. Lots of wildlife to see. Bring some food and have yourself a nice little picnic

I am a pretty perseverant person and when I'm on a mission, in this case- geocaching there was no stopping me. No lack of preparation, no lack of others' failure to cover all bases for employee training or lack of knowledge of services provided by the parks/refuge stopped me. Not even the 8 mile plus bike ride round trip from Back Bay Refuge was going to deter me. After all, it's the things we work the hardest for which are the one things that are worth the struggle. Or so I hoped. It definitely was. If you enter False Cape through VA, please note you can ONLY hike or bike to get there. Or if you take the tram it's an actual tour that costs $8. Bring EXACT change or something they can exchange for less than a $50. Your best bet if you don't have anything smaller than a $100 bill go break that Benjamin at any of those stores before you reach Sand bridge, otherwise you won't be making the tram ride. Should you forget to break that change your last promising chance for change will be at the Sandbridge market which is the mini mart when you first make a right onto sandpiper. It's a LONG ways from the Back Bay gate ( 7 minutes drive if you're fast). The tram that leaves at 9am and returns back at 1pm will not drop you off to venture on your own like I originally thought. This was my fault to think so. I read it the way I wanted to interpret it subconsciously, which was the WRONG way. The visitor center is very clean and looks new. The employees that assisted us were friendly and nice. An older gentleman and a young lady. However, it was a bit frustrating because neither of them really had much knowledge of geocaching and use of their gps equipment. The young lady stated she just started two weeks ago. Save your money and just use your smartphone to geocache. Sprint seems to have better service out there than Verizon. If you go geocaching at FAlse Cape, I strongly recommend long pants. The brush out there gets dense and there are prickly plants that will tear you up, as well as poison ivy. Also watch out for snakes!

I have been to this beautiful State Park a few times over the years. Very relaxing and a nice place to hike. Remember to bring water and stay hydrated. It can get pretty hot. I love dragonflies so there were many subjects to chose from. Great place to bring your camera and just get lost among the little trails.

If you decide to take a break from busy life and you vacation in Sandbridge you will be able to lower the stress one notch down with the visit to tranquil and serene False Cape State Park. No need to go out too far, as the area at the entrance has a lot to offer. I felt that my progress in the park was reciprocal with number of flies landing on me so my pictures captures the beauty within a mile from the entrance. After 6 and before sundown the entrance is free.

It's a tough trek to get in here, especially if you're camping on the beach, but it's worth it. You can either hike or bike in, but be sure to park at Little Island City Park, just south of Sandbridge. There's no overnight parking at the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. If you choose sites 7-9, you can either camp inland or directly on the beach. On the night we stayed, we lucked into being the only people camping on the beach and it was gorgeous to watch the full moon rise with no one around for miles. Bring in water and food - no open fires are allowed so you'll have to bring a small camp stove or just energy bars and food that doesn't require cooking. Be on the lookout for water moccasins - they aren't aggressive but will bite if stepped on (although the park ranger told me they've never had a bite emergency there).

We didn't go too Deep in False Cape since we hiked in the Back National Wild Life Refuge. We had a late start, and knew our time was limited. First, start early and carry 2-3 bottles of water each. May not need it but if it's a hot day you will be happy you listened to Uncle Paul. You can refill at the well at Ranger Station but you will want to save it as your last resort. Trust me, you've had better water. It's not bad but you've had better. Second, campers why are you carrying all that gear down the beach? Enough said. Third, a bike is a good choice for this adventure. Fourth, from what we saw this place looks pretty cool and wish we had more time to see things. Have fun and be safe!

Hidden gem in the Va Beach area! My son and hiked over 15 miles total and had a great day. We saw 5 snakes, a coyote, and all the wilderness False Cape offers. Of note, we recommend definitely taking a bike instead of hiking. The wildlife refuge that's NOT included in False Cape's map adds an additional 7 miles (in and back) to your total trip. We were unaware and it off more than we could chew and had to turn back just before we got to see the old church and ship wreck. The gift shop/welcome center is amazing and the lady that works the front desk is very nice and knowledgeable. She gave us quite a few helpful hints as we continued our hike. We plan to go back soon with our bikes. Can't wait!

They don't take debit/ cards. And the attendant said there are tons of poisonous snakes..

Couldnt be better than this.

I hate to give away the secret of the best beach in the area, but here goes. I would guess that 99% of the people who live in Tidewater have never gone to False Cape. It is pretty out of the way, and you have to drive through Sandbridge and then hike 4 miles through Back Bay to get here. But one you are here the beach is all yours! I went beach camping here a few weeks ago on a weekend, no less, and after 4pm I didn't see another person (except the park ranger one time) until 10 the next morning. The mosquitoes come out in the evening when the sun goes down, so be prepared for that. If you go in the winter it is pretty much bug free. If you are looking for solitude, this is the place. Careful though, I have also accidentally startled some nude bathers in the past.!

Will only add to what other reviewers have said. We rode tram in from Back Bay, had a splendid driver/guide, and considered it an outstanding adventure that's was of a reasonable duration, 4-5 hrs. We saw lots of wildlife evidence and guide pointed out numerous useful plants. We take our guests from time to time. Definitely worth the time to visit.

Very nice park. Excellent facilities. Great picnic shelters for groups. Nice fishing pier. Good play set for young kids and killer beach. Highly recommend

I am just returning to the East Coast after many yrs out West. My biggest fear was not being able to find any remote beaches. I no longer have to look any further. Coupled with the fact that you can camp on the beach (make your reservations early as spaces are very limited) and when you do need a teeny dose of civilization you can get all you need from the Visitor's Center, this is now on our list of locales to frequent any time we can make it to this area. We are "allergic" to crowds so we were in heaven during our entire trip. p.s. The State Park's directional signage was great for the biking/hiking trails!

I'm a local Hamptom Roads resident. I absolutely love False Cape SP, along with Back Bay NWR for their solitude and wildness. One butts up against the other. Only in the SP are you allowed to camp, swim, sunbathe, etc. The NWR limits these activities, as wildlife is the priority there. However, one can go there, walk or bike along the beach or interior and not see another soul for hours. Literally, hours. Most folks youll see are on the north end, within a mile or two of the gate and visitors center, either fishing on the beach or bicycling the roads/trails in the interior of the NWR. Only the more adventurous and hardy go deeper into the nine mile long wilderness which ends at the NC border. The trails in the NWR are gravel. However, the trails in the SP turn to loose sand fairly soon after entering and quickly become suitable only for two legged transport. I have introduced several friends to this place. Invariably, we wind up refreshing ourselves with a skinny dip in the ocean. How wonderful! If you go, bring plenty of your own water, water and food. And water. The beautiful SP visitors center (4 miles from the parking lot) has some, but its limited. There is a well water hand pump in front of and across the road toward the south of the Visitors Center. The well water isn't half bad either. Nothing like some of the rock juice I've had from wells before. They will help you with free snacks if you get into a pinch for food to get you back to your car. Enjoy!

Love the remoteness and primitive feeling of this place. Took the historic tram tour and enjoyed every moment of it. The visitor center is new, clean, and well lit. Bring plenty of water and trail snacks if you are hiking.