The park's unique 'bald cypress' swamps are rare at this latitude and are officially designated as a National Natural Landmark.
It is historically significant as the 1607 landfall site of the English settlers who established Jamestown.
The park contains the protected 'Narrows' area, a popular spot for kayaking and watching sunset reflections.
The landscape encompasses rare inland dunes and peat bogs, which are unusual for a coastal Virginia environment.
During the American Civil War, the area was used by the Confederate military to defend the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay.
The park's diverse topography includes seven distinct ecosystems, making it a hotspot for local biodiversity.
The trails connect directly to the Virginia Beach trail system, allowing for extensive regional cycling.
Many of the park's cabins and structures were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression.
First Landing State Park occupies 2,888 acres along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay in Virginia Beach. It is the most visited state park in Virginia, featuring 1.5 miles of beachfront access. The terrain includes diverse ecosystems ranging from bald cypress swamps and freshwater wetlands to maritime forests. The park contains over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails, including the Cape Henry Trail which connects to other regional paths. It serves as the historic landing site for the English colonists of the Virginia Company who arrived in 1607 before moving to Jamestown. The park facilities include boat launches, picnicking areas, and overnight camping accommodations. The protected environment provides habitat for diverse bird species, including osprey and heron.
The boardwalk section overlooking the bald cypress swamp at the Trail Center.
Bring insect repellent during warmer months as the marshy, wooded areas are prone to mosquitoes.
Utilize the designated kayak launch at The Narrows to explore the calmer waters of the Broad Bay area.
Park in the designated lots near the beach entrance early, as these spaces reach capacity quickly on summer weekends.
Attempting to swim in the marshy 'Narrows' area, which is intended for paddling and wildlife viewing rather than recreation.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive wetland ecosystems; keep pets on a leash at all times.
