State Parks and National Parks

Kiptopeke State Park

Kiptopeke State Park is one of the most popular public accesses to famous Chesapeake Bay.

The 560-acre park, named after the Accawmack Native American word "kiptopeke," meaning "big water," includes a half-mile beach, large fishing pier and campground. It also is the site of a U.S. Fish and Wildlife bird-banding station.

Roughly 400 yards offshore, a series of concrete ships built by the government during World War II rest half submerged. Today, they attract large fish populations, including saltwater trout, rockfish and flounder. The park's boat ramp provides anglers with access to this area.

The park has 141 grassy campsites located in a wooded area near the shore. The shore features a swimming area during the summer and is popular among surf fishermen.

A 1,500-foot fishing pier is open round-the-clock during camping season (March 1 through the first weekend in December).

In the Raptor Research Area, hawks, osprey, kestrels and other birds of prey are observed and banded from September to November. The park is known for its excellent fall birding programs.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.