First Landing State Park is one of the many Virginia State Parks that we have. It is located off Shore Drive in North Virginia Beach and covers 2,888 acres. On the property there are areas for swimming, hiking, bike riding, boating, fishing, camping, picnic areas, a playground, and fire pits. Weekday visits cost only $4.00 per car, and weekends are only a dollar more. Leashed pets are allowed. During the summer the parking fee is $5.00 on weekdays and $7.00 on weekends and holidays.
We visited as part of their First Day program. Every year as a way to encourage people to get out and get active, the state parks open their gates for free. At 72 degrees, we couldn't say no to a day outdoors.
There are several hiking trails ranging from .4 miles to 6.1 miles, from easy to moderate. Some trails are marked only for hiking while others allow both bikes and hikers. If you've got a stroller, check the biking trails for paved paths. At the trail center they have a tiny museum with displays of some of the animals and plants that you could find on the trails and a gift shop.
If camping is your thing, check out their affordable deals on campsites. A standard campsite for a VA resident is only $24.00 without electric and water hookup, and $35.00 with it. Cabins can be rented for $784 for a week or $131 per night during prime season, cheaper for off season. We recently went to a wedding in the amphitheater which was beautiful and a great way to burn some energy!
