Northampton County, Virginia
Kiptopeke State Park
State park
The park occupies the site of a former ferry terminal, with a sandy bay beach, a long fishing pier and the rusting concrete fleet used as a breakwater offshore. It is a major hawk migration watching point.
Why Visit
Calm bay swimming, excellent fishing and one of the East Coast's best raptor migration sites make it worth the drive down the Eastern Shore.
Amenities & Facilities
- Bay beach
- Fishing pier
- Campground and cabins
- Boat launch
Things to Do
- Swim at the bay beach
- Fish from the pier
- Watch fall hawk migration
- Camp near the bay
Best For
Beachgoers, anglers and birders on the Eastern Shore.
Parking & Visiting
Parking is available in designated lots. Fees, hours and seasonal closures change, so confirm current details with Virginia State Parks or the park's managing agency before visiting.
Nearby Communities
- Cape Charles
- Cheriton
- Cape Charles Beach
Related Attractions
- Cape Charles Beach
- Eastern Shore National Wildlife Refuge
- Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
- Cape Charles Museum
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kiptopeke good for swimming?
Yes. The park has a calm bay beach with lifeguards in season, which is gentler than the ocean beaches to the south.
What are the concrete ships at Kiptopeke?
They are World War II-era concrete cargo ships sunk as a breakwater in 1948 to protect the ferry harbor.
Seasonal Note
Trail conditions, beach staffing, boat rentals and road access change with the season. Confirm current hours and closures with the managing agency before you travel, especially in winter and early spring.
