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4.8(1666 reviews)

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

4005 Sandpiper Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, United States

Plain-text version · Virginia Beach (plain text)

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About This Campsite

Welcome to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge

Nestled in the serene coastal wetlands of Virginia, the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers an immersive nature experience for visitors of all ages. This wildlife refuge is a sanctuary for flora and fauna, providing miles of trails for hiking, walking, and biking. Whether you're yearning to observe wildlife, enjoy a peaceful beach walk, or explore miles of secluded coastline, this park is a splendid escape from city life.

Visitor Information & Tips

  • The refuge is well-maintained with accessible areas for different mobility levels, though some areas may not be suited for all visitors.
  • Entrance to the refuge is $5 per vehicle, while bikers and hikers are admitted for free. National park passes are accepted.
  • The refuge is open from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. Pets are not allowed during your visit.
  • Preparations are essential: bring bug spray, sunscreen, food, and water, as there are no facilities for purchasing amenities inside.
  • Amenities are limited; the visitor center has selective hours and bathrooms may not always be available.
  • If you plan on kayaking or canoeing, bring your own equipment. There is a launch area near the main parking lot.

What to Expect

Visitors can revel in the rich biodiversity, spotting diverse wildlife such as birds, rabbits, turtles, and fish. The refuge’s untouched beaches provide a rare chance to connect with nature, reminiscent of times before extensive development.

Overall Thoughts

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a delightful retreat into the wonders of nature, perfect for families, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Despite some limitations on amenities, the tranquility and natural beauty make it a destination worth visiting. Always be prepared with necessities and be mindful of the natural environment to ensure a pleasant visit.

Photos

Photos provided by Google

Reviews

Reviews provided by Google

John Hannan

07/14/2024

This is an emersive experience with nature in the protected Virginia coastal wetlands. With the exception in one area, intentional littering, the property is well maintained and is inclusive to visit for everyone. Not all, but many areas are mobility friendly. This is a great place to visit with the whole family. There's plenty of hiking trails, flora, and fauna to observe. We saw rabbits, rodents, turtles, snakes, birds, crabs, and insects. So bring bug spray. There's not much shade, so bring the sunblock or appropriate attire. The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle. All national park passes are accepted here, or you can even purchase one at the entrance. Bikers and hikers are admitted in for free. It's opened a half hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset. No pets or animals are allowed on your visit. You can enjoy walking, biking, or hiking with miles of trails. You can visit the coastline without swimming. On the back bay side, you can bring your own kayak, canoe, or paddleboard to enjoy while being responsible to the environment. There's a launch area just off the parking lot by the handicap parking spaces. There's a welcome center with artifacts and info when open. You'll find the only parking and restrooms here. All trails start from this central location. We visited during a rain storm, so many pictures have puddles. Also, bring all essentials with you. You will not find food, drink, or gas to buy once inside. Get out and explore.

Brian j

05/13/2024

Wonderful gem of a remote beach. Very uncrowded but we went in early May. Pristine beaches and you get a sense of how things were before development. Nice place for an easy hike or beach walk. Only downside was the limited hours for the visitors center and locked bathrooms. I'm sure it's better when things get busier.

Serena Liao

04/02/2024

We biked to False cape state park from here, didn’t have time to walk around and the visitor center wasn’t open on our visit, but we had a great time in the nature. The ride to the Wash Woods is long (with kids) and MTB or fat tire is definitely recommended. The visitor center of False Cape is open everyday, which is nice, limited space but kids were excited about getting the Jr ranger badge. Today’s highest was 76F, which felt hot in the marshland with no shade, so wouldn’t do in the summer time.

RickAndZoesBigAdventureTime !

03/16/2024

Love this place. Great easy hiking/walking for the whole family. Great boardwalks, bathrooms, and other park amenities. Whenever we get the chance to make it out this way, we always stop in. I've never had to pay a fee to get in, which makes it all the better. Always a great time. 10/10 highly recommend. **As with any park or preserve, watch for snakes!!! See pictures!!!**

Violet Hairr

03/20/2024

So beautiful and they have more than just a port a potty (important for me) saw fish jumping and beautiful sunset (on the bay side) the place is pretty active especially near sunset(don't blame them and it was a beautiful day)

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge — the United States's Camp Guide