North Bay Shore Campground

north bay shore campground, north bayshore campground, north bay shore campground photos

For Virginia residents seeking an authentic and enjoyable outdoor escape that seamlessly blends proximity to coastal attractions with a serene, community-focused atmosphere, North Bay Shore Campground in Virginia Beach offers an exceptional choice. Tucked away on Colechester Road, this waterfront RV campground is a true hidden gem, providing a peaceful retreat while still being minutes from the excitement of the Atlantic Ocean beaches and the natural beauty of the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. It's more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it's a welcoming community where strangers can feel like family, as highlighted by satisfied campers. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of what makes North Bay Shore Campground a suitable and appealing choice for locals across Virginia, detailing its location, services, features, and how to best plan your visit.

The allure of a campground that goes above and beyond to create a memorable experience is undeniable. We understand that for many Virginians, finding a dependable and enjoyable camping spot that provides ample opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and a sense of belonging is paramount. North Bay Shore Campground appears to fulfill this need admirably. Reviews consistently praise the accommodating staff, the clean and well-maintained facilities, and the vibrant community events, such as celebrations with live bands and food. As one happy camper shared, it "felt like a community but we were complete strangers," emphasizing the genuine warmth you can expect. While some minor considerations like pool depth for toddlers or specific site features might arise, the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the staff, cleanliness, and overall atmosphere solidifies its reputation as a highly recommended destination.

Our goal is to equip you with all the essential information needed to consider North Bay Shore Campground for your next Virginia adventure. From understanding its diverse accommodation options to exploring the various activities available, we want to ensure you arrive well-informed and ready to embrace the coastal charm. Discover why this particular oasis in Virginia Beach could become your go-to destination for creating cherished memories amidst Virginia's stunning natural landscapes and vibrant local culture. We believe that such local treasures significantly enhance the quality of life for Virginia residents, providing accessible opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and a vital connection with both natural environments and charming nearby towns.

North Bay Shore Campground is conveniently located at 3257 Colechester Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USA. This prime address places it strategically on the waterfront, providing direct access to a small waterway that leads out to the beautiful Back Bay, which is part of the protected Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This unique location ensures a tranquil setting, away from the immediate hustle and bustle of the Virginia Beach oceanfront, while still offering easy accessibility to popular attractions.

For Virginia residents, reaching North Bay Shore Campground is straightforward. It's just a few miles from the scenic Sandbridge Beach, known for being a less crowded alternative to the main Virginia Beach oceanfront. Directions typically involve taking I-264 East to Birdneck Road (exit 22), turning right, and proceeding about 3 miles to General Booth Blvd. From there, turn right again and follow to Princess Anne Road, then left for about 1 mile to Sandbridge Road, and finally turning right onto Colechester Road until you reach the campground at the end of the road. This route ensures good road conditions for RVs and other vehicles.

The campground's proximity to various key points of interest significantly enhances its appeal. It's "minutes from the Atlantic Ocean Beaches by boat or vehicle," allowing campers to enjoy both the peaceful back bay waters and the lively oceanfront. The immediate surroundings, being "surrounded on the waterfront side by Wildlife Refuge That Can't be Developed," ensure a preserved natural environment, offering tranquility and opportunities for wildlife viewing right from the park. While it's in a low-lying area, meaning standing water could be an issue after heavy rains, its strategic location near Sandbridge Beach and the Back Bay makes it a highly desirable basecamp for exploring the natural and recreational wonders of the Virginia Beach area. This balance of quiet nature and convenient access to attractions makes North Bay Shore Campground a practical and highly desirable choice for Virginians looking for their next coastal adventure.

North Bay Shore Campground offers a wide array of services and amenities designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all types of campers, from tent enthusiasts to RV adventurers and cabin lovers.

• Diverse Campsite Options: The campground provides a variety of lodging, including 94 RV sites (with full hookups including water, electric (30 & 50 amp), and sewer), 10 tent sites (some waterfront, with picnic tables and fire pits), and 6 cabins (small and large, some with mini-fridges, microwaves, AC, and charcoal grills. Some cabins are pet-friendly, while others are not).

• Clean Bathhouses and Laundry: Facilities are consistently praised by guests for being "very clean and well maintained." The bathhouses are noted to have "good hot water with good pressure," AC, and fans, ensuring comfort. A "small laundry" room is also available.

• Swimming Pool: A "nice pool" is available for guests to cool off. Reviewers note it is "3ft at the shallowest part" with depths up to 5 feet, making it suitable for various ages, though parents of very young children should plan accordingly for appropriate swimwear.

• Boat Launch and Dockage: The campground features an "easy and clean" "boat ramp onsite" and "dockage available," providing direct access to the canals leading to Back Bay for fishing, kayaking, and boating.

• Recreation Hall / Game Room: An indoor recreation hall (sometimes called a game room) offers entertainment with amenities like foosball, pool (billiards), air hockey, and ping pong tables. It also includes cable TV with a sitting area.

• Camp Store: A "park store" is on-site, selling essential supplies, ice, refreshments, firewood (approximately $5 a bundle for 5 pieces), and bait, ensuring campers have access to necessities.

• WiFi Access: Free Wi-Fi is available at most sites, allowing campers to stay connected.

• On-Site Rentals: Jon boat, kayak, and canoe rentals are available, allowing guests to explore the waterways even if they don't bring their own equipment.

• Pet-Friendly: The campground is pet-friendly, though specific policies apply, especially for cabins. Reviewers note it's a great place for pets.

• Other Amenities: Picnic tables, fire pits, and grills are available at sites. There are also sports courts (volleyball, basketball), a playground with swings, and a dump station for RVs.

North Bay Shore Campground offers a compelling array of features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for Virginia locals, balancing relaxation with engaging activities and a strong sense of community.

• Waterfront Tranquility with Back Bay Access: The campground's location directly on a canal system that connects to Back Bay is a significant draw. This allows for excellent "freshwater fishing from our canals," kayaking, and paddleboarding directly from your site or the easy-to-use boat launch. Being surrounded by the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge ensures a peaceful, natural setting with opportunities for wildlife viewing, away from the city noise.

• Community-Oriented Atmosphere and Events: A standout feature, as highlighted by multiple reviews, is the campground's strong sense of community. Guests frequently praise the staff for being "accommodating" and creating an environment where "it felt like a community but we were complete strangers." Special events with "food and drinks provided and a live band" are a testament to their efforts in fostering a welcoming and engaging atmosphere.

• Proximity to Virginia Beach Attractions: While offering a quiet retreat, North Bay Shore Campground remains conveniently close to major Virginia Beach attractions. It’s "minutes from the Atlantic Ocean Beaches by boat or vehicle" and just a "few miles from Sandbridge beach," providing easy access to the oceanfront, surfing, sunbathing, and beach activities, including "free local beach parking" mentioned in a review.

• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: The emphasis on cleanliness is a consistent highlight. Reviewers commend the "very clean and well maintained" facilities, including the bathhouses that have "good hot water with good pressure" and are "climate controlled." This attention to detail significantly enhances guest comfort.

• Family-Friendly Amenities: With a swimming pool (3ft to 5ft depths), a playground, sports courts (volleyball, basketball), and an indoor game room featuring foosball, air hockey, and billiards, there's "lots for the kids to do," ensuring entertainment for all ages.

• Diverse Lodging Options: The availability of RV sites (full hookup and partial), tent sites, and charming cabins (including pet-friendly options) makes the campground versatile, catering to different camping styles and preferences.

• Responsive and Friendly Staff: The staff consistently receives high praise for being "good people," "very welcoming and accommodating," and going "above and beyond." This exceptional customer service contributes significantly to a positive guest experience.

As a professional content writer, I do not have real-time access to specific, ongoing, or flash promotions that North Bay Shore Campground might be running at this very moment. However, based on typical campground practices and publicly available information, North Bay Shore Campground frequently offers a variety of appealing deals and discounts. It’s always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current promotions.

Here are some types of promotions or offers you might typically find:

• Seasonal Discounts: Like many campgrounds, North Bay Shore Campground may offer varying rates or discounts based on the season (e.g., lower rates in off-peak months, or special packages during popular seasons like summer).

• Length of Stay Discounts: They often provide incentives for longer stays. Examples observed include:

  • "Summer Sale! - 15% Off - 3 Night Getaway" (requires a 3-night minimum stay).
  • "Summer Sale! - 25% Off - 7 Night Vacation" (requires a 7-night consecutive stay).
  • "Stay 5 Nights & Save 20% Off Weeknights" on cabins & campsites (requires a 5-night stay).
  • "Stay 7 Nights & Save 25% Off" on cabins & campsites (requires a 7-night consecutive stay).

• Military & First Responder Discounts: As a thank you for service, North Bay Shore Campground offers discounts for active duty, retired, and disabled veterans, as well as active nurses, police, and firefighters. These discounts are typically around 10-20% and require valid ID at check-in (e.g., "SALUTE" or "HERO" promo codes).

• AAA & Good Sam Club Discounts: Members of AAA and Good Sam RV Club can often receive a 10% discount on their reservations by using specific promo codes at checkout and presenting a valid membership card at check-in.

• Tent on RV Site Discount: A unique offer seen is an "$11 per night discount for tenting on a premium waterfront site!" or a "$10 per night discount for tenting on an RV Site" using a specific promo code (e.g., "TENT").

• Special Event/Holiday Packages: While specific details would vary, campgrounds like North Bay Shore, known for community events, might offer special packages around holidays or themed weekends that include activities or meals.

Remember that promotions often have specific terms and conditions, such as valid dates, minimum stay requirements, and exclusions for holidays. Always confirm details when booking.

For reservations, inquiries about site availability, cabin rentals, specific amenities, or to learn more about upcoming events and any current promotions at North Bay Shore Campground, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 3257 Colechester Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USA

• Phone: (757) 426-7911

It is highly recommended to contact the campground directly, especially for detailed questions about specific site features, pet policies for cabins, or to clarify any personal needs for your stay. The staff is consistently praised by reviewers for being "accommodating," "good people," and "very welcoming," ensuring a pleasant experience when planning your visit. You can also visit their official website for online booking, detailed site descriptions, and an events calendar. Planning ahead, particularly for popular weekends like Memorial Day, is advisable to secure your preferred spot.

North Bay Shore Campground in Virginia Beach stands out as an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for Virginia residents, offering a unique blend of coastal access, natural tranquility, and a vibrant community atmosphere. For locals, this campground provides an ideal escape that feels both like a genuine getaway and a welcoming home away from home. Its location on the waterways leading to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, anglers, and paddlers, distinct from the busier oceanfront, yet still conveniently close.

The true gem of North Bay Shore Campground lies in its ability to foster a strong sense of community, even among first-time visitors. The staff's dedication to creating a welcoming environment, complete with communal celebrations and live music, turns strangers into friends and provides an enriching experience beyond typical camping. This "community" feel, as highlighted by satisfied campers, makes it an inviting place for families and individuals seeking connection as part of their outdoor adventure.

Furthermore, the campground's diverse offerings, from full-hookup RV sites to quaint cabins and tent sites, cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. The clean, well-maintained facilities, family-friendly amenities like the pool and game room, and easy access to both freshwater fishing and saltwater beaches through its boat launch, ensure there's something for everyone. For Virginians, North Bay Shore Campground offers a convenient, affordable, and deeply rewarding opportunity to enjoy the diverse beauty and warm hospitality of their home state, making it a perfect choice for creating lasting memories by the shore.

North Bay Shore Campground

3257 Colechester Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, USA