Visiting False Cape State Park is like stepping back into history 100 years ago before people flocked to the white sandy beaches of the East Coast. From the early 1900s until the 1960s, 4,321 acres along Virginia's oceanfront down to the North Carolina border were privately owned, beautiful desolate white sandy beaches with 20' dunes and one of the East Coast's best waterfowl hunting grounds. In the 1960s, the state acquired this maritime forest along with the Wash Woods Environmental Education Center that was once home to a number of prestigious hunt clubs.

Today, False Cape State Park remains as one of the last undisturbed coastal environments on the East Coast. It is a mile-wide barrier spit between Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and the Atlantic Ocean. The only access to the park is through Back Bay, which is limited seasonally to hiking, biking and boating.

The pristine wildlife area has a huge migratory bird population and a variety of wildlife, plants and trees. Wash Woods Environmental Education Center is one of the East Coast's premier opportunities for small school, youth or scouting groups.

The park acquired its name in the 1800s because shippers believed it to be Cape Henry thus leading them into shallow waters resulting in numerous shipwrecks. A tiny community called Wash Woods is the result of such a wreck. Evidence of Wash Woods is still prevalent on the park grounds. A graveyard and church steeple are located a short distance off a trail and the visitor with a quick eye is likely to see a feral pig. Pig tracks are commonly spotted in the sandy trails.

Recreation
Because False Cape is landlocked on the southern end of the Back Bay Refuge, vehicular access is prohibited. Day visitors must either hike or bike through the refuge via the interior trails or the oceanfront. Boat access is through Back Bay. Each year, the interior hiking and biking trails are closed from November 1st through March 31st. However, the Back Bay Restoration Foundation operates a tram that leaves Little Island City Park and terminates at Barbour Hill contact station allowing visitors to explore the area for one hour. Primitive camping is permitted at False Cape but reservations are required. Drinking water is available at three locations and in each camping area. However, be prepared to take plenty of drinking water along with insect repellent for the trip in. Several pit toilets are provided. The park does interpretative programs along with special programs in conjunction with the Virginia Marine Science Museum, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Saltwater fishing is allowed and hunting is permitted only during special seasons. Ocean swimming is permitted. Picnicking is limited to a couple tables at Barbour Hill. The park is haven to many types of wildlife including waterfowl, poisonous cottonmouth snakes, feral pigs, white-tailed deer, wild ponies and fox.

This park is about 30 minutes south of the Virginia Beach oceanfront. Virginia Beach is a bustling commercial tourist attraction offering enjoyment and variety for both families and singles. The sandy beach and boardwalk is very inviting and offers a variety of entertainment. The boardwalk area has attractive evening lighting and is well patrolled making an evening stroll very pleasant. The boardwalk is also very popular with in-line skating; however, skateboarders are prohibited. Virginia Marine Science Museum, Norfolk Naval Air Force Base, First Landing State Park and Old Cape Henry Memorial are just a few of the other popular recreational opportunities available.

Location
From I-64, take the Indian River Road East exit. Go 13 miles, then turn left onto Newbridge Road, then right onto Sandbridge Road. Turn right again onto Sandpiper Road which leads to Little Island City Park. If coming from First Landing State Park or Atlantic Avenue (the ocean front) head east onto Shore Drive (Route 60); follow Pacific Avenue to General Booth Boulevard, then left on Princess Anne Road and left again onto Sandbridge Road. Turn right onto Sandpiper Road which takes you to Little Island City Park. Parking fees required Memorial Day to Labor Day at Little Island City Park. Day use only parking is available at Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. There are restroom facilities, picnic facilities and ocean access from Little Island City Park. From Little Island, head west into Back Bay. At the park's contact station, 5 miles through the refuge, the hiker or biker may pick up brochures and a detailed map of the trails.

Climate
Virginia generally has mild winters and warm humid summers. The eastern portion of the state has winter temperatures averaging above 36 degrees Fahrenheit (2 degrees Celsius). The state's summer temperatures have little variation. The eastern portion of Virginia generally experiences temperatures above 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 Celsius). High humidity along with warm temperatures can be uncomfortable.

Address
4001 Sandpiper Road
Virginia Beach, VA 23456

Phone: 757-426-7128

Email: pco@dcr.state.va.us

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