False Cape is Virginia's most remote state park. It is located on a barrier spit in Virginia's outer banks south of Virginia Beach. The park is situated between the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to the north and the state of North Carolina to the south. The park borders the Atlantic Ocean on the east, and the Back Bay to the west. The terrain is pretty flat, and elevations average around 10 feet or less above sea level. There are some sand dunes, however, that reach to 50+ feet above sea level.
There is no public vehicle access to False Cape State Park. Getting there is a mini adventure itself. The only public access to the park is by hiking, biking, or boating in. One may enter from North Carolina, but that requires a 12 mile beach hike that can only be done at low tide. You may also boat in across the Back Bay, and there are several boat docks on the west side of the park. The most popular way to False Cape, and the way I went, is to hike (or bike) in from the north by passing through the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. There is no overnight parking at Back Bay, adding to the challenge of camping at False Cape. Please also note that, while pets are allowed in False Cape State Park, you cannot take them through the Back Bay. If you plan to visit False Cape with your dog, your only option is to boat in. The tidal schedule is critical to a visit to this area. Hike the beach only at low tide. While it is still passable at high tide, you would be forced up next to the dunes in deep, soft sand, making your progress slow and difficult. Many of the trails in the area are hard packed or gravel surface roads, perfect for biking. Many other trails though are difficult sandy surfaces. Plan your routes accordingly. False Cape State Park is not recommended for children or anyone with chronic or serious health conditions. I had no cell service at my campsite but a limited signal could be found in some areas. The Barbour Hill area (Visitor Center) is the ONLY source of drinking water anywhere in the park. Plan accordingly.
In this first episode of the trip, I leave my vehicle in Sandbridge, Virginia, and hike through the Back Bay refuge to False Cape State Park. Of course I check out the sights along the way. I get to camp and get set up, and take a short night hike after dinner.
On day 1, I logged 10 miles of hiking. This is a multi part series of videos, and they will be a little long, but jam packed with the awesome sights of some amazing coastal wilderness and some incredible solitude. At first glance, you might think that a "beach" adventure is highly unusual for Smell N Roses. You would be correct; however, the remote location and difficult access makes it right up my alley. I hope you enjoy the videos. Thanks for watching!
Trails Used:
Sandpiper Road (public)
East Dike Trail
Dunes Trail
Marsh Ridge Trail
Barbour Hill Trail
Sand Ridge Trail
False Landing Trail
Wood Duck Overlook Trail
Maple Leaf Trail
Beach Front
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