Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, VA

Travel Guide

Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge featuring a sandy beach and general coastal views
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge which includes general coastal views
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge showing general coastal views
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge featuring tranquil scenes
Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge showing general coastal views, a sandy beach and fishing
Marvel at the diverse range of terrain in this vast lake-filled park and enjoy the serenity on the walking trails.

The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is a large park centered on a freshwater lake. It contains a diverse and picturesque topography, consisting of sand dunes, forests, ponds, marshes and a beach. Hike around the perimeter of the vast Back Bay waters to enjoy the tranquil and scenic environment.

Embark on some of the intriguing nature trails with your family or consider renting bikes for the trip. Climb aboard the tram that transports visitors around the refuge and to the nearby False Cape State Park.

Various plaques explain the ecosystems of the area’s animals and plants. Spot some of the interesting species that live here or migrate through the park, such as snow geese and tundra swans. Look for deer, horses and other wild animals.

The park contains a visitor center with educational displays and friendly staff. Go on a guided walk with a docent to spot animals and hear stories about the refuge. Make sure to bring enough water for the full time you’ll be on the walking trails.

Fishing is permitted in designated areas throughout the park, providing you have a license that complies with State of Virginia requirements. Gaze up at the skies to spot birds of prey, including bald eagles and hawks.

Note that the park was inaugurated in 1938 as an isolated section of Princess Anne County. It opens daily during daylight hours, while the visitor center opens from morning until late afternoon. There is a fee to enter the park in summer visit for free November 1 through March 31.

The Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge is near the border with North Carolina, about 20 miles (32 kilometers) south along the coast from Virginia Beach. Drive from the city to the park in about 40 minutes. Go to nearby landmarks, such as False Cape State Park, the North Landing River Natural Area Preserve and the Princess Anne Wildlife Management Area.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA

3 out of 5
1801 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is NT$3,827 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
NT$3,827
NT$4,462 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
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Reviewed on 2025/8/17

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

3 out of 5
1101 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NT$3,034 per night from Sep 14 to Sep 15
NT$3,034
NT$3,549 total
Sep 14 - Sep 15
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,078 reviews)

Reviewed on 2025/8/16

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection
Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center

Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center

3 out of 5
335 Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is NT$3,809 per night from Aug 25 to Aug 26
NT$3,809
NT$4,441 total
Aug 25 - Aug 26
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,004 reviews)
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Reviewed on 2025/8/15

Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

3.5 out of 5
315 21st St, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3.5-star aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour fitness center. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,427 reviews)
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Reviewed on 2025/8/14

The Atrium Resort, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort

3 out of 5
424 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
7.6/10 Good! (1,415 reviews)
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The Ocean Key Virginia Beach Resort
Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia

3 out of 5
2207 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Stay at this 3-star beach aparthotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,120 reviews)
"The property was very nice, great views. Staff was very friendly & helpful. We had an outlet stop working & they fixed it right away. The restaurant in the hotel is amazing we visited a few times. The only complaint we had was that the floors were really dirty. You had to wear shoes or socks at all ..."

Reviewed on 2025/8/15

Ocean Sands Resort, Oceanfront, Virginia Beach by Vacatia
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Cities near Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge