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.

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

3 out of 5
3900 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is NT$5,635 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
NT$5,635
NT$6,540 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Virginia Beach. Enjoy free WiFi, 3 outdoor pools, and 3 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,022 reviews)
"Many activities for family"

Reviewed on 2025/8/1

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG
Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection

3 out of 5
1101 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
The price is NT$3,541 per night from Sep 2 to Sep 3
NT$3,541
NT$4,132 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
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! (1,049 reviews)
"Nice beds, simplest room,great location, no on location parking but within walking distance of literally everything….housekeeping strange way of doing things….had to ask for towels everyday multiple times….all in all pretty good experience."

Reviewed on 2025/8/2

Surfbreak Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Ascend Hotel Collection
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$4,088 per night from Sep 2 to Sep 3
NT$4,088
NT$4,762 total
Sep 2 - Sep 3
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 ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,204 reviews)
"Likes: Front desk staff Option for late checkout and allowed to temain parked on premises until 3PM to enjoy beach and or pool. Dislikes: Housekeeping is only every three days Sand builds up in the room from the beach - a broom in the toom would be great for the tiled poetuon and bathroom. The elevator ..."

Reviewed on 2025/8/1

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Virginia Beach (Oceanfront), VA
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! (1,416 reviews)
"Property was conveniently located within walking distance of the beach and boardwalk. Would be really good option for families looking to use kitchen and dining as the apartment like setting was ideal for the circumstance. In general, the hotel is somewhat outdated & decor was lower quality. Compared ..."

Reviewed on 2025/7/28

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! (1,407 reviews)
"Fantastic, very professional"

Reviewed on 2025/8/2

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! (1,108 reviews)
"Mr. Fae, the front desk receptionist provided exceptional customer services. Although, I did not reserve reservation he patiently assisted me with booking my room through the website. We had a beautiful stay and staff was helpful and friendly. No problems with parking and we felt comfortable and ..."

Reviewed on 2025/7/30

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