Kiptopeke State Park, Virginia is for Bird Lovers
Kiptopeke State Park for long walks on the beach...
Since 1963, Kiptopeke State Park in Virginia has been the site of bird population studies. According to their website: Volunteers capture, examine, weigh, band and release resident and migratory birds each year from mid-August through November. In the raptor research area, hawks, kestrels, osprey and other birds of prey are observed and banded from September through November. Kiptopeke’s hawk observatory is among the top 15 nationwide.
Famous for: That bird thing sounds pretty cool.
Admission: There are numerous fees for camping, cabins, picnics and swimming. The rates vary greatly by season and can be found at the Virginia State Park website.
Families with young kids will like: Swimming and fishing
Families with teenagers will like: Hiking and bike trails, bonfires
Other travelers will like: Birdwatching, canoe programs
Best hotel in the park: The park has a number of lodges that can cost over $200 per night.
Best campground in the park: Stay in a Yurt! It is a modern adaptation of an ancient nomadic shelter, combining a beautiful wood frame and durable, electronically bonded architectural fabric. Functionally speaking, it’s a cross between a tent and a cabin.
Best months to visit: October 7, 2010 through the 10th is their annual Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival. Admission is free.
Nearest major cities: Virginia Beach and Norfolk
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Photo courtesy of: Virginia Hiker