Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park

Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park

You will find Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park in Virginia, administered as a unit of the National Park Service that protects structures, grounds, and stories of lasting importance. English colonists first landed here in April 1607, erected a wooden cross and gave thanks for a successful crossing to a new land. In 1781, Americans could watch from these same sand dunes the largest naval battle of the Revolutionary War.

Our French Allies defeated a British fleet just off this shore to set the stage for General George Washington's victory at Yorktown.

The historical park designation at Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park shapes everything from tour routes to building access. Ranger programs and wayside exhibits add depth; your pace determines how much you absorb.

Key Highlights

• Guided Tours
• Self-Guided Tours - Walking
• Ranger-led programs
• Visitor center exhibits
• Scenic photography opportunities

Getting There

Reaching Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park is straightforward once you know the route. Located on the south side of the Chesapeake Bay, Cape Henry Memorial sits within the Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. From Interstate 64 E take exit 282 to merge onto US-13N/Northhampton Boulevard towards the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Then take US-60 E/Shore Drive exit toward Beaches, this is the last exit before the Chesapeake Bay Bridge. Follow Shore Drive and turn left onto Atlantic Ave and proceed to Gate 8. Follow Atlantic Ave to Cape Henry Memorial.

By Car

Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car. Road conditions vary with weather and construction, so check the park's alerts page the day before you travel. Pay attention to GPS directions in rural stretches—some apps route drivers onto unmaintained service roads rather than the signed park entrance.

Nearest Airports

Regional airports provide the most convenient access for long-distance travelers. For the most current airline service and driving distances, cross-reference flight options with the park's contact page. Budget extra drive time from any airport, especially if you arrive after dark or during winter weather.

Public Transit and Tours

Direct public transit is limited at most National Park Service sites, but guided day tours and shuttles sometimes operate from nearby cities during peak season. Rideshare options are often reliable in gateway towns but may drop off outside the park boundary rather than at specific trailheads or visitor centers.

For turn-by-turn directions and current road status, consult the park's official directions page: http://www.nps.gov/came/planyourvisit/directions.htm.

Best Time to Visit

Weather shapes every visit. Spring: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 80 F. Rain is common. Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F. Rain and sun are equally common. On very sunny days, be prepared with plenty of water . Fall: Temperatures usually range from 40 F to 70 F. Winter: Temperatures range from 40 F to 20 F. Be prepared with cold weather gear and numerous layers if you intend to be outside.

Spring (March – May)

Spring is a pleasant time for walking tours of historic grounds, with cool temperatures and blooming trees softening the landscape around preserved structures.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is the busiest season, with the fullest slate of ranger programs, living-history demonstrations, and extended visitor center hours.

Fall (September – November)

Fall offers comfortable weather and thinner crowds, a good combination for photographing historic buildings and taking unhurried ranger-led tours.

Winter (December – February)

Winter is the quietest season. Some outbuildings or secondary sites may be closed, but the core experience is often available with a more reflective atmosphere.

Activities and Adventures

Activities at Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park reflect the character of the site. The options below are drawn from the park's current published list—confirm availability and any required reservations before planning around a specific activity.

• Guided Tours — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.
• Self-Guided Tours - Walking — schedules rotate seasonally; check the visitor center board on arrival for the current lineup.

Ranger-led programs are often the highest-value activity for first-time visitors, combining interpretation with access you might miss on your own. Check program schedules at the visitor center on arrival.

History and What to See

Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park is primarily a site of historical and cultural significance. Beyond the headline landmarks, the park preserves smaller details—inscriptions, outbuildings, period plantings, wayside exhibits—that repay an unhurried visit.

Interpretation and Programs

Ranger talks, living-history demonstrations, and self-guided audio tours bring the story to life. If your schedule allows, time your visit to catch at least one ranger-led program; the added context transforms what you see on the grounds.

Preserved Structures and Landscape

The National Park Service preserves the physical setting as faithfully as possible. Walking the grounds gives you a sense of scale—distances, sightlines, elevation—that is hard to appreciate from photos alone.

Research and Archives

Many historic sites maintain libraries, archives, or partnered research centers. If you have a specific interest, contact the park in advance; staff can often point you toward documents, oral histories, or special collections.

Lodging and Camping

Lodging strategy depends on how long you plan to stay at Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park and what you want to do when you are not at the park.

On-Site Stays

Overnight accommodations inside the park's boundary are limited or not offered here. Most visitors stay in nearby towns and commute in each day.

Gateway Towns and Nearby Lodging

Communities close to the park offer a mix of chain hotels, independent inns, vacation rentals, and—depending on location—bed-and-breakfasts. Several Virginia towns serve as convenient bases, with restaurants, fuel, and grocery resupply. Book well ahead for summer weekends and major holidays.

Operating Hours and Seasons

Cape Henry: Currently, Cape Henry Memorial is only open to those who have access to Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek – Fort Story. You must be able to provide a military ID.

This quarter acre of ground marks the approximate site of the first landing of the Jamestown settlers in Virginia.

Essential Information

Fees and Passes

No standard entrance fee is charged. Some special programs or partner-run facilities within the park may carry their own fees, so confirm before booking anything ticketed.

Contact

• Phone: 7578982410
• Email: [email protected]
• Official site: https://www.nps.gov/came/index.htm

Safety

Carry water, sun protection, and layered clothing appropriate for the season. Cell coverage can be spotty in parts of the park—download offline maps before you leave your lodging. In an emergency, dial 911 or contact the nearest ranger station.

Services and Accessibility

Main visitor centers typically offer accessible restrooms, interpretive exhibits, bookstore sales, and ranger assistance. Accessibility varies by building and trail; contact the park ahead of time to discuss specific needs. Pets are often allowed on leash in designated areas only—check current rules before bringing animals.

Regulations to Know

Drones are prohibited in nearly all National Park Service units without a special permit. Metal detecting, collection of natural or cultural objects, and off-trail travel in sensitive areas are also commonly restricted. Read the signs at each trailhead and ask a ranger if you are unsure.

A historical park is not a tourist stop, even when it looks like one. Cape Henry Memorial Part of Colonial National Historical Park rewards visitors who understand the difference.

Hero photo: National Park Service