field trips hampton roads

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Alerts in effect, field trips.

Last updated: February 15, 2022

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Contact info, mailing address:.

535 Hampton Lane Towson, MD 21286

410-962-4290 (option 2)

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Hampton Roads Bird Club

Founded in 1951, the hampton roads bird club and its members, have been active within the community for over 60 years, the club has monthly field trips from september through may.

Future Trips

Greensprings / Powhatan Creek Trails / Piney Grove

Saturday, May 11 and 12, 2024 

Leader: James Abbott [email protected]           757-320-9191 (text or phone)

This Saturday May 11th we will have our formally scheduled May outline for warblers at Greensprings Interpretive Trail (3751 John Tyler Hwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185). This is up in Williamsburg next to Jamestown High School. Our primary targets will be spring migrants but this is a nice place to birdwatch in general. We will meet in the parking lot at 6:30am (warblers wait for no one) and we will walk the trails until 10 or 11am or when activity seems to drop off.

On Sunday May 12th I'm inviting folks to go out to Big Woods WMA  and Piney Grove to try and see some Red Cockaded Woodpeckers. I am still working on the details with Emma at DWR but we will probably meet early in the morning at Virginia Diner and consolidate into as few cars as possible. There is very little parking and the roads in Big Woods are not well maintained either. We will hike the trail to the woodpecker cluster and try to view them. We can then go over to Piney Grove if we are unsuccessful. Stay tuned for more information.

As always I can be reached at 7573209191

James Abbott

Past Field Trips

Great Dismal Swamp

April 21, 2024

Trip report pending.

CBBT Islands

Saturday, January 13, 2024    

Click for the Trip Report results:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/173203

Back Bay Tram

Saturday, February 10, 2024    

Click for the Trip Report results:  https://ebird.org/tripreport/197222

May 7, 2023 6:30 AM - Ja mes River Parks Richmond

On Sunday, May 7th, the field trip to the James River Parks System in Richmond took place to target many of our true migrant warblers and many other songbird migrants. Target species were Cape May, Magnolia, Bay-Breasted and Blue-winged warblers.

7573209191 or  [email protected]

April 23, 2023

Leader: James Abbott

On Sunday April 23rd the Hampton Roads Bird Club had its April Field Trip at Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge. Our group of 12 started at the Washington Ditch Trail at 7am. The weather was sunny and cool with temperatures rising throughout the morning. The warbler activity was very high with lots of good looks at OVENBIRD, PROTHONOTARY, NORTHERN PARULA, and a great encounter with a BLACK-THROATED GREEN WARBLER. The group encountered many first of season species such as YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO, INDIGO BUNTING, and GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER. The highlight of the Washington Ditch was a a close flyby of a BARRED OWL. We continued the trip on the Jericho Ditch trail. We finally got good looks at several SWAINSON’S WARBLER. We would also add PRAIRIE WARBLER to our list. A surprise species heard by a few trip participants and seen by trip leader James Abbott was a SORA in the switchcane wetland on the way into the Jericho Trail parking area. Outside of the birds there was an amazing concentration of high numbers of 4 species of butterfly on the ground in the parking lot after we wrapped up the trip.

To see the corresponding eBird Trip Report, click  https://ebird.org/tripreport/111069

February 25, 2023

Leader: Ryan Walsh

No bird count results available.

Hog Island WMA

March 19, 2023

On March 19th the Hampton Roads Bird Club had its March Field Trip at Hog Island Wildlife Management Area in Surry County, VA. It was cool and breezy but there was lots of bird activity. The trip had 24 participants. We drove the main road through the WMA and walked some of the side roads. We observed 49 species with the highlights being great looks at AMERICAN WHITE PELICAN, TUNDRA SWAN, many NORTHERN SHOVELER, and two NORTHERN PINTAIL. An early PECTORAL SANDPIPER along with some participant’s lifer HORNED LARK were additional exciting sightings.

To see the corresponding eBird Trip Report, click   https://ebird.org/tripreport/108871

Colonial Parkway and York River Birding Trip

Sunday, January 8, 2023

Our first attempt this winter at waterfowl. We will travel down the Colonial Parkway on the York River stopping at various locations to view waterfowl. We will meet at the Target off 199 (200 Marquis Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185). We will caravan down all the way to Yorktown Beach. We will meet at 7:30am. Text 7573209191 or email [email protected] . 

Grandview Beach Field Trip

November 13,  2022 

Leaders: James Abbott and Ryan Walsh

On November 13, 2022 the HRBC lead by Ryan Walsh visited Grandview Beach in Hampton. Nine observers recorded 37 species while walking the entrance trail and the beach. Highlights included the arrival of winter visitors such as Black Scoter and Surf Scoter as well as Horned Grebe and Northern Gannet. Shorebirds continued with good numbers of Sanderling and Dunlin. The most exciting sighting was of 20 Brant flying north over the Chesapeake Bay.

Eastern Shore Birding Trip

October 16, 2022

On Sunday October 16th the HRBC held its traditional field trip to the Eastern Shore. A large group of birders met at the ESVA Welcome Center at 7am. We walked the trails at the ESVA National Wildlife Refuge. The morning was cool and overcast a the bird activity was very high. We encountered thousands of YELLOW RUMPED WARBLER and 20-30 AMERICAN KESTREL as well as other migrating raptors. Some late NORTHERN PARULA and BLACK AND WHITE WARBLER were highlights. We had view of LITTLE BLUE HERON, WHITE IBIS and TRICOLORED HERON at the marsh overlook. We then continued by car up to the seaside town of Oyster, VA to walk the Horse Island Trail. We had perfect mid tides that concentrated the shorebirds on sporadic exposed oyster reefs. We had very high numbers 200-300 of both WILLET and AMERICAN OYSTERCATCHER. We also had good flocks of SHORT BILLED DOWITCHER and DUNLIN. We had a group of flyover BLUE WINGED TEAL and a brief view of SALTMARSH SPARROW. The birds of the day were great looks at 3 MARBLED GODWIT and 4 WHIMBREL with one of them foraging in the marsh at extremely close range.

A small faction continued up to Chincoteague NWR. We walked the Woodland Trail and drove the Wildlife Loop. We encountered early winter visitors in RED BREASTED NUTHATCH, DARK EYED JUNCO, and YELLOW BELLIED SAPSUCKER as well as two late warbler species OVENBIRD and CAPE MAY. On the Wildlife Loop group members viewed GREEN WINGED TEAL, AMERICAN BLACK DUCK, PEREGRINE FALCON and WHITE RUMPED SANDPIPER. The group stopped at Blank Narrows Brewing Company in Chincoteague to try their Longleaf IPA made with longleaf needles from Piney Grove Preserve. The can artwork has a Red-cockaded Woodpecker. Total species 70.

To see the corresponding eBird Trip Report, click   https://ebird.org/tripreport/72421

Shorebird Excursion to Back Bay NWR

September 10, 2022

The HRBC September field trip was at Back Bay NWR on September 10th a group of 9 participants walked the Raptor Trail and the dikes out to C pool. We observed 48 species with some highlights being great looks at WILSONS SNIPE and KING RAIL. We had looks at SORA and PEREGRINE FALCON as well as BOBOLINK and SEASIDE SPARROW. The best bird was a female/young male PAINTED BUNTING.

Field Trip to Hog Island

April 23, 2022

The Hampton Roads Bird Club April Field Trip was at Hog Island on Saturday the 23rd. Our group of seven birders met at 7am and headed through the gate into Hog Island. WE tallied 62 species between 7am and noon. We had great views of ORCHARD ORIOLE, PRAIRIE WARBLER, and GREAT CRESTED FLYCATCHER. We also had exciting close views of WHITE_EYED VIREO breeding behavior. We saw one WEVI nest under construction and one complete nest with a bird incubating eggs. BALD EAGLE numbers were very high and active and we flushed two BOBWHITE QUAIL. Despite higher water levels, we did have some shorebirds including both YELLOWLEGS and LEAST SANDPIPER. The best bird of the day was the pair of BLACK-NECKED STILT towards the end of the main road.

Full Species List:

Canada Goose

American Black Duck

Northern Bobwhite

Pied-billed Grebe

Mourning Dove

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

Black-necked Stilt

Least Sandpiper

Spotted Sandpiper

Solitary Sandpiper

Lesser Yellowlegs

Greater Yellowlegs

Laughing Gull

Caspian Tern

Double-crested Cormorant

Great Blue Heron

Black Vulture

Turkey Vulture

Belted Kingfisher

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Great Crested Flycatcher

Eastern Kingbird

Eastern Phoebe

White-eyed Vireo

American Crow

Tree Swallow

Barn Swallow

Carolina Chickadee

Tufted Titmouse

Brown-headed Nuthatch

Carolina Wren

Blue-gray Gnatcatcher

Gray Catbird

Brown Thrasher

Northern Mockingbird

American Goldfinch

Orchard Oriole

Red-winged Blackbird

Brown-headed Cowbird

Common Grackle

Black-and-White Warbler

Prothonotary Warbler

Common Yellowthroat

Pine Warbler

Yellow-rumped Warbler

Prairie Warbler

Northern Cardinal

Indigo Bunting

Eastern Towhee

Chipping Sparrow

Savannah Sparrow

Song Sparrow

Swamp Sparrow

White-throated Sparrow

Field Trip to York River Side of Colonial Parkway

Sunday, March 13, 2022

The March field trip will be on the York River side of the Colonial Parkway. This will be our last chance at migrating waterfowl as they move back north. We will meet at the Target off 199 ( 200 Marquis Pkwy, Williamsburg, VA 23185). We will caravan down the parkway stopping at pull offs all the way to Yorktown Beach. We will meet at 7am. You can text or email me at (757)3209191 or [email protected] to let me know you intend to join or if you need to reach me the day of the trip.

​ Field Trip to Grandview Nature Preserve

Saturday, February 12, 2022: 7:30 AM

The Hampton Roads Bird Club had its February field trip on the 12th at Grandview Beach in Hampton, Virginia. Weather was cool in the morning but warmed up to the 60s with plenty of sun. There were good numbers of expected waterfowl and shorebird species present with the highlights being several COMMON GOLDENEYE, a female LONG_TAILED DUCK and large rafts of REDHEAD off in the Bay. We had an impressive number of NORTHERN GANNET in close feeding on a school of bait fish. There were 36 species seen.

Lesser Scaup

Surf Scoter

Black Scoter

Long-tailed Duck

Common Goldeneye

Hooded Merganser

Horned Grebe

Black-bellied Plover

Ruddy Turnstone

Herring Gull

Great-black backed Gull

Ring-billed Gull

 Red-throated Loon

Common Loon

Northern Gannet

Brown Pelican

American Robin

Field Trip to Fort Manroe

Saturday, November 27, 2021: 8:00 AM

The Hampton Roads Bird Club had its November field trip on the 27th at Fort Monroe in Hampton, VA. Weather was cold but clear. Our group met at the Phoebus Waterfront Park and drove to serval locations on the fort and walked the bay wall. Winter activity was just picking up as we observed  BUFFLEHEAD and HORNED GREBE along side BROWN PELICAN. The first NORTHERN GANNET have started to arrive along with COMMON LOON. Our best birds of the day were a RUDDY TURNSTONE in a flock of SANDERLING on the rock jetty at Outlook Beach and a SEDGE WREN in a grassy tangle at the very northern tip of the fort past the campground. Species List: 36

Rock Pigeon

Great Black-backed Gull

Forster’s Tern

Sharp-shinned Hawk

Cooper’s Hawk

Eastern Bluebird

Eastern Meadowlark

Eastern Shore Birding Sites Trip

Saturday October 23, 2021: 6:30 AM

The Hampton Roads Bird Club had its October field trip on the 23rd of October in Northampton County on the the Eastern Shore of Virginia.

Weather was in the 60s with a cloudy morning that gave way to sun by noon. There was a significant flight of migrating birds the night before. Our group met at the Eastern Shore Visitor center and walked the trails at the National Wildlife Refuge. There was a lot of activity and the best birds at this site were great looks at a BLACKPOLL WARBLER and a flock of migrating TUNDRA SWAN. We also had BLACK-THROATED BLUE WARBLER and NORTHERN PARULA. We moved on to the town of Oyster, VA and the marsh side trail. High water limited the shorebird activity but we enjoyed great looks at TRICOLORED HERON, AMERICAN BITTERN, SALTMARSH SPARROW, and CLAPPER RAIL. Our last stop was at the Ned Brinkley Preserve at the Cheriton landfill pond. They have done a really nice job here with the parking lot and a wonderful viewing blind at the pond. We had a lot of waterbirds including; BLACK_CROWNED NIGHT HERON and LITTLE BLUE HERON along with some early RUDDY DUCK and RING-NECKED DUCK. Two special notes; on the way to the meeting location in the morning myself and Ryan flushed 3 AMERICAN WOODCOCK on Arlington Chase Rd and the GOLDEN EAGLE reported by the hawk watch at 10:50 was refound along highway 13 feeding on a deer carcass and viewed by group members.

Species List: 83

Tundra Swan

Green-winged Teal

Ring-necked Duck

Clapper Rail

American Woodcock

Great-black Backed Gull

American Bittern

Great Egret

Snowy Egret

Little Blue Heron

Tricolored Heron

Black-crowned Night-Heron

Golden Eagle

Northern Harrier

Red-tailed Hawk

Downy Woodpecker

Northern Flicker

Pileated Woodpecker

American Kestrel

Peregrine Falcon

Eastern Wood-Pewee

Golden-crowned Kinglet

Ruby-crowned Kinglet

Swainson’s Thrush

European Starling

Yellow-breasted Chat

Northern Parula

Blackpool Warbler

Black-throated Blue Warbler

Palm Warbler

Yellow-throated Warbler

Northern Cardinal                                                                        Photos by Pete Peterman

Saltmarsh Sparrow

Comments from the outing.

Thank you Pete, great photos. A couple notes, the eagle pictured is a 1st cycle bald eagle. No golden eagle will have that much body white. The juvenile golden visiting the carcass is almost all dark with faint white patches on the under wing and a thick brown tail band with less defined white. There is also tawny feathers on the nape of the neck. If you have any other photos of birds from the carcass, look through them for these characteristics.

This is a great photo of the saltmarsh sparrow! I sent this photo over to a colleague of mine who works on a marsh sparrow banding project at UNCW and she confirmed this as a saltmarsh sparrow. However she said this individual sparrow is an interesting one. Nelson’s and Saltmarsh were lumped as Sharp-tailed sparrow before being split. The now two species do hybridize and they have been studying this. She says that this individual definitely is showing traits of “Nelson’s” genetics. She cited the the presence of the orange bib like in Nelsons but it is uneven and inconsistent on this individual unlike a classic Nelson’s. She also cited the heavy streaking characteristic of “Saltmarsh” is slightly reduced on this individual.

Hog Island WMA Birding Site Trip

Sunday, September 12, 2021; 7:00 AM

Leaders: James Abbott

The Hampton Roads Bird Club had its first fall excursion beyond the Peninsula on September 12 to Hog Island Wildlife Management Area. Weather was in the 70s with a SSW wind around 12mph. Participants included Christiana Wilson, Wendy and Ellis Maxey, Lesley Meng, Eric Mathews, Gary Wright, June Hartzler, Bill Boeh, Cindy Schulz, Dianne Snyder, Rex Holmlin, John and Marylin Adair, Pete and Charm Peterman, Ryan Walsh, Elizabeth Wilkins, Jacques van Montfrans, and Jeanette and Brian Weinberg.

HRBC at Hog Island (photo by Dianne Snyder)

Water levels were high in the impoundments which limited our shorebird opportunities but great looks at American White Pelican, Northern Harrier, American Redstart, and Bobwhite were the highlights. We also had a Tricolored Heron which is a good catch that far inland.

Species list for Hog Island (9/12/2021)

Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Great black-backed Gull

American White Pelican

Green Heron

American Redstart

Summer Tanager

All participants must have identification to pass through the gate . They are serious about this, I have seen people arrive to a walk unable to participate. Most of the time it was because they rode with other people and did not bring their drivers license. We will drive the two mile access road stopping at various points along the way. We can also walk around the impoundment areas for more viewing. Participants can walk as much as they feel comfortable with.

We will plan to meet at the entrance gate around 7:00am. There is a parking area on the right and in front of the guard house. All cars that will be entering the WMA will be subject to an inspection since we will be driving through Dominion's Surry Nuclear Power Plant to access Hog Island. You can search (Hog Island Wildlife Management Area) in Google Maps or use these GPS coordinates to the parking lot:

37.163174, -76.700857

My email is [email protected] and my cell number is 7573209191: email me or leave me a message if you intend to join

Results of the York River State Park Birding Sites Trip

Saturday, May 8, 2021

Leaders: Harry and Rochelle Colestock

Jane Frigo and Marilyn and John Adair met up with the Colestocks at the visitors’ center at 8:15 on a lovely Saturday morning.  The area near the center was busy with Eastern Bluebirds, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, a Northern Mockingbird, Tufted Titmice, a Great Crested Flycatcher, Indigo Buntings and a Blue Grosbeak, which posed very nicely at the top of a tree.  Jane was first to spot two Cedar Waxwings.  The river overlook provided views of a Bald Eagle, Ospreys and 4 Ruddy Ducks that hadn’t yet flown north with their companions.

The pond area was fairly quiet except for the Great Blue Heron rookery, which had about a dozen herons in residence.  Nearby we spotted an Indigo Bunting and Brown Thrashers and heard Blackpoll Warblers and a Common Yellowthroat.

The trail through the woods yielded lots of bird sounds, but not many good views of Red-eyed Vireos, Yellow-throated Warblers, Carolina Wrens, Black-throated Blue Warblers, Ovenbirds, a Pileated Woodpecker, a Yellow-throated Vireo, a Blue-headed Vireo, Northern Parulas, and a Downy Woodpecker, among others.  Two birds that we got good looks at were a Summer Tanager and Ruby-throated Hummingbird.  We also had close, fleeting views of an Acadian Flycatcher that seemed to be following us along the trail.

The drive back out of the park afforded more opportunities to see and hear multiple bird species.

Blue-headed Vireo

Purple Martin

Cedar Waxwing

Black-and-white Warbler

Blackpoll Warbler

Blue Grosbeak

Red-shouldered Hawk

Acadian Flycatcher

Yellow-throated Vireo

Red-eyed Vireo

Scarlet Tanager

08 May 2021

Results of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge birding sites trip

Saturday, April 17, 2021

The Colestocks met up with Bill Boeh, Dave Brown and Pete Peterman at 07:30 at the Jericho Ditch parking area.  It was a lovely sunny morning with temperatures just right for birding.  We set off to walk Lynn Ditch where Prairie Warblers were in abundance. We also saw or heard (mostly heard, due to the thick foliage) multiple White-eyed Vireos, Ruby-crowned Kinglets, Blue-gray Gnatcatchers, Prothonotaries, Northern Parulas and Red-bellied Woodpeckers.  Two surprises were a flock of Cedar Waxwings and a flying Wood Duck.  Next, we ventured a bit down Jericho, Hudnell and Williamson trails, which were much quieter than Lynn Ditch.  Among the birds we saw or heard were Common Yellowthroats, Eastern Towhees, Great Crested Flycatchers, Yellow-throated Warblers and a Louisiana Waterthrush.

On the way back out on Jericho Ditch Road, we made multiple stops to see or hear a Hooded Warbler, a Black and White Warbler, Swainson’s Warblers, Marsh Wrens, Yellow-throated Warblers and a flock of Rusty Blackbirds—the “bird of the day”.

On the way to Washington Ditch along White Marsh Road we saw Eastern Meadowlarks, a Red-shouldered Hawk and a Kestrel.  On Washington Ditch road we heard an Ovenbird.  The boardwalk provided another Ovenbird, a Pileated Woodpecker, Prothonotary, Palm and Hooded Warblers, Gt. Crested Flycatchers and a big surprise: we heard a Yellow-billed Cuckoo. 

By the time we started walking down the road towards Lake Drummond, it was close to noon and getting warm, so we did not go very far past the downed trees.  The last few birds were Ruby-throated Hummingbirds, Black and White Warblers, a Red-headed Woodpecker, more Prothonotaries and, finally, a Belted Kingfisher.  We all agreed that it had been a good morning for birding. The full list of species seen was:

Hooded Warbler

Louisiana Waterthrush

Red-headed Woodpecker

Rusty Blackbird

Swainson's Warbler

White-breasted Nuthatch

Results of the  Virginia Beach Birding Sites Trip

Saturday, March 13, 2021

It was another cold, windy morning when four intrepid birders (Dave Youker, Bill Boeh, the Colestocks) met at Little Island Park Saturday morning.  The ocean was choppy, but we got glimpses of Horned Grebes, American Oystercatchers, Razorbills, Surf Scoters, Red-throated and Common Loons, and Red-breasted Mergansers.  Northern Gannets and Brown Pelicans soared over the water in the morning sunlight.  Double-crested Cormorants, Great Black-backed Gulls and Ring-billed Gulls clustered on the beach while a bevy of female Boat-tailed Grackles lined the pier.  Away from the beach, birds were not in abundance; but we saw or heard Killdeer, Northern Mockingbird, Fish Crow, Yellow-rumps and a Gray Catbird, among others.

The next stop was Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The wind seemed to be hindering much bird activity, with Robins being the most common bird on the trails.  Other sightings included a Northern Harrier, Kingfisher, Marsh Wren, Song Sparrow, Osprey, Bald Eagle and Yellow-rumps.  Another hike to the beach revealed Sanderlings, more Gannets, Razorbills, Loons, Grebes and RB Mergansers.

Next, we tried the Harris Teeter retention pond, which had good results in recent weeks, but not when we went.  A pair of Mallards swam in the pond and a beautiful Red-tailed Hawk soared over the fields.  Field and Song Sparrows were seen or heard, along with a Flicker, Fish Crow and Carolina Wren.

Nearby at Sherwood Lakes had more water birds.  We got a close view of a Kingfisher near the entrance and a distant view of an immature Bald Eagle.   Red-breasted Mergansers, Ring-billed Gulls and a Common Loon were spotted on the lake.  Incidental sightings included Song Sparrows and a Mockingbird.  At that point, we concluded the trip and headed home. 

Sylvan Heights Bird Park Birding

Saturday, February 20, 2021

•Sign-up:  Please contact Harry or Rochelle Colestock at [email protected] if you intend on going on this trip.  We will only need additional information if there are more than 30 people interested.

•Timing: The park will be open from 9 AM to 4 PM.  Attendees can work their own schedule.  We will not be going as group.  Please check the Sylvan Heights Bird Park website at www.shwpark.com for ticket prices and much additional information on this unique bird facility.  Note the dining information on the site if you are looking for facilities in the area.

• Walking the trails of the park should take about two hours.

•Social distancing and other health maintenance items related to COVID-19 are found also in the facility website.

Results of the Field Trip to Beaver Dam Park

Saturday, January 16, 2021

The weather cooperated with us with clear, calm conditions with temperatures in the 40’s.  These conditions helped us look at great distance over the water to find Ruddy Ducks, Hooded Mergansers, Buffleheads, Ringed-Necked Ducks, Canvasbacks, and a large number of Pied-Billed Grebes and Coots.  Many of the ducks that had originally migrated to Beaverdam pond areas this season have been leaving for other areas in the past six weeks, so we were lucky to see the variety still left in the area. Naturally, we were welcomed in the parking lot by resident Muscovy Ducks.  Several Bald Eagles and a Red-Shouldered Hawk also made appearances. 

After spending a lot of time on the water birds, we ventured on the trails.  By this time, the sun had started to warm up the forest and numerous bird species were vocalizing and feeding in the trees, brush piles, and ground areas.  These species included Juncos; Yellow-Bellied Sapsuckers; Brown Thrasher; Downy, Red-Bellied, Hairy, and Pileated Woodpeckers; Eastern Phoebe; and Ruby-Crowned Kinglet.  As we continued on trails near the water, it was clear that the rainfall in the last six months had saturated the soil and there were numerous water and muddy patches along the way. 

Following the trip conclusion, Cindy Schulz invited participants to visit her home at which a small flock of Evening Grosbeaks have been feeding for several days.  This showing capped a day in which we identified 38 other species.

Muscovy Duck (dom.)

American Coot

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

 Downy Woodpecker

Hairy Woodpecker

Dark-eyed Junco

Field Trips

YMCA at JT's Camp Grom

Group Visit Field Trips | YMCA at JT's Camp Grom

An adaptive experience for all.

Book your group adventure field trip to the YMCA at JT's Camp Grom. Groups that focus on the well-being and development of children and adults with and without disabilities can enjoy land and water activities. All activities are created and accessible for all abilities. If special assistance is necessary for add-on activities, please let us know so that we can staff accordingly.

Standard Field Trip

$300/two hours (20 participants)  Extend your time at the YMCA at JT's Camp Grom for $100/hour

Activities:

• Adventure Center
• Sportsplex (choose from basketball, ping pong, board games, and crafts)
• Outdoor Activities (choose from soccer, bocce, corn hole, archery, and fishing)

Teachers and chaperones are not included in the participant count if they are with the group for added supervision only.

Field Trip Add-Ons

Pricing is for two hours of activity:

• Alpine Climbing Tower: $150
• Indoor pool: $150
• Indoor pool and lazy river: $200
• Indoor pool, lazy river & splash pad: $250
• Lake activities excluding cable tubing: $150
• Lake activities including cable tubing: $200

Life in Hampton Roads Va

• Virginia Beach

Top 5 Day Trips from Hampton Roads for Adventure Seekers

Looking for exciting day trips that you can take from Hampton Roads ? You're in the right place.  Hampton Roads offers a variety of destinations perfect for a day away.  Whether you're interested in history, nature, or unique small towns, there's something nearby for you.

I will discuss this in more detail below, but one great option is a visit to Jamestown , the first English colony in America. It's just a short drive up Interstate 64 from Hampton Roads, making it convenient and educational. This is a popular spot for school field trips in our area simply because it's close by and very educational.

If you enjoy being outside and the chance to see some wildlife, then another fantastic destination is the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge , where you can explore diverse wildlife habitats and enjoy some fresh air.

I personally like heading into the mountains of Virginia and for those who love caves, the Luray Caverns are an incredible choice. A bit farther but worth the drive, these caverns offer stunning underground views and fascinating history.

These spots ensure your day trip from Hampton Roads is memorable and fun. These are some of my top day trip picks. However, this isn't them all, as we will review some more of my favorites below.

Historical Excursions

Hampton Roads offers several fascinating trips for  history buffs . From early colonial settlements to key Civil War sites, you'll find meaningful experiences in several storied locations. While some of these are a short drive outside Hampton Roads, the area also has many historical sites located within the Hampton Roads area.

Colonial Williamsburg & Jamestown

Colonial Williamsburg is a living history museum in Williamsburg, Virginia. Costumed interpreters recreate daily life in the 18th century, and you'll see historic buildings, reenactments, and craftsmen at work. My family and I enjoy visiting during the Christmas season, as they do a great job decorating for the season.

Just a short 65 miles away from the Southside Hampton Roads, Jamestown is America's first English settlement. You can visit the original fort and learn about early colonization efforts here. The Jamestown Settlement Museum offers exhibits and reconstructed ships that sailed to Virginia in 1607.

Moving To Hampton Roads Virginia?

Our team talks to so many people thinking about moving to Hampton Roads Virginia just like you and we absolutely love it! Click the button below or go ahead and shoot us a text by tapping this number: (757)-520-2092

Yorktown and American Revolution Museum

Yorktown is another key historical spot known for the last major battle of the American Revolution. The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown features interactive exhibits, films, and outdoor living history. For the history buffs, this is a perfect spot to spend a whole day taking in the experience and attractions.

You can walk the battlefield where General George Washington led American forces to victory. The town has charming streets and historic buildings, adding to the experience. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the events that led to America’s independence.

Civil War Trails and Historical Sites

Hampton Roads played a significant role in the Civil War. Follow  Civil War Trails to major sites like Fort Monroe, known as the “Freedom’s Fortress.” It was a Union stronghold throughout the war and a refuge for enslaved people seeking freedom.

Visit historical markers at the Hampton Roads Harbor, which saw the famous battle between the ironclad USS Monitor and CSS Virginia. Many local tours, such as the Norfolk Tour Company , offer in-depth views of these events, giving you a tangible connection to history.

Natural Getaways and Parks

Explore Virginia’s stunning parks and natural reserves to experience breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor recreational activities. Read on to learn about two incredible day trips that my family and I thoroughly enjoy, and they're perfect for nature lovers.

Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive

Located along the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park offers rich hiking opportunities and breathtaking views. Stretching over 200,000 acres, the park is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

One of the standout features is Skyline Drive, a scenic route that runs 105 miles along the crest of the mountains. The drive features 75 overlooks, each with unique and panoramic views. Hiking trails, like the well-known Old Rag Mountain and Whiteoak Canyon, provide challenging and rewarding experiences.

The park is not just about hiking; you can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and bird watching. Autumn is particularly beautiful, with vibrant foliage. In my opinion, for the best experience, plan your visit during a less crowded weekday.

Chesapeake Bay and Eastern Shore Adventures

The Chesapeake Bay and the Eastern Shore of Virginia offer a blend of serene beaches, coastal beauty, and wildlife refuges. Activities abound, from kayaking and boating to crabbing and fishing in the tranquil waterways.

Key spots include the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge and False Cape State Park. Back Bay is ideal for birdwatching and hiking through scenic trails. False Cape, accessible only by foot, bike, or boat, offers undeveloped beaches and abundant wildlife, making it perfect for a secluded adventure.

Further up the Eastern Shore, you'll find charming towns where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local hospitality. Whether you prefer water sports or relaxing on the beach, this area provides diverse options for a memorable day trip.

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Beach Outings and Water Activities

In Hampton Roads, you have plenty of beach day options and water activities. From the bustling shores of  Virginia Beach  to the scenic charm of the Outer Banks, these locations offer unique experiences for every beach lover.

Virginia Beach Day Escapes

Virginia Beach is a top destination for a fun and relaxing day trip. Its  famous boardwalk  stretches for three miles, providing a scenic route for walking, biking, and rollerblading.  Wat erfront restaurants  line the boardwalk, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.

Virginia Beach offers numerous kayaking and fishing opportunities for adventurous visitors. Rudee Inlet is a popular spot where you can rent kayaks and jetskis and venture into the calm waters or join a fishing charter. The beach also features Grommet Island Park, a fully accessible beach park perfect for families.

Outer Banks and Currituck Exploration

Just a short drive south of Hampton Roads, the Outer Banks in North Carolina offer a tranquil escape. The Barrier Islands feature long stretches of pristine beaches and are known for their natural beauty. One of the biggest attractions here is Jockey’s Ridge State Park , home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast and ideal for kite flying and sandboarding.

Currituck is famous for its wild horses that roam the beaches and offers unique waterfront restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with views of the Currituck Sound. The  Wright Brothers Memorial  in Kitty Hawk is also a must-visit, adding historical significance to your trip. Whether you’re into sunbathing, exploring history, or engaging in water sports, the Outer Banks have something for everyone.

These destinations offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making them perfect for your next beach outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you can find answers to common questions about the top day trips from the Hampton Roads area . Explore destinations perfect for couples, historical sites,  family-friendly activities , scenic drives, cultural experiences, and highly rated weekend getaways.

What are the best day trip destinations within driving distance of Norfolk, VA for couples?

Couples can enjoy romantic spots like visiting  Jamestown  for its historical charm or spending time at botanical gardens in the area. Consider a wine tasting at Hague Winery or Oak Crest Vineyard for a delightful day.

What family-friendly attractions should be included in a day trip itinerary from Virginia Beach?

Families can explore  the Virginia Aquarium, the Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium, or the  Hampton Roads area  for its  beaches and wildlife refuges . These spots are great for both education and fun.

What are some recommended scenic drives within a few hours of Hampton Roads?

Take a drive along the Colonial Parkway, which connects  Jamestown , Williamsburg, and Yorktown. This route offers beautiful views and significant historical landmarks. The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is another scenic drive with stunning water views.

If there is anything you think I missed or you have any questions about the Hampton Roads area, please comment below or reach out to me here .

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YOUR LOCAL REALTOR

DJ Parker is your local Realtor and guide to Hampton Roads, Virginia. As a native of Chesapeake and Virginia Beach, Virginia for over 30 years, he has the local knowledge you need. He has helped clients with Real Estate throughout Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Suffolk and all of Hampton Roads Virginia.

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Virginia Field Trips

Homeschool families LOVE field trips!

Looking for field trip ideas for homeschoolers? We’ve got you covered!

Have you considered all that our great state has to offer? With the ocean and the mountains, its place in Colonial and Civil War history, and its proximity to the nation’s capital, intriguing and worthwhile locations abound!

Whether you want to explore a special topic (just how DO they make potato chips, anyway?), supplement a science or history lesson, or just need a day out, you’ll find something that will fit your needs.

Have an idea for a field trip you’d like to share? Submit it here.

Checklist for a Successful Field Trip

Pack some questions with that lunch.

Field Trips by Interest

Discover great field trips, ideas, preparation tips, and inspiration by finding a trip of your interests.

Field Trips by Region

Find all kinds of homeschool field trip ideas near you in Virginia. Field trip listings are by regions.

Homeschool Days are special days set aside for homeschooling families to enjoy the venue at a discounted rate—and in the company of fellow homeschoolers. These åevents often include special programs geared to various age levels. Many Homeschool Days were initiated by HEAV, but the events have proven so popular that MANY museums and historical sites offer multiple days throughout the year.

Field trips, by contrast, can be taken ANY time that suits you and your family. Taking an impromptu field trip to culminate a chapter or unit study–or just to enjoy an on-site experience– are one of the many blessings of homeschooling!

Our advice is to always contact the designated venue for details, especially before heading out the day of the event. 

You can take a field trip any time. Visit our pages for some favorite field trips by interest or region. Can’t get out? That’s okay, virtual field trips abound too!

Want a discount? Homeschool Day events  around Virginia that welcome home educators and offer special prices and exhibits. Scheduled periodically throughout the year, these days are set aside for homeschooling families. They are great opportunities to get a good deal AND connect with other homeschoolers. Check out Homeschool Days here.

HEAV Sponsored Homeschool Days

HEAV works with museums and theme parks across the Commonwealth to arrange homeschool field trips for Virginia families at reduced rates. Enjoy a field trip with other families this season! Can’t make it to Homeschool Day? That’s okay! You can take a field trip any time. Visit our Virginia Is for Field Trips page for some favorite field trips by interest or by region.

Virtual Field Trips

We know! Getting out and about isn’t always easy–or even possible. Virtual field trips are a GREAT option! These specially designed tours let you experience many venues on those days when getting there just won’t work.

Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. With virtual maps and street views, you could even take a tour of a far-away city like London or Paris without ever leaving the house.

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A Virtual Tour of St. Petersburg

Welcome to our tour of St. Petersburg! Here we will introduce you to Russia's greatest historical and cultural treasure, its "Northern Capital" - the famous "Venice of the North". Virtually unharmed by the 1930-50s period of Stalinist reconstruction, downtown St. Petersburg is crowded with splendid palaces, impressive historical monuments, tree-lined avenues and beautiful bridges. Although not yet 300 years old, St. Petersburg is a city crammed with historical and cultural associations and a refined air of mystery.

Just sit back, wander around the virtual sights on our tour and discover the unparalleled beauty of St. Petersburg, Russia.

Start your tour here and follow the NEXT links... or select one of the landmarks below.

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Science Center of Pinellas

The Science Center of Pinellas is an independent science and technology center dedicated to providing innovative, dynamic learning experiences for curious young minds, while laying a foundation in STEM for their future career options. The 28,000 square foot space features a planetarium, observatory, and 600-gallon marine touch tank. The Science Center offers hands on classroom activities and educational programs that explore the environment, robotics and outer space!

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Hrs: Weekdays 8:30AM - 5PM.

HELPFUL LESSON PLAN(S)

Prepared by fieldtripdirectory.com.

STEM Lesson Plan

Throughout history American innovations have greatly impacted the country and the world. The light bulb, the assembly line, the refrigerator, flight, and the personal computer are all inventions by American innovators. For America to continue to lead the world in innovation, students must be trained, educated, and fluent in the foundation of innovation – science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These essential subjects can be found and applied to a plethora of class trip destinations. Consider the science that makes possible the activities you partake in and the places you visit.