Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve - Cape Charles, VA
Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve – Dog-Friendly Trails & Beach in Cape Charles, VA
Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve offers dog owners a quiet and scenic getaway in Cape Charles, Virginia. This expansive preserve features pet-friendly trails through serene woodlands, sandy paths near coastal dunes, and access to an uncrowded Chesapeake Bay beach—making it a unique destination for dog-friendly hiking and shoreline exploration. The trails are well-suited for a leisurely walk or an energetic run with your pup, with lush woods that offer scenic beauty year-round.
While this isn’t a fenced dog park, the preserve is a wonderful spot for leashed adventures. Visitors appreciate the tranquility, ample opportunities for off-the-beaten-path walks, and proximity to the water. With only 8 parking spaces at the trailhead, it’s best to arrive early. Please note there are no public restrooms or water fountains, so plan ahead and pack necessities for both you and your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, the preserve features woodland trails leading to the beach and along the dunes.
- Is there a swimming area or pond for dogs? Yes, the Chesapeake Bay beach provides shallow water access for dogs and families alike.
- Are there restrooms available for owners? No, there are no public restrooms at the park.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking lot at the trailhead that fits about 8 vehicles. Do not park on the road to avoid ticketing or towing.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The woodland trails offer natural shade along parts of the walk.
- Are picnics allowed? Yes, this is a lovely spot for a picnic, but be sure to clean up after yourself and your pet.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? No explicit seating or benches are mentioned in the park description.
Reviews
Beautiful, quiet spot for a run or walk. 🏃♀️ beach, though stormy when we were there bc of a passing hurricane, was nice and less crowded than Cape Charles proper .
Beautiful, quiet spot for a run or walk. 🏃♀️ beach, though stormy when we were there bc of a passing hurricane, was nice and less crowded than Cape Charles proper .
Beautiful, quiet spot for a run or walk. 🏃♀️ beach, though stormy when we were there bc of a passing hurricane, was nice and less crowded than Cape Charles proper .
This place was absolutely beautiful ! The water was pretty shallow a long ways out so it’s a great place to go with your family
This place was absolutely beautiful ! The water was pretty shallow a long ways out so it’s a great place to go with your family
This place was absolutely beautiful ! The water was pretty shallow a long ways out so it’s a great place to go with your family
If you like uncrowded small beaches on the Chesapeake, this is well worth a visit. Half-mile trail from the parking lot is an easy walk. The small but lengthy stretch of sand makes it well worth while. No water or restrooms, though, so come prepared. Lovely spot for a picnic. The car park only has room for 8 vehicles
If you like uncrowded small beaches on the Chesapeake, this is well worth a visit. Half-mile trail from the parking lot is an easy walk. The small but lengthy stretch of sand makes it well worth while. No water or restrooms, though, so come prepared. Lovely spot for a picnic. The car park only has room for 8 vehicles
If you like uncrowded small beaches on the Chesapeake, this is well worth a visit. Half-mile trail from the parking lot is an easy walk. The small but lengthy stretch of sand makes it well worth while. No water or restrooms, though, so come prepared. Lovely spot for a picnic. The car park only has room for 8 vehicles
There’s a limited 8 car parking lot at the trailhead, so if it’s full come back later. Don’t park on the road. It’s a short walk through the woods before you find sandy trails near the dunes and the narrow beaches. The dunes are…meh. Nothing exciting. The beaches are interesting with driftwood and washed up seaweed. You will need to visit during low tide, otherwise there’s no beach. You can walk additional woodland trails, but when it’s so hot ‘n humid who wants to do that? Nice little stop.