Why Westmoreland State Park Is a Must-Visit During Your Easthaven Getaway
If you've ever heard the words, "I'm bored," before you've even finished unloading the car, you're going to love this place.
Just 10 minutes from Easthaven, Westmoreland State Park is one of our favorite family adventures—and judging by the smiles on our guests' faces, we're not the only ones. Recently recognized as one of the best state parks in Eastern Virginia, it's the kind of place where kids can burn off energy, parents can actually relax, and everyone heads home with a pocket full of shark teeth and great stories.
Whether you're traveling with curious elementary school explorers, adventurous tweens, grandparents, or the family dog, Westmoreland State Park offers something for every age.
Go on a Real-Life Shark Tooth Hunt
Forget souvenir shops—how about finding a 15-million-year-old treasure instead?
One of the park's biggest attractions is Fossil Beach, where families search the shoreline for fossilized shark teeth that have washed out of ancient marine deposits. Watching your child discover their first shark tooth is one of those vacation moments they'll remember for years.
Pro tip: Bring a small bucket or mesh bag to collect your fossil finds, and water shoes make exploring the shoreline much more comfortable.
Hike Trails the Whole Family Can Enjoy
Westmoreland State Park has several scenic trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making it easy to choose one that fits your family's energy level.
Along the way, you'll enjoy:
- Beautiful Potomac River overlooks
- Towering hardwood forests
- Wildlife spotting (keep an eye out for bald eagles and deer!)
- Quiet places to stop for a snack or family photo
Even younger hikers can join the adventure, and the changing seasons make every visit feel a little different.
Pack a Picnic and Make a Day of It
One of our favorite ways to enjoy the park is to slow down and stay awhile.
Bring lunch, spread out a picnic blanket, and let the kids run while you soak in the peaceful surroundings. There are picnic tables, grills, playgrounds, open spaces, and plenty of room to simply enjoy being together.
Sometimes the best vacation memories aren't the expensive attractions—they're the simple moments.
Explore by Bike or Boat
Want even more adventure?
Westmoreland State Park is also a great place to:
- Ride bikes through the park
- Launch a kayak or canoe
- Spend the day boating on the Potomac River
- Fish from the shoreline
- Watch for eagles soaring overhead
It's one more reason families return year after year.
A New Adventure Every Season
One of the things we love most about Westmoreland State Park is that it's worth visiting no matter when you stay at Easthaven.
Spring: Wildflowers and comfortable hiking weather.
Summer: Beach days, fossil hunting, boating, and picnics.
Fall: Gorgeous foliage and crisp hiking weather.
Winter: Quiet trails, peaceful views, and incredible birdwatching.
Every season offers a different kind of adventure.
Stay at Easthaven and Visit for Free
Here's one of our favorite perks for Easthaven guests:
We provide a Virginia State Parks Pass that guests are welcome to borrow during their stay, so you can skip the entrance and parking fees and head straight to the fun.
It's one more way we try to make your family getaway a little easier—and a little more affordable.
Why Families Love Pairing Easthaven with Westmoreland State Park
After a morning hunting for shark teeth and hiking scenic trails, you can head back to Easthaven to:
- Fish from the private dock
- Paddle the kayaks or canoe
- Challenge the kids to Pop-A-Shot or board games
- Roast marshmallows around the smokeless fire pit
- Watch the sunset over Nomini Bay
It's the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation—and exactly the kind of weekend that helps everyone reconnect.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Westmoreland State Park from Easthaven?
Westmoreland State Park is just a 10-minute drive from Easthaven, making it one of the easiest day trips during your stay.
Can you really find shark teeth at Westmoreland State Park?
Yes! Fossil Beach is one of Virginia's best-known places to hunt for fossilized shark teeth, and it's a favorite activity for families.
Is Westmoreland State Park good for young kids?
Absolutely. The park offers easy hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, a beach, and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore nature.
Do Easthaven guests have to pay park admission?
Easthaven provides a Virginia State Parks Pass for guests to borrow, helping you save on entrance and parking fees.
Ready to plan a getaway filled with shark tooth hunts, waterfront sunsets, and family adventures? Easthaven puts you just minutes from one of Virginia's best state parks while giving you the perfect waterfront retreat to come home to after a day of exploring.
For current trail conditions, park hours, events, and additional information, visit the official Westmoreland State Park page: Westmoreland State Park