Camptown / Antarctic area
Camptown, often referred to locally as the Antarctic area due to its street names, is a residential neighborhood in the southern region of Virginia Beach. Characterized by its mid-20th-century housing stock and proximity to both military installations and recreational areas, Camptown represents a significant portion of the city's suburban landscape. The area's unique naming convention, derived from explorations of the Antarctic continent, distinguishes it from other neighborhoods within Virginia Beach.
History
The development of Camptown began in the post-World War II era, coinciding with the expansion of Naval Air Station Oceana and the growing need for housing for military personnel and their families. The neighborhood was largely conceived as a planned community, designed to accommodate the influx of residents drawn to the area by employment opportunities at the base. The unusual street names, representing explorers, ships, and geographical features of Antarctica, were chosen by the developer, Stanley D. Pullen, as a thematic element intended to set the neighborhood apart.[1] Pullen's decision to use Antarctic references gave the subdivision an identity that residents still use today, decades after the last homes were built.
Construction began in earnest during the 1950s, with the bulk of single-family homes completed through the 1960s. Ranch-style and split-level designs dominated the build-out, reflecting the architectural preferences of the period. As the decades progressed, Camptown experienced gradual infill development and housing renovation. The neighborhood's proximity to Oceana Naval Air Station consistently shaped its demographic composition, with a significant percentage of residents affiliated with the military. Over time, Camptown transitioned from a predominantly military-focused community to a more diverse residential area, attracting families, retirees, and individuals working in various sectors.
Naval Air Station Oceana's history is directly tied to Camptown's growth. The station was reactivated after World War II and expanded considerably during the Cold War years, driving demand for nearby housing that developers like Pullen moved quickly to meet.[2] In 2005, the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) Commission considered consolidating East Coast master jet base operations, which would have severely impacted Oceana and, by extension, the neighborhoods dependent on it. Virginia Beach launched an aggressive campaign to retain the base, ultimately succeeding. That outcome directly preserved the economic underpinning of communities like Camptown. The episode highlighted just how closely the neighborhood's stability is bound to the fate of the installation next door.
Geography
Camptown is situated in the southern portion of Virginia Beach, bordered by Princess Anne Road to the north, London Bridge Road to the south, and the western edge of Oceana Naval Air Station to the west. Its eastern boundary runs approximately along Witchduck Road. The topography of the area is relatively flat, typical of the coastal plain region of southeastern Virginia. Several small drainage canals and ditches traverse the neighborhood, designed to manage stormwater runoff and prevent flooding.[3]
The street layout follows a grid pattern, with streets named after Antarctic explorers, ships, and geographical features. Examples include Byrd Avenue, named after Rear Admiral Richard E. Byrd, who led five U.S. expeditions to Antarctica between 1928 and 1956; Shackleton Drive, commemorating Ernest Shackleton's early 20th-century expeditions; Scott Street, named for British explorer Robert Falcon Scott; and Ellsworth Lane, referencing Lincoln Ellsworth, who completed the first trans-Antarctic flight in 1935. The naming convention is thoroughgoing enough that residents and locals don't typically need an address to place themselves. They just say "the Antarctic streets."
The presence of Oceana Naval Air Station significantly influences the soundscape of Camptown. Aircraft noise from takeoffs and landings is a daily reality for residents. The area is also relatively close to several parks and recreational facilities, offering access to green spaces and outdoor activities.
Culture
Camptown's cultural identity is shaped by its history as a military-adjacent community and its long-standing residential character. While it doesn't have a distinct commercial center or concentrated cultural hub, the neighborhood builds a sense of community through local civic leagues and neighborhood associations. These organizations address local concerns, organize community events, and promote neighborhood cohesion.[4]
Annual neighborhood block parties and holiday decorating traditions are common expressions of community spirit. The demographic makeup of Camptown, influenced by the transient nature of military assignments, contributes to a diverse mix of backgrounds and perspectives. Residents often participate in city-wide events and activities, but the neighborhood itself maintains a relatively quiet and suburban atmosphere. The local schools serving Camptown are part of the Virginia Beach City Public Schools system, and educational opportunity is a consistent concern among residents, particularly those with school-age children.
The Antarctic street names aren't just a quirk. They've become a point of local pride, a conversation piece that distinguishes Camptown from the dozens of other mid-century subdivisions scattered across Virginia Beach. Long-time residents sometimes identify themselves by which explorer's name their street carries.
Economy
The economy of Camptown is primarily residential, with limited commercial activity within the neighborhood itself. The dominant economic influence stems from the presence of Naval Air Station Oceana, which provides employment for a substantial portion of the local population. Many residents are employed directly by the Navy or in supporting industries, including defense contracting and aerospace.[5] NAS Oceana is one of the largest employers in Hampton Roads, a status that ripples through surrounding neighborhoods in ways both direct and indirect.
Beyond the military sector, residents of Camptown work in education, healthcare, retail, and professional services. The proximity to larger commercial areas of Virginia Beach, including Town Center and Lynnhaven Mall, provides access to a wider range of employment opportunities. Homeownership is prevalent in Camptown, contributing to the stability of the local housing market. Property values in the area are influenced by proximity to the naval base, school quality, aircraft noise considerations, and broader market conditions across Hampton Roads.
Attractions
Camptown itself doesn't feature major tourist attractions, but its location provides convenient access to numerous points of interest in Virginia Beach. The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is approximately a 20-minute drive from the neighborhood, offering beaches, a boardwalk, restaurants, and entertainment venues. First Landing State Park, known for its historical significance and natural beauty, is also within easy reach.[6]
Oceana Naval Air Station occasionally hosts air shows and open house events, attracting visitors from across the region. Several local parks and recreational facilities, including Baylake Pines Park and Princess Anne Park, provide opportunities for outdoor activities. The neighborhood's residential character and quiet atmosphere offer a contrast to the more bustling tourist areas of Virginia Beach, appealing to those seeking a peaceful and family-friendly environment.
Transportation
Camptown is readily accessible by car via several major roadways, including Princess Anne Road, London Bridge Road, and Witchduck Road. Public transportation options are available through Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), with several bus routes serving the broader area. Norfolk International Airport is approximately a 30-minute drive from Camptown, providing air travel connections.[7]
Traffic congestion can occur during peak hours, particularly on Princess Anne Road and London Bridge Road, which serve as primary corridors for commuters heading to and from Oceana. Bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure within Camptown is limited. Sidewalks are present on many streets, but dedicated bike lanes are not. The neighborhood's grid street layout makes navigation relatively straightforward for drivers unfamiliar with the area.