Best Campgrounds near Dover, DE

The area around Dover, Delaware has several good camping spots within an hour's drive. Cape Henlopen State Park Campground sits about 34 miles from Dover, with beaches and hiking trails that campers can walk to from their sites. Another option is Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, 44 miles away, which puts you right by the water for fishing trips. Both parks have decent bathrooms and hot showers that stay pretty clean even during busy weekends. You'll see deer, foxes, and lots of birds at these campgrounds, so hang your food properly at night. Spring and fall are really the sweet spots for camping here - the weather's comfortable and the crowds are smaller. If you're thinking about a summer trip, book months ahead since sites fill up fast. Winter camping works if you don't mind the cold, though some water might be shut off. The online reservation system for both parks works well, but don't wait until the last minute, especially for holiday weekends. You can bring either a tent or an RV to both places, with sites that work for different setups. These campgrounds make good home bases for day trips around the Dover area.

Best Camping Sites Near Dover, Delaware (111)

    1. Killens Pond State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Felton, DE
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 284-4526

    $27 - $103 / night

    "First time staying overnight at a campground in Delaware. The cabins are tiny on the inside but that porch really provides very useful space.
    No paper towels, soap or kitchen utensils."

    "Delaware seemed short on camping options and this one was probably top of the line 40 years ago. It's dated in every way, but it's in a good spot.

    Seemed to have some residents mixed in."

    2. Dover AFB Famcamp

    2 Reviews
    Little Creek, DE
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 677-3959

    $8 - $20 / night

    "This campground is on Dover Air Force Base so you must be able to access the base with a Department of Defense identification card."

    3. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $27 - $45 / night

    "Great place to stay and check out “Lower, slower Delaware.”"

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    4. Tuckahoe State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Ridgely, MD
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 820-1668

    $21 - $70 / night

    "Tuckahoe State Park is tucked away onto the Eastern Shore of Maryland, close to the Chesapeake Bay. It features every kind of camping you can imagine."

    "It is less than 40 mins from Annapolis and close to DC and Baltimore.   Yet it is isolated and quiet.  There’s some great trails as well as walking between the camp loops and picnic areas.  "

    5. Cape Henlopen State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Lewes, DE
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 645-2103

    $35 - $105 / night

    "My group was there, on two adjacent sites, from Sunday to Tuesday, in early June. The weather could not have been more ideal! We were on sites G12 and G13, which were both really large."

    "Cape henlopen is one of five or six Delaware state parks that offer RV camping. Sites vary in size so make sure you check the details before you book."

    6. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    34 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    7. Blackbird State Forest Campground - CLOSED TIL FURTHER NOTICE

    6 Reviews
    Townsend, DE
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 653-6505

    $25 / night

    "The only thing about this site specifically is the trail was close by so you’d occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn’t still feel secluded."

    "I was only one in the forest ATM but saw some hikers occasionally throughout the day walking by."

    8. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park At Delaware Beaches

    12 Reviews
    Milford, DE
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 491-6614

    "Campground well maintained and relatively quiet given its peak season for Delaware beaches. Off the beaten path from beach noise but does require a 15-30 minute drive to popular beaches."

    "Close proximity to the beach. Lots of family friendly activities. Full stocked camp store."

    9. Martinak State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Denton, MD
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (888) 432-2267

    $18 - $77 / night

    "Park is that the Electric loop (B) has all of the sites on the outside of the drive loop so you are not looking across the road at other campers."

    "Just off highway, nice wooded area, access to a good boat ramp."

    10. G & R Campground

    5 Reviews
    Harrington, DE
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 398-8108

    "Quickly stopped through G&R which is a nice, quiet campground hidden in the middle of Delaware. Plenty of spaces for campers and more than enough utility spaces available."

    "There is a smell due to being next to a chicken or animal farm; however, after a few minutes outside, the smell goes away."

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Recent Reviews near Dover, DE

762 Reviews of 111 Dover Campgrounds


  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Tiffany P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Ocean View Resort Campground

    Lots of fun

    This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities. Does get very crowded and definitely have to book a head. We loved where our site was located. Will definitely be visiting again.

  • Evan C.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Redden State Forest Campground

    Secluded and improving

    8/15/2025

    Arrived after dark to find that I had the campground to myself. As noted in other reviews, turn right as you drive past the office/house and let yourself in through the closed (but unlocked) gate. Since the last review, it appears they've added 11 sites on a branch if you bear left after the gate. These sites (8-18) are level, packed gravel pads with benches, fire pit, grill, and picnic table. The restroom featured on the map is just a portalet, but there is plenty of overflow parking in that branch. Apparently you're not supposed to pull onto the gravel with your vehicle, just park parallel to the road alongside it. 

    Another note about the gravel - can't get stakes in. Plus, it's a pine forest and I didn't want to get sap on my tent so I didn't tent adjacent to the pad amidst the pine needles. I did drive around the right branch (sites 1-7) in the morning to find that they are dirt/grass sites and probably would be ideal for tenting/staking (and in case you haven't guessed, I don't have a freestanding tent). The area is densely forested with pines and is quite pleasant in that regard.

  • colleen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay

    Awesome!

    We loved it. Great for a long getaway or a quick one like ours. Loved our stay. It was clean and full of fun.

  • C
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort

    Pros and cons

    We have been to this campground twice. First time everything was very clean and lots to do. The last time things had slipped a little bit. Campground was definitely not as clean. The first time there was staff riding around picking up garbage and keeping things neat. Last time it seemed like it was just a bunch of teenagers flying around on golf carts not doing much. Almost all the games were broken in the arcade. Plus a lot more seasonals. The seasonals also have a lot of political flags with profanities. Not very family friendly! Pros love the pool, lake, waterslides, and proximity to cape may Cons broken equipment, kids racing golf carts all hours of the nights, lots of seasonals with over the top decorations, with flags with profanities and cleanliness slipping. We will try it again. Hopefully they were just having an off year.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Lums Pond State Park Campground

    A Gem Among State Campgrounds

    We spent a long weekend with family at Lums Pond State Park Campground and so glad we did. 

    We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56). 

    This place is a gem, even among nice state parks. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • Easy access from I-95 

    • Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved 

    • Friendly and helpful staff 

    • Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more) 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • There’s nothing we didn’t like about this place 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a nice place with plenty to do
  • Frank J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 24, 2025

    Belleplain State Forest

    Relatively new to this

    Stayed in site 116 in CCC section (only section with electric and water). Good privacy. Check-in went smoothly. Staff at office said all the roads in the CCC section were 2-way. Not wide enough in my opinion but we didn't have a problem. Restrooms/showers were ok. Sea Isle City is not too far away if you're into the Jersey shore, restaurants, live music.

  • A
    Jul. 23, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park At Delaware Beaches

    Great First Camping Trip

    My family tent camped for 1 night here at site 190. Decent array of electrical hookup options. My kids had a blast in the water area with the pool and large slides. It was our first time camping and we had trouble sleeping due to groups around us having fun until 11, but overall it was a really great experience and we will be returning

  • Joshua N.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort

    Some issues

    The campsite is very nice except for a few issues not have not been addressed over the many years we have been coming here. First, the WIFI is absolutely terrible! I have complained before and it never improves. 2nd, when we checked in, we were told that there currently no cable TV. We were told to stream which was terrible as I stated above. Last, there was an older gentleman that works there as a pool attendant. He told one of the guests that vaping is not allowed in the fenced area of the swimming lake in a scolding tone and told the guest that it's against the rules and that he did not make up the rules. He then ran off to find the woman in charge of the pools(her name is Marie). She came in hot on her golf cart like Bo Luke in the Dukes of Hazzard and came over to the guest and started yelling at the guest like she committed murder. Totally uncalled for!!! She has an absolutely terrible personality and should not be working in the hospitality industry. There were a few other staff members that were very rude towards guests(including us). When I'm paying over$1000 for a week here, I expect to be treated much better. We almost felt like we were bothering the staff. We have seen Marie many times over the years and never see any behavior changes. The staff could use a good training session on hospitality and appreciation that guests come here to relax and spend a lot of money here to do so, so they are employed.


Guide to Dover

Camping near Dover, Delaware, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and beautiful scenery. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful retreat, there are several campgrounds to check out.

What to do

  • Explore Nature Trails: Many campgrounds have trails for hiking and biking. At Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, one visitor shared, “This park has a LOT of activities: the beach, a nice nature center. Biking is hugely popular.”
  • Water Activities: If you enjoy water sports, Trap Pond State Park Campground is a great spot. A camper mentioned, “Canoes were available for rent & I highly recommend canoeing water trails through the beautiful Cypress trees.”
  • Wildlife Viewing: Campers at Lums Pond State Park Campground have spotted various wildlife. One reviewer noted, “Peaceful state park. Clean facilities and lots of room to spread out.”

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at Elk Neck State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms are immaculate.”
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. One camper at Trap Pond State Park Campground mentioned, “D Loop sites were a good size. Comes with a fire ring and picnic table.”
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A visitor at Martinak State Park Campground said, “The staff were super friendly and the bathrooms were kept clean.”

What you should know

  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Susquehanna State Park Campground pointed out, “The sites are fairly small and some of them are right on top of each other or have trails between them.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For instance, at Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, one camper noted, “The bathhouses were okay, hard to keep clean especially after the rain we got.”
  • Primitive Camping: If you’re looking for a more rustic experience, Tuckahoe State Park Campground offers primitive camping. One camper mentioned, “The campground was fully booked for the weekend but the other areas weren't crowded.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. At Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, a reviewer said, “There’s a playground right there.”
  • Plan for Bugs: Some areas can be buggy, especially near water. A camper at Lums Pond State Park Campground noted, “There are swampy areas so it is somewhat buggy at dawn and dusk.”
  • Bring Outdoor Games: Campgrounds often have open spaces for games. One camper at Trap Pond State Park Campground suggested, “The walking trails are nice and flat, great for biking.”

Tips from RVers

Camping around Dover, Delaware, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking a peaceful spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds in Dover, Delaware?

Dover offers several excellent camping options for travelers. Dover AFB Famcamp is a convenient option for those with Department of Defense identification, offering 10 full hook-up sites with water, electric, and sewage connections plus bath facilities. For families seeking more recreational activities, Killens Pond State Park Campground is nearby and features a water park during summer months. Those willing to drive a bit further can enjoy coastal camping at Delaware Seashore State Park or the wooded setting at Trap Pond State Park, known for its cypress trees and paddling opportunities.

How much does camping in Dover, Delaware typically cost?

Camping costs in the Dover area vary based on amenities and location. Trap Pond State Park Campground offers electric and water sites at moderate rates, with pull-through options in Loop D. Private campgrounds like Holly Lake Campsites charge around $60 per night for full hook-up sites. State parks generally offer the best value, with most sites ranging from $25-45 per night depending on hook-ups and season. Many campgrounds offer discounts for extended stays, and Delaware state parks typically charge additional entrance fees for non-residents. Prices tend to increase during peak summer season, especially at coastal locations.

What amenities are available at Dover campgrounds?

Dover area campgrounds offer varied amenities to suit different camping styles. Tall Pine Campground provides family-friendly facilities that appeal to younger campers. For water enthusiasts, Susquehanna State Park Campground offers river views and hiking trails. Most campgrounds in the region provide clean bathhouses with showers and toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Many state park campgrounds include electric hookups, water access, and dump stations for RVs. WiFi availability varies by location, with private campgrounds more likely to offer this amenity. Laundry facilities, camp stores, and playgrounds are common at larger establishments, while some also feature swimming areas, boat rentals, and fishing access.

Are there tent camping options near Dover?

Yes, several tent camping options exist near Dover. Delaware Seashore State Park Campground offers tent camping particularly on its south side, which is more tent-oriented than the north side. The park's proximity to beaches makes it popular with tent campers. For a wooded experience, Tuckahoe State Park Campground is within driving distance and offers walk-in tent sites alongside drive-up options. Tent campers should note that summer humidity can be significant in Delaware, and coastal sites often have limited shade. Most tent sites include a fire ring and picnic table, with access to communal bathhouses.