Horse camping near Bethany Beach, Delaware can be found approximately 5-10 miles north at Assateague Island National Seashore. The island's unique coastal ecosystem features salt marshes, maritime forests, and sandy beaches where temperatures range from 80-85°F in summer to 30-40°F in winter. The campground specifically designated for equestrians prohibits standard pets, requires advance planning for water access, and operates under different seasonal rules than standard camping areas.
What to do
Beach riding: Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground offers unique coastal riding opportunities with designated horse-friendly beach access. "Great spot for a secluded and quiet experience. I have seen horses everytime I have camped here. We always go during the winter or early spring months to avoid the bugs as they are awful during the spring and summer," notes Torie M.
Kayaking with horses in view: Launch from water access points to observe wild horses from a respectful distance. "My husband and son kayaked from the campground over to a lovely sand bar off of Assateague Island. They got within very close range of a herd of ponies grazing at low tide, hung out, and enjoyed their private slice of nature," shares Rita M. about her experience at Tom's Cove Park.
Trail exploration: Several miles of trails connect beach areas with inland riding routes. "Plenty of places to explore. Several trails to walk or bike. Be prepared for the bugs depending on the season. Some years we've had no issues, some years the flies were bad," advises Tony P. who frequented Assateague Oceanside.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing: Horse enthusiasts appreciate seeing both domestic and wild equines. "The wildlife is amazing. Ponies, deer, egrets, herons, eagles, and more can be seen while camping. The campground maintains a policy prohibiting pets in the horse camping section to avoid conflicts with equine guests," explains a visitor to the horse camping area.
Waterfront access: EA Vaughn Wildlife Management Area provides another option with trail access. "Lots of trails. Pretty busy with Hunters during the season," notes Wayne L., highlighting the mixed recreational use of this area near equestrian facilities.
Seasonal advantages: Many experienced equestrian campers recommend specific timing. "We were there on a Monday the week after Memorial Day and while the sites with the hookups were completely full, there were plenty of empty non-hookup sites," shares Lee D. about Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, which serves as an alternative when horse camping sites fill up.
What you should know
Bug preparation: Insect challenges vary by season and can affect both horses and humans. "Be prepared for the bugs. Even enjoyed this in the winter," warns Michael W. from Bayside Assateague Campground, adding that winter visits can minimize this issue.
Horse management: Campers must follow strict guidelines regarding feed storage and waste management. Overnight stabling requires portable corrals as permanent facilities aren't available at most locations.
Water access: Limited drinking water points require planning for horse hydration. One visitor noted, "Water availability for horses requires planning, as drinking water access points are limited within the horse camping area."
Tips for camping with families
Safety around horses: Teach children proper etiquette around equines. "Wild horses meandering through daily. Some sites are more private than others- some not private at all, so carefully review the map and the images when booking," recommends Danielle from Oceanside Assateague.
Backup activities: Trap Pond State Park Campground makes a good alternative when horse camping is full. "So much to do! Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," explains Lee D.
Weather planning: Coastal conditions can change rapidly. "Check the weather a lot because the storms roll in quickly. Facilities are simple but fine enough. The stars are night sky are gorgeous if it is clear," advises Tori V., highlighting the need for preparedness when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for trailers: Choose sites with adequate space for both living quarters and horse trailers. "All sites appeared level and some have a view of the pond. Bathhouses were very clean, including the showers," notes a reviewer at Martinak State Park Campground.
Hookup limitations: Horse camping areas typically offer fewer amenities than standard RV sites. "Sites have 30A electric and water with a nearby convenient dump station," notes Jim G. about a nearby alternative when horse-specific camping is unavailable.
Access considerations: Prepare for potentially challenging terrain. "The sites were awesome. Clean shower houses all day long. lots of activities for the kids and the water park was amazing. Best part was that even though it was hot the breeze off the bay made it so much nicer," shares Jason J., highlighting comfort factors important to RVers who also travel with horses.
