Pet friendly camping near Dagsboro, Delaware offers a diverse range of experiences across Delaware and Maryland's coastal areas. Dagsboro sits at just 26 feet above sea level, creating a flat coastal plain perfect for easy campsite setup. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping brings more moderate conditions with temperatures ranging from 50-75°F.
What to do
Beach access with privacy: At Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, campers can enjoy both ocean and bay sides. "The south side has over 300 campsites, some with hookups and some without. I don't know what the difference is between the designated tent sites and the sites with no hookups," notes Lee D. The park offers direct beach access with "restaurants, concessions, and other activities at the Big Chill Beach Club."
Fishing opportunities: The bay side provides calmer waters perfect for pet-friendly fishing excursions. "We went to the bay side for the kids no waves," shares Rich E. Many sites offer direct water access where pets can join their owners. Delaware Seashore is "a popular fishing spot on the inlet" according to reviews.
Wild horse viewing: Assateague State Park Campground offers unique wildlife viewing alongside pet-friendly camping. "Family friendly, clean, spacious, wonderful outdoor showers and sink for washing dishes," shares Catherine S. The wild ponies are the main attraction with one camper noting, "Wild horses meandering through daily" and another mentioning "There are so many opportunities to view wildlife, including the wild ponies which the park is known for."
What campers like
Campground activities: Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway provides numerous on-site options for dogs and their owners. "There is an arcade, camp store, heated pool, playground, dog park, and mini golfing!" mentions Randi J. Another camper adds, "They also have a small skateboard/BMX ramp area, as well as a very cute dog park with their own playground equipment."
Spacious pet-friendly sites: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers well-spaced sites that accommodate pets. "All are level and sand/grass. There are many trees and reasonable separation between sites," notes Lee D. Another reviewer mentions, "Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required."
Night atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer evening entertainment pets and owners can enjoy together. "At night time the pool is lit up with different lights, the pool nearest the swim up bar is heated and the live band plays till about 10 pm," shares one camper about Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay. At Delaware Seashore, one camper enjoyed "the bridge was lit up blue" at night, creating a peaceful evening atmosphere for walks.
What you should know
Pet restrictions at beaches: While most campgrounds welcome pets, beach access often has seasonal restrictions. At Assateague Island National Seashore, "The Island is not far from Ocean City either if you wish to go to the Board walk which we did experience one night." Be aware that "some years we've had no issues, some years the flies were bad. The mosquitos are kept at bay with bug spray are citronella candles."
Reservation timing: Popular pet-friendly campgrounds fill quickly. "I would recommend this to anyone who wants to camp along the water and listen to the waves hitting the shoreline however booking must be done in advance as reservations fill up very fast every season," warns Anthony S. about Assateague.
Weather considerations: Coastal camping means dealing with wind and storms. "Prepare for lots of wind. Check the weather a lot because the storms roll in quickly," advises Tori V. The exposed sites offer little protection for pets during sudden weather changes, so monitor forecasts regularly.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for all ages: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers varied water options for families with pets. "There are miles upon miles of walking and biking trails. There are nice play facilities for kids, loads of water and beach access," writes Lisa B. Another camper mentions the "Great fishing, with a large open pier complete with well stocked, well informed and reasonably priced tackle shop on the pier."
Free activities: Many parks offer no-cost recreation that includes pets. "Free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers," notes one Cape Henlopen visitor. At Trap Pond, "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals."
Educational opportunities: Nature centers and historical sites enhance family visits. Cape Henlopen has "a fantastic nature center (FREE) complete with touch tanks and knowledgeable park staff" and "as a former military installation, there are lots of military historical items and sites."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: For longer stays with pets, select campgrounds with complete utilities. At Delaware Seashore, "the hookup sites have paved camper pads (and are also level)." Sites vary considerably between campgrounds, so confirm specifics before booking.
Site privacy considerations: RVers should consider neighbor proximity when traveling with pets. At Cape Henlopen, one camper notes, "If you're going to camp at one of the RV sites, you'd better have an RV. They are neither RTT nor tent friendly. The sites are packed in so closely that if you don't have the privacy of a camper, everyone will see your business."
Length restrictions: Be aware of size limitations when bringing larger RVs to pet-friendly campgrounds. "If you have a trailer, make sure that you input your trailer length to find a site that fits as they vary," advises one Cape Henlopen camper. Many sites can accommodate big rigs but require advance research to ensure proper fit.
