Fenwick Island camping areas typically maintain moderate temperatures ranging from 55-85°F through camping season, with higher humidity levels along the coastal regions. The nearby 1,485-acre Assateague Island National Seashore offers a stark contrast to the resort-style accommodations found in Fenwick proper, with more rustic camping opportunities among coastal maritime forests. Most campsites in the region remain open from mid-April through mid-October with extended seasons at select parks.
What to do
Explore cypress forests by kayak: Trap Pond State Park Campground features one of the northernmost natural stands of bald cypress trees in the United States, accessible by water trail. "The hiking trail (Bob Trail) can also be used for biking. Since it's just about all in the shade it wasn't bad for them. We also rented a kayak; awesome activity to do around the lake," shares a visitor at Trap Pond State Park Campground.
Visit wild ponies: Located about 15 minutes from Ocean City, Sun Outdoors Frontier Town provides convenient access to Assateague Island. "Located about 15 min from ocean city and assateague with a shuttle to take you when you don't want to drive. Great family activities. We love the water park and Frontier town. I recommend it to anyone looking for a new place to check out," notes one camper at Sun Outdoors Frontier Town.
Spend time on freshwater lakes: Island Resort Campground offers both ocean proximity and lakefront recreation. "They have a nice swimming pool and canoes and kayaks you can rent. Very close to Ocean City beaches. Lots of restaurants and supermarkets near by," mentions a reviewer who enjoyed the combination of lake and ocean access at this campground.
What campers like
Modern bathroom facilities: Campers consistently praise the updated facilities at Sun Outdoors Ocean City. "They have updated some of the bath houses and are currently updating some of their sites. We were here over the Memorial Day holiday and the place was packed! Still, it was a fun and relaxing weekend," notes a reviewer at Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
Swimming options beyond beaches: Many campgrounds in the area maintain private pools that provide alternatives to crowded beaches. "There are a short to moderate hiking trails and the pond is popular for kayaks. Being near the water means the bugs really came out at night so make sure to turn off the outside lights after dark," advises a Trap Pond State Park visitor.
Access to multiple recreation areas: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers diverse landscapes within a single park. "There are miles upon miles of walking and biking trails. There are nice play facilities for kids, loads of water and beach access. Great fishing, with a large open pier complete with well stocked, well informed and reasonably priced tackle shop on the pier," comments a visitor at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
What you should know
Booking timeline: The popularity of Fenwick Island area campgrounds requires advance planning. "We used to camp here every year as a family when I was younger. We started camping here when it first open, they have cabins you can rent some in land and some on the water," mentions a longtime visitor of Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
Seasonal considerations: Camping conditions vary significantly throughout the season. "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet. I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early," notes a visitor of Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Yurt camping options near Fenwick Island: Several parks offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to traditional camping. "Trap Pond State Park Campground offers four loops plus cabins and yurts. All sites appeared level and some have a view of the pond," reports one camper about the yurt camping near Fenwick Island, Delaware area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for family-oriented activities: Sun Outdoors Frontier Town arranges programmed activities for children. "This is our favorite campground! It is close enough to ocean city we can enjoy the beach daily but far enough to relax in the woods! This campground is the small sister campground to frontier town. They have a free shuttle bus to provide transportation to assateaque island, frontier town, and ocean city," shares a parent at Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
Consider free amenities: Many campgrounds offer included activities that reduce vacation costs. "They have free mini golf, free pool and waterside, free canoeing, and free billiards. It is about 20 min to ocean city but they have a free bus to take you to ocean. Great prices nice staff," notes a visitor about Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
Check for kid-friendly beach access: Treasure Beach RV Park offers specialized beach areas for families. "Treasure Beach is one of our favorite campgrounds in Delaware. Beautiful sites on the water and a lot of activities for the kids. They have a small beach where they have bands playing on the weekends. Two nice pools, one for adults. Jumping pillow, water balloons and a nice playground for kids," explains a camper at Treasure Beach RV Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Reserve premium waterfront sites early: Waterfront RV sites throughout the region book quickly. "We stayed in a large cabin with another family. The cabin was very nice western themed. There is a camp store that is slightly pricey, but expected, a saloon, an ice cream shoppe, an AWESOME waterpark, and the theme park," shares an RV camper about Sun Outdoors Frontier Town.
Check site dimensions carefully: Many campgrounds have varied site dimensions. "If you have a trailer, make sure that you input your trailer length to find a site that fits as they vary. Close to food. Staff very friendly. Tons of stuff to do - will return when we have more time," advises a camper at Shad Landing Campground.
Consider alternative yurt camping in Fenwick Island: For those without RVs, yurt rentals provide a comfortable option. "Sites are all a good size and even though the campsite is usually always packed, everyone is super friendly and respectful of each other. People respect the rules and keep to themselves, but will wave and say hello a lot in passing," notes a Cape Henlopen State Park Campground visitor about their camping environment.
