Tent camping near Clayton, Delaware centers primarily around state forest lands within a 30-mile radius. The region's flat coastal plain topography keeps most campsites at elevations below 100 feet, with warm, humid summers and moderate spring and fall seasons. Most primitive sites in the area are situated among loblolly pine and oak forests that provide natural shade during summer months when temperatures typically range from 75-90°F.
What to do
Hunting season awareness: At Redden State Forest Campground, camping coexists with seasonal hunting activities. "Hunting is allowed at this site so be mindful of that. Hunting is prohibited on Sundays," notes camper Tiffany M., making Sunday the safest day for hiking.
Hiking trails: The forest setting offers walking paths, though some require navigation skills. One camper at Redden mentioned, "There are trails to hike, but they weren't marked well enough for this first timer so I didn't explore much." For better-marked trails, Group Camp — Ridley Creek State Park offers "well marked trails great for hiking," according to Mackenzie B.
Water activities: For tent campers willing to travel approximately 35 miles, Shellbay Campgrounds provides access to coastal recreation. "It was within biking distance of the beaches at Stone Harbor, Wildwood, and Cape May," states Christopher E., making it a good base for day trips to the shore.
What campers like
Secluded camping experience: Campers consistently mention the privacy at forest campsites. At Redden State Forest, Fern B. simply describes the camping as "Secluded. Spacious sites. Firewood available." This reinforces the appeal for those seeking quieter camping experiences.
Honor system firewood: Blackbird State Forest Campground offers a convenient firewood system. "Firewood was easy to get and was plenty of it," reports John C., who stayed at site BO1. Similarly at Redden, campers access firewood through a self-serve system, though it's not free.
Campsite spacing: The layout at Blackbird State Forest receives positive mentions. Sarah M. notes, "Only 8 sites in the campground, very spaced apart. Each site has lots of room, very much enjoyed our stay and will return!" This makes these sites ideal for campers seeking separation from neighbors.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Unlike in past years, Redden State Forest now requires advance planning. "This is no longer a first come, first served campground. Reservations must be made in advance at bookyoursite.com, only 3 days consecutive allowed," explains BA K., who paid $28 per night in March.
Vehicle restrictions: Size limitations exist at Redden State Forest. According to BA K., "Travel trailers, pull behinds, motorhomes are not allowed. Tents, cars, overlander SUVs, minivans and small Class B camper vans are allowed. Nothing over 25 ft allowed."
Limited facilities: Most forest campsites offer minimal amenities. "There is no water, no electric, no bathroom. This is primitive camping/boondocking. This is a 'leave no trace, carry in/carry out' facility," explains one Redden camper, highlighting the self-sufficient nature required.
Tips for camping with families
Youth group options: For organized youth activities, Sandy Point State Park Youth Group Camping offers dedicated facilities. Rachel S. describes it as having "pavilions for social gatherings, showers and bathrooms that are kept pretty very clean, and room for backpacking, hiking, picnicking, but youth group camping only."
Tent surface considerations: At Redden State Forest, the camping surfaces vary by site location. Evan C. notes, "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... can't get stakes in." For families with traditional tents requiring stakes, this is important.
Timing your visit: For less crowded experiences, especially at coastal campgrounds, consider off-peak timing. At Sandy Point State Park, Tony P. advises, "Extremely over crowded in the summer. The park closes daily very early as it hits capacity. The best times to go are winter, spring, and fall."
Tips from RVers
Campsite navigation: At Redden State Forest, the entrance system requires specific directions. According to Andrew, "After going past the office you will take a right to get to a closed yellow gate which you will open and close behind you yourself. After going through the gate hang right at the Y and all the sites are down there."
Space limitations: Andrew continues with practical advice for larger vehicles: "Be mindful if you have a big rig there is nowhere to turn around or hookups so plan accordingly when getting to your site." This makes advance planning essential for those with larger camping setups.
Alternative access options: For those with boats, Tinicum Island offers unique camping opportunities within reasonable distance of Clayton. Bobby S. simply states, "A great place to stay if you have a watercraft," providing an alternative camping option for RVers who also transport boats.
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