Camping sites near Houston, Delaware offer year-round opportunities with distinct inland and coastal options. The area sits at low elevation with mostly flat terrain and sandy soils throughout the region. Winter camping remains viable at several locations including Trap Pond State Park Campground where campers find heated bathrooms and shower facilities even during colder months.
What to do
Kayaking through cypress trees: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers a unique paddling experience among bald cypress trees. "The kayaking in this area is beautiful. The historic aspect of the Cape amazed me. It was a site for WWII soldiers to watch for enemy invaders. The towers are still there," reports one visitor at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Free bike rentals: Several parks provide complimentary bicycles for exploring trails. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," notes a camper at Trap Pond State Park Campground.
Water park access: For families seeking structured water activities beyond beaches, some campgrounds feature dedicated water facilities. "My family tent camped for 1 night here at site 190. My kids had a blast in the water area with the pool and large slides," shares a visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park At Delaware Beaches.
What campers like
Beach proximity options: Camping locations provide varied distances to coastal access. "The location is 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," explains a reviewer at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Swimming pool amenities: Many private campgrounds offer pool facilities with additional features. "They have a beautiful heated pool, waterfront tiki bar, on site store and restaurant, kayak and golf cart rental and they seem to be adding more every year!" shares a camper at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay.
Wooded seclusion: Inland camping provides more tree cover and natural surroundings. "Secluded. Spacious sites. Firewood available. No facilities. Quiet," notes a visitor at Redden State Forest Campground, giving campers seeking solitude an alternative to busier coastal sites.
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Securing spots during peak season requires advance planning. "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," explains a Cape Henlopen visitor.
Seasonal operation variations: Campground schedules vary significantly across the region. "This campground is large and spots are close together and crowded during summer beach weekends. The owners are wonderful, the facilities are well maintained," shares a visitor at Big Oaks Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience more activity than others. "Quiet campground is quite big and basic. Sites are large and shaded. Bathrooms are basic showers are ok but hot water is limited at times," reports a Killens Pond State Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "There is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball). There is an additional playground in the day-use area, plus a volleyball net," notes a Trap Pond visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Structured programs keep children entertained. "The campground is great if you're looking for a resort feel with its museum, bike friendly trails, frisbee golf, beach, etc.," explains a camper at Cape Henlopen State Park.
Family-sized sites: Some locations offer more spacious accommodations. "We loved our stay! A quick drive to the beaches and a gorgeous rail trail! Everyone was extremely friendly and welcoming which was the biggest selling point for us. Upon check in we were greeted by the friendliest man who made us feel right at home," shares a visitor at Tall Pine Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds require preparation for uneven terrain. "Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required. They are not level and have a sandy base so it took a bit of work to finally get the rig level, even with auto-levelers," advises an RV camper at Trap Pond.
Size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles. "The roads through the campsite are a bit tight, but we were able to navigate our 37 foot motorhome. Most of the sites are seasonal campers, and the transient sites are scattered throughout the campground," notes a visitor at Deep Branch Family Campground.
Hookup variations: Electric and water connections differ between locations. "Sites have 30A electric and water with a nearby convenient dump station. Being near the water means the bugs really came out at night so make sure to turn off the outside lights after dark," suggests a Trap Pond visitor.
