Tent campsites near Millsboro, Delaware provide access to both coastal and woodland environments without established facilities on site. Most camping options require advance planning and self-sufficiency, with temperatures ranging from 30-90°F throughout the year depending on season. The region features a mix of flat, sandy coastal terrain and inland pine forests with elevations generally below 60 feet above sea level.
What to do
Hiking at Assateague Island: The Pine Tree Backcountry Site requires a 6-mile hike from the ranger station, offering solitude and natural surroundings. "This was an excellent campsite at the perfect time of year. No insects, great weather. 5 sites each with a picnic table and fire pit. Only 3 were used the night I was there," notes Jacob at Pine Tree Backcountry Site.
Swimming and beach activities: Shellbay Campgrounds provides convenient access to multiple beaches. "We stayed here because it was within biking distance of the beaches at Stone Harbor, Wildwood, and Cape May," reports Christopher E., who visited with his tent during Labor Day weekend.
Forest exploration: Campers at Redden State Forest can access trails, though some visitors report navigation challenges. "There are trails to hike, but they weren't marked well enough for this first timer so I didn't explore much," explains Tiffany M., highlighting the need for better orientation skills when visiting Redden State Forest Campground.
What campers like
Affordability and honor system: Redden State Forest offers reasonable rates for basic amenities. "Wood was cheaper than usual (5 dollars per bundle) and is located under a self-serve honor system payment across from site 3," explains andrew, noting the convenient firewood access despite minimal facilities.
Safety for solo travelers: Some sites provide secure environments even for those camping alone. "Loved my overnight camping trip! I camped alone and felt very safe. The campsites are small and close together. A total of 7 campsites," reports Tiffany M., who appreciated the secure feeling at Shellbay Campgrounds.
Proximity to amenities: Many campsites balance natural settings with access to necessities. "Where this little area shines is in its proximity to Lewes and Cape Henlopen. A small 25-35 minute drive gets you most places you would need minus the bustle of being in town," notes andrew about Redden State Forest, highlighting the balance between seclusion and convenience.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Policies have changed at some campgrounds. "This is no longer a first come, first served campground. Reservations must be made in advance at bookyoursite.com, only 3 days consecutive allowed. I stayed in March, paid $28 per night," explains BA K. regarding Redden State Forest Campground.
Vehicle restrictions: Size limitations exist at certain campgrounds. "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," warns BA K. about Redden State Forest regulations.
Noise considerations: Despite natural settings, some campgrounds experience noise interference. "Great campsite. Clean, feels safe, good open space, nice seating, pretty level, and wood on site. Only complaint is the train that's right next door and you can here the traffic on the busy road not too far away," notes Madison S. about her otherwise positive experience.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Some campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. "I remember my excitement to go camping, meet other kids at the campground, and have plenty of things to do close by (beach, shopping, swimming pool)," recalls Alyssa D. about her childhood visits to Shellbay Campgrounds.
Campsite selection: When tent camping with families, consider site spacing and facilities. "The tent sites were close together and since it was Labor Day weekend it was pretty full. There were a lot of things for kids to do but it was not the kind of camp ground for peace and quiet," explains Christopher E. about his experience at Shellbay.
Seasonal timing: Visit during off-peak times for better experiences. "Not sure what the other review is about, but this is a ~6 mile hike-in campsite that is first-come first served by showing up at the ranger station when it opens day of... No insects, great weather," Jacob notes about his perfectly-timed visit to Pine Tree Backcountry Site.
Tips from RVers
Tent pad surfaces: Different campground areas offer varying tent setup conditions. "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," reports Evan C. about Redden State Forest Campground, noting "can't get stakes in" on gravel sites.
Site navigation: Understanding campground layouts helps with arrival planning. "The gate system was a little strange and what previous reviewers had written was helpful because everything is pretty much done as self check in with no one to really ask questions to. 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," explains andrew, providing specific directions for new visitors.
Cell service: Remote work capability varies by location. "Verizon 2-3 bars, consistently," reports BA K. about Redden State Forest, helpful information for those needing to stay connected while camping.
