Fenwick Island camping spots range from wooded inland sites to beachfront options across a 30-mile radius. Delaware state parks and private campgrounds operate in this coastal region where the mainland elevation averages just 10-30 feet above sea level. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions between 65-75°F with reduced crowds.
What to do
Kayak through bald cypress trees: Trap Pond State Park, located 30 miles from Fenwick Island, offers a unique paddling experience through North America's northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees. "We stayed for one night but would definitely consider returning at a time when we could rent a boat to be able to see the Cypress trees up close," mentions one visitor to Trap Pond State Park Campground.
Explore military history: Cape Henlopen State Park preserves historic WWII military installations. "As a former military installation, there are lots of military historical items and sites. Underground bunkers and batteries and such. There's a wonderful observation tower built on top of one of these that affords beautiful 360 degree views and photo opportunities," notes a camper at Cape Henlopen.
Experience the Wild West: At Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, just 15 minutes from Fenwick beaches, families enjoy themed entertainment. "They have western old time plays, skits, and activities. The ability to rent golf carts is a super cool bonus especially to get the surroundings," shares a visitor to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town.
What campers like
Private beach access: Several campgrounds near Fenwick Island offer direct water access. At Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay, "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!" according to one camper.
Wildlife encounters: Assateague Island National Seashore provides opportunities to camp near wild horses. "We camped in the Oceanside loop B. Right on the beach, but big dunes between sites and the ocean. Wild horses meandering through daily," reports a visitor to Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground.
Outdoor recreation options: Campgrounds offer various activities beyond beach access. "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," notes a camper about Treasure Beach RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Shoulder season advantages: Most coastal campgrounds operate April through October, but visiting in spring or fall offers better availability. "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," shares a camper at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic, especially in marshier locations. "It's beautiful here, horses are cool, beach is great, but the bugs stink! Bring some deet it's the only thing that works!" warns a visitor to Assateague Island.
Wildlife precautions: Campers should secure food items, especially at sites with wild horses. "The Ponies are giant trash pandas. They're smart and can open latches so do bring bungee cords, kayak straps, or ratchet straps to lock all of your food in cases or coolers," advises an Assateague Island camper.
Tips for camping with families
Free transportation services: Some campgrounds provide shuttles to beaches and attractions. "They have a free shuttle bus to provide transportation to assateaque island, frontier town, and ocean city," notes a visitor to Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
Site selection for noise concerns: Position your site away from common areas for quieter evenings. "The closer you are to the camp store, the louder and busier it is. Lots of kids. If you want quiet stay to the ends of the rows. E and F are quieter too," recommends a Cape Henlopen visitor.
Recreational equipment access: Many campgrounds provide free or low-cost recreational equipment. "The main pavilion has rentals for recreational equipment at no extra cost (hula hoops, balls, etc.)," mentions a camper at Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in this coastal region have uneven sites. "Sites 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," notes a visitor to Trap Pond State Park.
Waterfront site considerations: Waterfront RV sites offer scenic views but often have exposure issues. At Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, "Sites were very well marked. Friendly staff. Beautiful views. Ocean was a short 5 minute walk from our campsite. Sites were a bit tight; I believe online it says they're 45x30 but I find that hard to believe. Our trailer is almost 38 feet and we only had a little room left over."
Off-peak value: RV sites are more spacious and peaceful during weekdays and shoulder seasons. "We were there on a Monday the week after Memorial Day and while the sites with the hookups were completely full, there were plenty of empty non-hookup sites," reports a Delaware Seashore visitor.
