Delaware Seashore State Park Campground sits 11 miles north of Bethany Beach across two units divided by the Indian River Inlet. Campers enjoy direct beach access from both the north and south campgrounds, with sites on sandy ground that can experience strong coastal winds. The region receives average summer highs of 85°F with high humidity, making waterfront camping particularly refreshing during peak season.
What to do
Beach access and swimming: At Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, you'll find direct access to guarded beaches during summer months. "Just steps to the beach! There is direct access to the beach under the bridge where there are restaurants, concessions, and other activities at the Big Chill Beach Club," notes Lee D.
Fishing opportunities: The Indian River Inlet provides excellent fishing spots. "This is a popular fishing spot on the inlet," according to Lee D. Another camper mentions, "The fishing is great also," making it worth bringing your gear.
Kayaking on calm waters: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers tranquil paddling among bald cypress trees. "We loved the ability to stay in a peaceful campground with beautiful views and still be able to drive to the boardwalk and ocean beaches," writes Lee D. Another camper adds, "We also rented a boat and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved."
Wildlife viewing: Assateague State Park Campground provides opportunities to see wild horses. "The horses were magestic!!" reports Catherine S., while another camper appreciates "Wild horses with their new foals" as part of the beach camping experience.
What campers like
Modern facilities: Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay (formerly Massey's Landing) offers upscale amenities. "Everything at this resort is shiny and new... The Tiki Bar had amazing drinks and bar food. And the bartenders were super nice and accommodating," writes Erika S.
Beachfront camping: Many campers appreciate waking up near the ocean. "The best thing about this place are the sparkling clean bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot water showers. They also offer sinks with running hot water for washing dishes which makes more ambitious campsite cooking a breeze," notes Melanie about Assateague State Park Campground.
Family-oriented activities: Frontier Town offers extensive entertainment options. "This campground is very family friendly. There is so much to do. If you do go make sure you go for a week so you can try to do it all," advises Wilson G., highlighting the need for extended stays to experience everything.
Free amenities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected perks. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," reports Lee D. about Trap Pond State Park.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: At Delaware Seashore State Park, "There is NO privacy/separation between sites, however, 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."
Wildlife precautions: When camping at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, you'll find diverse wildlife. "None of the sites are level. Sites are mostly small and close together. The closer you are to the camp store, the louder and busier it is," notes Adam and Suzanne B.
Reservation requirements: Booking well ahead is essential for popular sites. "Tent sites were big with lots of choice locations for your tent. There is a lot of privacy between the tent sites because of the trees," reports Jennifer S. about Cape Henlopen State Park.
Weather preparedness: Coastal camping means dealing with wind and possible storms. "The winds were nuts and over 50mph. We switched sites to spare our slide side, so caution to look at windy before going," warns Joe R. about Delaware Seashore State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Sun Outdoors Ocean City (formerly Castaways) provides multiple water options. "Beautiful well equipped and appointed campground on the water facing the beautiful Assateague National Seashore... They have two separate beaches even a big one for your fur kids," shares Karen H.
Educational opportunities: Look for nature centers and programs. "Bring the bicycles, helmets are required... There is a fantastic nature center (FREE) complete with touch tanks and knowledgeable park staff," explains Lisa B. about Cape Henlopen State Park.
Playground access: Select sites near play areas. "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball)," suggests Lee D. about Trap Pond State Park.
Off-season benefits: Consider shoulder seasons for fewer crowds. "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet," reports Chris G. about camping at Cape Henlopen.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway (formerly Fort Whaley), "All sites are level and sand/grass. There are many trees and reasonable separation between sites (although you can easily see your neighbors)," notes Lee D.
Leveling challenges: Be prepared 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," warns Jim G. about Trap Pond State Park.
Hookup locations: Check connection placement before booking. "We stayed in the 'big rig' site within Club Castaway right on the water as we have a 40ft rig. Amenities are clean, staff friendly and helpful," reports Julie F. about Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
Transport options: Consider renting golf carts at larger campgrounds. "They have free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers... They also have wheelbarrows to borrow so if you have a drive up site you can use them," mentions Lucia B. about Trap Pond State Park.
