Glamping in Ocean View, Delaware offers a distinctive coastal camping experience with proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and inland bays. The region maintains average summer temperatures around 85°F with frequent afternoon sea breezes cooling camping areas. Delaware's eastern shore campgrounds often feature sandy soil that drains quickly after rain, creating firm ground for both tent and RV setups.
What to do
Kayak through cypress trees: At Trap Pond State Park Campground, rent kayaks to explore unique cypress tree stands. "My sons and I spent four nights on the island site and loved it. We walked around the pond and rented boats and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved. They got to spend the day learning to paddle on the pond," shared one visitor. The trails surrounding the pond offer additional hiking opportunities.
Explore historic military sites: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground features preserved World War II observation towers and bunkers. "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," notes a camper. Many structures are accessible for exploration with interpretive signs.
Free bicycle rentals: Several parks provide complimentary bike programs with various models available. "They also had a bike shed where you can sign out bikes for free for the day which was super neat," reports a Trap Pond camper. Trails range from paved paths to more challenging woodland routes, with helmets typically required throughout park systems.
What campers like
Private beaches: Sun Outdoors Ocean City offers direct beach access away from public crowds. "Beautiful location with lots of space for everyone. Great beach and tiki bar. Pools for the family and very pet friendly," writes one visitor. Many waterfront glamping sites include private paths to shore areas with morning beach time being notably less crowded.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife sightings across area campgrounds. "The camp ground has a small beach where they have bands playing on the weekends. Also a great place to crab right from your campsite or the beach," notes a camper at Treasure Beach RV Park & Campground. Bird watching is particularly productive along pond edges and marsh boundaries.
Extended check-out options: Many sites offer late departure for additional fees. "We LOVE it and always hate to leave even though we pay the $25 to stay to 8pm on departure day, it's never long enough," shares a Treasure Beach visitor. This flexibility allows for maximizing final day activities without rushing morning departures.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Cape Henlopen State Park fills quickly during summer months. "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," advises one visitor. Booking windows typically open 3-6 months in advance for peak season.
Site privacy varies significantly: Campground layouts offer different levels of seclusion. "If you're going to camp at one of the RV sites, you'd better have an RV. They are neither RTT nor tent friendly. The sites are packed in so closely that if you don't have the privacy of a camper, everyone will see your business," cautions a Cape Henlopen reviewer. Research site maps before booking to find more secluded options.
Golf cart prevalence: Many larger resorts have high cart traffic. "Be warned, there are a lot of people on golf carts hauling ass throughout the property. I wish there were some sort of common sense/decency test people had to pass before being allowed to drive golf carts," notes a visitor at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay. Some campgrounds restrict operating hours or require additional rental fees.
Tips for camping with families
Free recreation equipment: Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway provides complimentary sports gear. "The daytime activities for kids were fun as well and my son even 'set the alarm' so he wouldn't miss out on tie dyeing a t-shirt. They also have a variety of sporting goods to borrow at the store, horseshoes, basketballs, and whiffle ball sets to name a few," explains a visitor. Check activity schedules upon arrival for organized events.
Water activities for different ages: Family-friendly water features cater to various skill levels. "Our 4th of July family camping trip at Treasure Beach RV Park in Fenwick Island, DE was outstanding. The pool was a big hit with our kids, who spent hours each day swimming and making new friends. Additionally, the early morning kayaking allowed the kiddos to explore the safe, surrounding waters," shares a camper.
Dog-friendly options: Multiple campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members. "Best of all, the campsite is dog friendly! Our two dogs love it here - the smells, trails, the nice people, the water bowl outside of the camp store. The beaches also allow dogs, depending on the season or time of day," reports a Cape Henlopen visitor. Check specific beach access rules which typically restrict dogs during peak daytime hours.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Uneven terrain requires preparation at certain parks. "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," notes a Trap Pond visitor. Bring additional leveling blocks for sandy areas.
Size restrictions at primitive sites: Redden State Forest Campground limits vehicle types. "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," explains a camper. This offers a quieter glamping alternative near Ocean View for smaller rigs.
Site selection for amenities: Electrical options vary widely between locations. "Make sure that you input your trailer length to find a site that fits as they vary. If you want the experience of driving on the beach - go for it!" advises a Cape Henlopen camper. Water and electric hookups are standard at most developed sites, but amp capacity differs between loops.
