Best Campgrounds near Smyrna, DE

Camping options near Smyrna, Delaware include several established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius, offering a mix of tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin accommodations. Blackbird State Forest Campground, located directly in Smyrna, provides primitive camping with basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings, though it is currently closed until further notice. Lums Pond State Park Campground in nearby Bear features more developed facilities with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities, making it suitable for both tent and RV camping. Delaware state parks dominate the camping landscape in this region, with Killens Pond State Park to the south offering year-round camping with electric hookups and cabin options.

Access to campgrounds in the Smyrna area varies by season, with most state park facilities open year-round but experiencing higher demand during summer months. Many campsites require advance reservations, particularly on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The terrain throughout the region is generally flat with sandy or clay soil that can become muddy after rainfall. Cell service is typically reliable at most established campgrounds, though coverage may vary in more remote areas. Facilities at state parks are generally well-maintained, with most offering clean bathhouses and hookups for RVs. According to one visitor at Killens Pond State Park, "The park seemed nice but the campground was a clay, dirt, sand, silt surface with ravines from rain. I spent hours trying to get sand out of the camper days after my exit."

Campers frequently mention the spacious sites and natural surroundings as highlights of Delaware state parks near Smyrna. Lums Pond State Park receives positive reviews for its well-maintained facilities and proximity to hiking trails around the pond. One reviewer noted, "This was our first time here and it's only an hour from home. I was hopeful for another nice DE state park and I wasn't disappointed. All DE parks are nicely laid out. There were shaded spots and sunny spots." Water activities are popular at several nearby campgrounds, with Lums Pond offering fishing and boating opportunities. For military families, Dover Air Force Base Famcamp provides a convenient option with full hookups. Most developed campgrounds in the area feature fire rings, picnic tables, and access to potable water, with varying levels of electric and sewer hookups depending on the specific campground.

Best Camping Sites Near Smyrna, Delaware (101)

    1. Lums Pond State Park Campground

    48 Reviews
    Kirkwood, DE
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 368-6989

    $22 - $40 / night

    "Great place to stay and check out “Lower, slower Delaware.”"

    "Near an Ape Adventure park, hike around lake, and any shopping or restaurants you might want are close by. It rained heavy so we didn’t get out much but walk around camp loop is nice and flat."

    2. Elk Neck State Park Campground

    60 Reviews
    Perryville, MD
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 287-5333

    $21 - $55 / night

    "I didn't notice it when I was in my tent, but I did as I was walking around.

    The campground is well-wooded, offering reasonable privacy given the space constraints. "

    "Surrounding area

    There are lots of tails for hiking in walking distance and also a playground for kids."

    3. Blackbird State Forest Campground - CLOSED TIL FURTHER NOTICE

    6 Reviews
    Townsend, DE
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 653-6505

    $25 / night

    "The only thing about this site specifically is the trail was close by so you’d occasionally see people walking by but not enough that it didn’t still feel secluded."

    "I was only one in the forest ATM but saw some hikers occasionally throughout the day walking by."

    4. Killens Pond State Park Campground

    23 Reviews
    Felton, DE
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 284-4526

    $22 - $89 / night

    "First time staying overnight at a campground in Delaware. The cabins are tiny on the inside but that porch really provides very useful space.
    No paper towels, soap or kitchen utensils."

    "Delaware seemed short on camping options and this one was probably top of the line 40 years ago. It's dated in every way, but it's in a good spot.

    Seemed to have some residents mixed in."

    5. Tuckahoe State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Ridgely, MD
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 820-1668

    $21 - $70 / night

    "Tuckahoe State Park is tucked away onto the Eastern Shore of Maryland, close to the Chesapeake Bay. It features every kind of camping you can imagine."

    "It is less than 40 mins from Annapolis and close to DC and Baltimore.   Yet it is isolated and quiet.  There’s some great trails as well as walking between the camp loops and picnic areas.  "

    6. Canoein’ Sue’s

    2 Reviews
    Kennedyville, MD
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (443) 837-7977

    $42 - $52 / night

    7. Dover AFB Famcamp

    2 Reviews
    Little Creek, DE
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 677-3959

    $8 - $20 / night

    8. Susquehanna State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Edgewood, MD
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 557-7994

    $21 - $50 / night

    "Had a great weekend trip here, close to DC and Delaware. Wonderful hiking trails with river views. Only caveat- got pretty muddy since it rained the day before and our site didn’t have a tent pad."

    "I was a walk-up with no reservation and since it was a weekday the ranger gave me a great rundown of the best spots in the camp and let me drive through to check them out before going back with my decision"

    9. Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park - Elmer

    10 Reviews
    Elmer, NJ
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (856) 451-7479

    "They are new-ish Shasta campers, queen bed, 1 slide, rear bunks, 2 entrances. Very clean. Water area is great, splash pad is very fun so is the large blow up slide and pool area."

    "I think the lale could use a little cleanup with the amount of bobbers, string and mess left behind by people. There have ao many cabins its crazy and alot of seasonal rentals."

    10. Cape Henlopen State Park Campground

    67 Reviews
    Lewes, DE
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 645-2103

    $30 - $99 / night

    "Cape henlopen is one of five or six Delaware state parks that offer RV camping. Sites vary in size so make sure you check the details before you book."

    "My group was there, on two adjacent sites, from Sunday to Tuesday, in early June. The weather could not have been more ideal! We were on sites G12 and G13, which were both really large."

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Recent Reviews near Smyrna, DE

675 Reviews of 101 Smyrna Campgrounds


  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Brandywine Creek Campground

    Brandywine

    We are on the third week of a four week trip. Campground is well maintained, quiet. This was our home while exploring Philadelphia. Uber to Downgrown, Septa or Amtrak to town. Reverse to camp. Very enjoyable. Hickory nut tree beside camper shared at times.

  • Werner S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Elk Neck State Park Campground

    More than correct stay for a pass through or short period

    Check in at the store (without reservation), went very smooth. Only the north east loop was open because it was calm. All spots are full hook up, all fine. There was a small play area for the kids and the restrooms/ shower where clean. No complaints.

  • Tiffany P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Ocean View Resort Campground

    Lots of fun

    This place had a lot to do with kids! Lake, pool, ice cream, arcade, mini golf, mining station, activities. Does get very crowded and definitely have to book a head. We loved where our site was located. Will definitely be visiting again.

  • Evan C.
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Redden State Forest Campground

    Secluded and improving

    8/15/2025

    Arrived after dark to find that I had the campground to myself. As noted in other reviews, turn right as you drive past the office/house and let yourself in through the closed (but unlocked) gate. 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. The restroom featured on the map is just a portalet, but there is plenty of overflow parking in that branch. Apparently you're not supposed to pull onto the gravel with your vehicle, just park parallel to the road alongside it. 

    Another note about the gravel - can't get stakes in. Plus, it's a pine forest and I didn't want to get sap on my tent so I didn't tent adjacent to the pad amidst the pine needles. I did drive around the right branch (sites 1-7) in the morning to find that they are dirt/grass sites and probably would be ideal for tenting/staking (and in case you haven't guessed, I don't have a freestanding tent). The area is densely forested with pines and is quite pleasant in that regard.

  • C
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort

    Pros and cons

    We have been to this campground twice. First time everything was very clean and lots to do. The last time things had slipped a little bit. Campground was definitely not as clean. The first time there was staff riding around picking up garbage and keeping things neat. Last time it seemed like it was just a bunch of teenagers flying around on golf carts not doing much. Almost all the games were broken in the arcade. Plus a lot more seasonals. The seasonals also have a lot of political flags with profanities. Not very family friendly! Pros love the pool, lake, waterslides, and proximity to cape may Cons broken equipment, kids racing golf carts all hours of the nights, lots of seasonals with over the top decorations, with flags with profanities and cleanliness slipping. We will try it again. Hopefully they were just having an off year.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2025

    Lums Pond State Park Campground

    A Gem Among State Campgrounds

    We spent a long weekend with family at Lums Pond State Park Campground and so glad we did. 

    We paid $46 per night plus fees for a FHU 50 Amp Back-in site(#56). 

    This place is a gem, even among nice state parks. 

    THINGS I LIKED: 

    • Easy access from I-95 

    • Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved 

    • Friendly and helpful staff 

    • Great state park with lots to do (kayaking, biking, and more) 

    THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE SO MUCH: 

    • There’s nothing we didn’t like about this place 

    WOULD WE COME BACK? 

    • Absolutely, this is a nice place with plenty to do
  • Frank J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 24, 2025

    Belleplain State Forest

    Relatively new to this

    Stayed in site 116 in CCC section (only section with electric and water). Good privacy. Check-in went smoothly. Staff at office said all the roads in the CCC section were 2-way. Not wide enough in my opinion but we didn't have a problem. Restrooms/showers were ok. Sea Isle City is not too far away if you're into the Jersey shore, restaurants, live music.

  • A
    Jul. 23, 2025

    Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park At Delaware Beaches

    Great First Camping Trip

    My family tent camped for 1 night here at site 190. Decent array of electrical hookup options. My kids had a blast in the water area with the pool and large slides. It was our first time camping and we had trouble sleeping due to groups around us having fun until 11, but overall it was a really great experience and we will be returning

  • Joshua N.
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Sun Retreats Seashore Campsites & RV Resort

    Some issues

    The campsite is very nice except for a few issues not have not been addressed over the many years we have been coming here. First, the WIFI is absolutely terrible! I have complained before and it never improves. 2nd, when we checked in, we were told that there currently no cable TV. We were told to stream which was terrible as I stated above. Last, there was an older gentleman that works there as a pool attendant. He told one of the guests that vaping is not allowed in the fenced area of the swimming lake in a scolding tone and told the guest that it's against the rules and that he did not make up the rules. He then ran off to find the woman in charge of the pools(her name is Marie). She came in hot on her golf cart like Bo Luke in the Dukes of Hazzard and came over to the guest and started yelling at the guest like she committed murder. Totally uncalled for!!! She has an absolutely terrible personality and should not be working in the hospitality industry. There were a few other staff members that were very rude towards guests(including us). When I'm paying over$1000 for a week here, I expect to be treated much better. We almost felt like we were bothering the staff. We have seen Marie many times over the years and never see any behavior changes. The staff could use a good training session on hospitality and appreciation that guests come here to relax and spend a lot of money here to do so, so they are employed.


Guide to Smyrna

Camping near Smyrna, DE, offers a mix of beautiful nature and fun activities for everyone. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to all kinds of campers.

What to do

  • Explore Cape Henlopen State Park: This park has a lot to offer, including beaches, hiking trails, and a nature center. One camper mentioned, "This park has a LOT of activities: the beach, a nice nature center. Fort Miles for WW 2 history."
  • Visit Lums Pond State Park: Great for hiking and water activities, this park is perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors. A reviewer said, "Had a nice time camping for two nights. If you like small breweries, about 20 minutes away is Stewarts Brewpub."
  • Check out Trap Pond State Park: Known for its cypress trees and beautiful trails, this park is a hidden gem. One visitor noted, "The hiking is always beautiful and easy to access."

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the well-maintained bathhouses and clean sites. A review stated, "The bathrooms were clean and the showers had warm water."
  • Scenic views: Many campgrounds offer stunning views and natural beauty. One camper shared, "The setting is wooded with great shade and a very peaceful pond backdrop."
  • Wildlife encounters: Campers enjoy seeing local wildlife, especially the wild ponies at Assateague State Park. A visitor exclaimed, "The wild horses are amazing, but please heed the warnings about how brazen they can be if you leave food out."

What you should know

  • Busy weekends: Some campgrounds can get crowded, especially on weekends. A camper mentioned, "We stayed here recently for 2 nights, Thursday and Friday. That was a big mistake, as mid-day Friday cars came rolling in."
  • Limited shade: Some campgrounds, like Delaware Seashore State Park, have few trees, so be prepared for sun exposure. A reviewer noted, "There are virtually no trees here and none in tent camping areas. Bring your own shade."
  • Reservations are key: Popular sites fill up quickly, so it's best to book in advance. One camper advised, "The sites go fast & I felt lucky to get the site I ended up with."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds and activities for kids. A parent shared, "Our site was directly in front of a small playground with a slide, swings, and monkey bars."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One reviewer said, "There’s a lot to do being on the bay. We went on a hike to check out the lighthouse."
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Having food on hand can make family camping more enjoyable. A camper mentioned, "We relaxed and cooled off and refueled and then went to get some milkshakes."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site dimensions: Make sure your RV fits the site before booking. A camper warned, "Watch the site dimensions or you might not be able to fit your vehicle AND camper on the site."
  • Use leveling blocks: Some sites may not be perfectly level, so bring leveling blocks. One RV owner noted, "The sites were not too close together. Overall, we’d come back."
  • Explore nearby breweries: If you enjoy local brews, check out nearby breweries after setting up camp. A visitor shared, "If you like small breweries, about 20 minutes away is Stewarts Brewpub."

Camping around Smyrna, DE, has something for everyone, from families to RV enthusiasts. With beautiful parks and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot for your next outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Smyrna, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, Smyrna, DE offers a wide range of camping options, with 101 campgrounds and RV parks near Smyrna, DE and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Smyrna, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Smyrna, DE is Lums Pond State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 48 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Smyrna, DE?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Smyrna, DE.