Within an hour's drive of Salisbury, Maryland sits the unique Pocomoke Forest ecosystem, where bald cypress trees create distinctive swamp habitats alongside sandy coastal environments. Seasonal water levels fluctuate throughout the year, with lower water in fall making certain water trails more challenging to navigate. Camping options range from primitive sites to fully-equipped cabins with convenient access to both forest and beach environments.
What to do
Kayaking on multiple waterways: The Pocomoke River offers paddling routes for all experience levels. At Trap Pond State Park, "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," notes Lucia B. The park provides rentals for those without equipment.
Free bike rentals: Several parks offer complimentary bicycle use for exploring trails. At Trap Pond, "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals," explains Lee D. These bikes allow visitors to explore the full 4.5-mile loop around the pond.
Wild horse viewing: Observe wild horses in their natural habitat at Assateague Island National Seashore. "We visited in the fall, and the weather happened to be perfect, with no bugs. Based on other campers' experiences, as well as having grown up on the Eastern Shore, I would honestly avoid the summertime due to the extreme heat and bugs," advises Jen V. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Walk-in campsites: Some camping areas provide secluded walk-in options. At Assateague, Anthony S. shares: "I decided to camp on the Oceanside walk-in which means that we had to walk from the parking lot about 200 ft to our camping area." These sites often offer more privacy than drive-up locations.
Heated pools and water amenities: Family-friendly campgrounds feature water recreation options even in shoulder seasons. At Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway, Shannon D. explains: "There are pedal boats and canoes that you can take out on the lake, which you can also fish in. There is a nice pool and a very nice mini golf course that we played almost every night because it was a fun thing to do after dark and before bed."
Waterfront camping sites: Many campers value direct water access. At Shad Landing Campground, Cindy S. describes: "We have kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite. We have also kayaked out of Byrd Park, in Snow Hill. All these kayak trails are wonderful!"
What you should know
Insect conditions vary dramatically: Mosquitoes and biting flies are most problematic during summer months, especially in wooded areas. At Delaware Seashore State Park, Gayle B. advises: "It's right next to a bridge—which is beautiful at night—but we didn't hear the traffic as much as I expected. Tent sites were closer to the bridge, though, so I'm not sure how noisy they were."
Site privacy varies by loop: Campground layouts differ significantly between loops. At Pocomoke River State Park, Jan K. notes: "Loop G - Acorn trail is for campers with pets. The camp sites are in the outer loop of the circular road with lots of space between each site. Lots of shade. There are several paths (like spokes on a wheel) that lead to the bathrooms which are in the middle of the loop."
Reservation timing matters: During peak summer months, many campgrounds fill completely. "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," explains Jim G. about Trap Pond State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Free activities availability: Look for campgrounds offering complimentary recreation options. At Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, one camper shares: "You can enjoy free mini golf, free pool and waterside, free canoeing, and free billiards. It is about 20 min to ocean city but they have a free bus to take you to ocean."
Kid-friendly programming: Many parks offer structured activities. Shannon D. describes: "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."
Bathroom proximity: When camping with young children, consider bathroom location. At Shad Landing, Jennifer O. mentions: "I definitely had the best site on the block! Caddy corner from the bath house, but not so close to be disturbing, & it was very clean w/ nice hot water showers & spacious adjacent changing area with bench & lots of hooks to hang towel, clothes, etc."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many campsites require leveling equipment. About Trap Pond, Jim G. notes: "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."
Power options vary: Check amperage availability when booking. Jason B. advises about Shad Landing: "30 amp service available on Acorn Trail and Deer Run. No water or sewer hookups but there is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot." Most sites throughout the region offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability.
Size restrictions: Many wooded campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. Jason B. cautions: "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites." Always check specific loop recommendations for your RV length before booking.
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