Camping near Chesapeake City, Maryland offers a mix of state parks and private resorts nestled between the Chesapeake Bay and the Delaware River. The region sits at low elevation along the coastal plain, with water access driving much of the camping experience. Fall temperatures range from 40-70°F with higher humidity than inland areas, while summer months can reach into the 90s with occasional thunderstorms.
What to do
Hiking trails and lighthouses: At Elk Neck State Park, visitors can access multiple trail options. "The Turkey Point Lighthouse is nearby. The lighthouse and the view are definitely worth it," notes a camper at Elk Neck State Park Campground. Many recommend the Beaver Marsh Trail for wildlife viewing.
Water activities on multiple bodies of water: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides direct water access for kayaking and fishing. As one visitor mentions, "Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away. Some sites you are right on the waters edge."
Seasonal events and themed weekends: Many campgrounds offer special activities during summer and fall. Thousand Trails Circle M offers themed weekends for families. "We went for Halloween, they had plenty for kids to do and was a pretty nice park. Sites were nice size and orderly," writes one reviewer about their fall experience.
What campers like
Concrete pads with full hookups: Lums Pond State Park Campground stands out for its modern sites. "Beautiful park setting with fantastic site— spacious, level, good-working hookups, and paved," comments a visitor. Sites 12-18 work well for larger RVs, though most sites can accommodate moderate-sized rigs.
Waterfront camping options: Many campers specifically seek water views. One Bar Harbor visitor explains, "We had a site literally 10 ft. from the water! Full hook ups and sites were a little close, but nice." Fishing directly from campsites remains popular in waterfront locations.
Proximity to attractions: Lake-In-Wood Campground provides access to Lancaster County attractions. "The town of North East is close and is a quaint town with a Main Street and great little shops. Woodys famous crab house is there along with other restaurants," explains a reviewer detailing the surrounding area's appeal.
What you should know
Seasonal closures and renovations: Some facilities close during off-seasons or undergo maintenance. "Sadly most of the park, including the beach, was closed for major renovation while we were there and it was 99 degrees out. Very buggy," reports a recent Elk Neck visitor about summer conditions.
Site leveling challenges: At Spring Gulch Resort Campground, terrain creates parking difficulties. "Lots were a bit uneven, but pull through which was nice," notes one camper. Many campgrounds throughout the region require leveling blocks.
Varying cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically between locations. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect," explains an Elk Neck State Park camper, highlighting both the challenge and potential benefit of limited coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access timing: Most campground pools have limited hours, especially during weekdays. "Staff was nice but not enough staffing to keep amenities like pool open after 5 during the week," explains a Spring Gulch visitor, suggesting morning or early afternoon swimming.
Playground options: Sun Valley Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "Nice swimming pool, immaculately clean bathrooms and showers. Well wooded campground with friendly staff and guests," reports a visitor, highlighting amenities beyond just the campsites.
Kids' activities: Organized events keep children entertained at many campgrounds. "The kids enjoyed the indoor pool. Looking forward to coming back in the summer," shares a Circle M camper about their experience with onsite recreation options during cooler months.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Several rv sites near Chesapeake City, Maryland require careful driving. "The road on the FHU loop is narrow and hilly. Our site was uphill and at a difficult angle. Plenty of bigger TTs and 5th wheels were camping," notes a camper at Elk Neck State Park Campground.
Hookup locations: Position planning matters at many sites. "In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," warns an Elk Neck visitor.
Residential access roads: When traveling to campgrounds near urban areas, expect neighborhood driving. "It's a gated park and nestled at the back of a quiet neighborhood. It's located about 40 min. from Baltimore Harbor, Ravens and Orioles stadiums," explains a camper describing the approach to Bar Harbor RV Park.
