Campsites around Chester, Maryland sit along the eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay at an average elevation of just 30 feet above sea level. This low-lying region experiences mild winters with average temperatures above freezing and hot, humid summers where temperatures typically reach the mid-80s. Cell coverage can vary dramatically between campgrounds, with weaker signals common in more rural settings away from town centers.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing from your campsite: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina offers direct water access with some sites positioned right on the water's edge. "If you like boating, kayaking or canoeing, this is the place!!! 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," notes Janet P. Some visitors appreciate the ability to fish directly from their campsites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Tuckahoe State Park Campground features hiking trails through wooded areas and access to Tuckahoe Creek, offering chances to observe local wildlife. The park houses a Bird Aviary for birds that cannot be fully rehabilitated. "There is opportunity to see a great night sky if the clouds stay away," according to Bill G., who uses the park as a way station while camping along the Bay.
Explore nearby waterways: At Bay Shore Campground in Rock Hall, visitors enjoy spectacular Chesapeake Bay sunsets and wildlife sightings. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," shares Lisa V. The campground sits conveniently between Rock Hall village and Eastern Neck sanctuary, making it ideal for exploring both locations.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina receives praise for its waterfront sites. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. We are here visiting family for the holidays and it's serving us well," says Casey L. Another camper notes, "The waterfront sites are pricy but right on the water with great views. Some of the trailer sites are a tough back in but worth the trouble."
Clean facilities: Martinak State Park Campground maintains well-kept bathhouses. One recent visitor noted, "Campsites and bathrooms are clean. Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports." The park features two camping loops, one with and one without electric hookups, plus several cabin rentals for those not tent camping.
Spacious sites: Lums Pond State Park Campground in nearby Delaware offers newly renovated sites with concrete pads, 30-amp service, and full sewer hookups. "From the moment I pulled in and observed how large the sites were, I was hooked," states Leah H. Sites were redone in recent years, with many visitors noting the large, level camping spots.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Chester area have limited operating seasons. Duck Neck Campground in Chestertown only operates from April 15 through November 1. Similarly, Martinak State Park Campground runs from March to November, with Tuckahoe State Park open from March 25 to November 27.
Reservation requirements: During peak summer months, especially weekends, most campgrounds fill quickly. "Book early because it fills up fast!" advises Ellen B. about Lums Pond State Park. Holiday weekends require particularly advanced planning.
Variable cellular service: Martinak State Park Campground and other rural sites have inconsistent cellular coverage. "Cell service (T-Mobile) was spotty at times," reports Shanna S. Some campgrounds offer WiFi as a paid service, though reliability varies. Helen O. recommends: "Before purchasing Wifi, check your coverage. We have AT&T and had plenty of service."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature children's play areas. "The park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike," notes Kasey M. about Tuckahoe State Park. Similarly, Bar Harbor RV Park includes "a fenced dog area and play set," according to Laure D.
Water activities for kids: Cherry Hill Park provides extensive water-based recreation options. "This campground has so much to offer. We loved it," writes Beth R., citing amenities including "swimming pool, hot tub, splash pad, paved roads for scootering."
Family-friendly trails: Tuckahoe State Park offers 20 miles of hiking trails also open to biking and horseback riding. One visitor described the trails as "easily walked" and suitable for families with young children, making them perfect for introducing kids to nature walks without overwhelming them.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Some campground utilities are positioned inconveniently. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," cautions Amanda H. about one campground. Check campground maps or call ahead to confirm utility locations.
Site selection for larger RVs: Duck Neck Campground can be challenging for larger rigs due to tight spacing. "Campers are packed in so closely most can't open their awnings," notes Stacy D. When making reservations, specifically request end sites when available, as they typically offer more room to maneuver.
Propane availability: Only certain rv parks near Chester, Maryland offer on-site propane refill service. Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides propane fill service, while many others require traveling to nearby towns. The closest alternative propane sources are often 15-20 minutes away in larger towns like Bel Air or Denton.
