Camping options near Hollywood, Maryland include sites that range from bayside locations to more forested settings within 30-60 miles of the area. The region's elevation rarely exceeds 100 feet above sea level, creating primarily flat camping terrain with limited hill climbing required for hiking. Winter camping remains viable at several year-round facilities, though reduced services and colder temperatures near the water require appropriate cold-weather gear.
What to do
Kayaking on cypress-lined waterways: Trap Pond State Park offers distinctive paddling through North America's northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees. "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 a camper who appreciated the park's water-based activities.
Free bicycle rentals: Trap Pond State Park provides complimentary bikes for exploring the trails. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," according to a reviewer who enjoyed the variety of activities.
Beach clamming and crabbing: The bay side of Assateague provides opportunities for shellfish gathering. "There were so many fun places to see on the island, crabfishing and clamdigging can be done on the bay side, but it's a little far to walk with small children," explains a Fort Whaley visitor who explored nearby Assateague Island.
Pontoon boat tours: Seasonal guided water excursions operate at certain parks. "45-minute Pontoon boat tours are available on weekends Memorial Day–Labor Day," mentions a Trap Pond visitor who cataloged the many recreational options.
What campers like
Island camping sites: Pocomoke River State Park offers secluded water-surrounded camping spots. "We stayed in a group of 5 people to camp and hike in Pocomoke River State Park. I am a local of the eastern shore and wanted a little getaway that was not too far from home," shares a camper who found the cabins comfortable for their group.
Modern bathhouses: The facilities at many campgrounds have been recently upgraded. "Truly the best bathhouse we've ever seen at a campground! Not only clean - but modern and new. The bathhouse area also has a great dishwashing station (with garbage disposal!)," notes a Milburn Landing visitor impressed by the amenities.
Winter camping options: Several parks remain open during colder months with reduced crowds. "We stayed in the off season with less people and less bugs. Hiking and boys nearby to kayak or canoe at. Beautiful place to stay," says an Assateague camper who preferred the quieter winter experience.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple species can be observed throughout the camping areas. "We are kayakers in the warm weather and hikers when its cooler. We have kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite," explains a Pocomoke River visitor who enjoyed the natural surroundings.
What you should know
Mosquito and insect preparation: Assateague Island National Seashore and other coastal sites require serious bug protection. "It's beautiful here, horses are cool, beach is great, but the bugs stink! Bring some deet it's the only thing that works!" warns a camper who experienced the persistent insects.
Horse safety protocols: Wild horses require specific camping practices. "The Ponies are giant trash pandas. They're smart and can open latches so do bring bungee cords, kayak straps, or ratchet straps to lock all of your food in cases or coolers," advises an Assateague visitor familiar with the horses' behavior.
Site leveling challenges: Some camping pads require adjustment for comfortable setup. "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 a Trap Pond camper who encountered setup difficulties.
Seasonal facility closures: Off-peak visitors should verify which amenities remain operational. "When camp store is open it is very minimalistic. Walmart is about 10 minutes, maybe less away," notes a Shad Landing camper who visited during a quieter period.
Tips for camping with families
Educational playgrounds: Milburn Landing Campground features unique play areas. "Nice dock and boat launch area. Clean Bathrooms in each loop with nice showers and plenty of hot water. Handicap accessible in showers, bathrooms, cabins, walkways, parking," writes a visitor who appreciated the accessible design.
Nature centers with scheduled programs: Several parks offer structured educational activities. "The park has programs and we painted a picture of Chuck the Owl (he was our model) which was fun," shares a Pocomoke River State Park visitor who participated in the organized events.
Gaga ball courts: This increasingly popular playground game is available at select campgrounds. "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball)," mentions a Trap Pond visitor who discovered this unique amenity.
Playground proximity consideration: Some campsites offer direct views of play areas. "Highly recommend our site to anyone with littles as you can literally relax at your site while your child plays at the playground!" advises a Sun Outdoors Ocean City visitor about strategic site selection.
Tips from RVers
RV site dimensions: Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway (formerly Fort Whaley) offers diverse site options. "Fairly easy to back in but they do have pull throughs available as well. Site was fairly spacious and campground is SUPER pet friendly!" notes a visitor who found the site configurations accommodating.
Loop road navigation: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The loop road is nicely flat and paved, but very tight and winding, with lots of trees right next to it. Be prepared for a multi-point turn to back into your site!" warns a Milburn Landing camper who experienced the tight turns.
RV size restrictions: Certain parks have limitations on larger rigs. "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," cautions a Shad Landing visitor familiar with the space constraints.
Electric hookup variability: Amperage differs between campgrounds and specific loops. "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," explains a Shad Landing camper who noted the available utilities.
