Maryland's Eastern Shore offers diverse campgrounds around Denton, with waterfront sites along the Choptank and Tuckahoe rivers. The region features flat, accessible terrain with mixed pine and hardwood forests. Most campgrounds near Denton operate in a moderate climate zone that sees warm summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and mild springs and falls ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing access: Martinak State Park provides direct water access for paddlers and anglers. According to one visitor, "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground."
Historic sites exploration: Cape Henlopen State Park features military history alongside natural attractions. A reviewer notes, "As a former military installation, there are lots of military historical items and sites. Underground bunkers and batteries and such. There's a wonderful observation tower built on top of one of these that affords beautiful 360 degree views."
Water recreation: Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay offers multiple water activities. "This resort is the top of our campground list. The location cannot be beat. Lots of kids activities and the kids love the night swimming while adults can sit at the swim up bar," shares one camper.
Biking trails: Several parks offer dedicated cycling paths. One visitor to Cape Henlopen shared, "The trails are awesome and easy to walk or ride bikes on, with a few hills to muscle up, but it's mostly flat terrain and paved. There's a nature center nearby that also lets you borrow a bike for free if you didn't bring your own."
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina provides prime water-adjacent camping spots. "Our first visit was just prior to peak season (lower rates) and we had a site literally 10 ft. from the water! Full hook ups and sites were a little close, but nice," explains one reviewer.
Spacious wooded sites: Tuckahoe State Park Campground receives praise for its layout. A camper notes, "The wooded area makes you feel a little more secluded from any neighbors. The state park has two playgrounds that are both open and trails to hike."
Well-maintained facilities: Clean bathrooms and amenities matter to campers. According to one visitor at G & R Campground, "Nice quiet campground. Older but clean. Nice cabins."
Recreation options: Multiple activities enhance the camping experience. A camper at Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway says, "This campground is about 20 minutes to Ocean City boardwalk and about 25 minutes to Assateague Island, where the wild horses roam."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds near Denton close during winter months. Cape Henlopen State Park operates from March 1 to November 30, while others like Tuckahoe State Park runs from March 25 to November 27.
Site spacing varies significantly: Some rv campgrounds near Denton provide spacious sites while others pack campers closely. A Duck Neck Campground reviewer cautions, "Campers are packed in so closely most can't open their awnings. Our door is about 5ft from the neighbors sewer drain."
Reservation requirements: Martinak State Park Campground and other popular sites require advance booking. "We stayed one night in a small cabin. It was cosy and warm on a cold night for fall. The cabins are clean and tidy and the campground is well run," mentions one visitor.
Bathroom maintenance schedules: Some facilities close for cleaning at specific times. A Treasure Beach RV Park visitor noted, "Bath houses close every 2 hours for cleaning (Covid rules). Also, they have 2 pools and a splash pad but due to Covid they are only open for 2 hour time slots."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cape Henlopen State Park Campground offers excellent play facilities. "There is a fantastic nature center (FREE) complete with touch tanks and knowledgeable park staff. Free bike rentals are available, some with baby seats and trailers," shares one parent.
Swimming options: Multiple pools at some locations accommodate different age groups. One camper at Treasure Beach notes, "Two nice pools, one for adults. Jumping pillow, water balloons and a nice playground for kids."
Family-friendly activities: Scheduled events keep children engaged. A Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway visitor mentions, "They have a four person site with a fireplace in the middle to share that is new. They are making a lot of new sites for 2019. Also a great place to crab right from your campsite or the beach."
Easy trails: Look for parks with level, accessible paths. According to a Martinak State Park visitor, "Walking trails are level, flat, and some are paved. We stayed in the electric loop."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: RV owners recommend researching site specifics before booking. One Cape Henlopen camper advises, "If you have a trailer, make sure that you input your trailer length to find a site that fits as they vary."
Utility considerations: Hookup variations exist between rv campgrounds in Denton, Maryland. A visitor to Bar Harbor RV Park notes, "We're told to turn off and unhook water the night it dropped below freezing. They do fill up propane but there's a Tractor Supply about 20min away that will also fill them."
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require additional preparation. A Tuckahoe State Park visitor warns, "None of the sites are level. Sites are mostly small and close together. The closer you are to the camp store, the louder and busier it is."
Dump station protocols: G & R Campground and other facilities have specific waste disposal procedures. "The site we were given was a pull through that faced the back of some very old unattractive campers, cars, and lots. Apparently there are folks that live there full time," explains one RVer, suggesting to "ask to not be near the monthly campers."