Berlin, Maryland sits on Maryland's eastern shore, just 8 miles west of Ocean City. The coastal area features flat terrain with elevations averaging less than 50 feet above sea level, creating diverse wetland habitats alongside pine forests. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions for glamping and camping adventures.
What to do
Kayaking cypress swamps: At Pocomoke River State Park Campground, visitors can explore unique cypress tree waterways. "We have kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite. All these kayak trails are wonderful! Plenty to see, no bugs, no mosquitoes..some biting flies if you go into the lily pad areas," notes one camper.
Free bike rentals: Some parks offer complimentary bicycles for exploring trails. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," writes a visitor to Trap Pond State Park Campground.
Historical exploration: The region contains military artifacts from World War II. Cape Henlopen State Park features "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 and photo opportunities. There are also old observation towers, one of which you can climb to the top of."
What campers like
Private island camping: For a unique glamping experience near Berlin, Trap Pond State Park Campground offers island sites. "My sons and I spent four nights on the island site and loved it. We lucked out and had both sites to ourselves which I recommend. I couldn't imagine sharing the secluded site with strangers. We set up our hammocks on the edge of the water," reports one camper.
Accessible amenities: Parks prioritize accessibility for all visitors. At Pocomoke River State Park, "Clean Bathrooms in each loop with nice showers and plenty of hot water. Handicap accessible in showers, bathrooms, cabins, walkways, parking. Kayak and canoe rentals during season and handicap accessible for kayakers with special needs."
Upscale waterfront facilities: The area's luxury glamping options extend beyond just accommodations. Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway impresses with its extras: "They have 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."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most glamping facilities have limited seasons. Island Resort Campground operates from April through December, while many other locations close by October. Water amenities like pools and boat rentals typically run from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Insect preparation: Coastal areas can have significant bug populations. "The one big problem with both Shad and Milburn are the bugs. It gets insanely humid here, and the mosquitoes, flies, and ticks take full advantage—especially if you decide to hike through the nearby State Forest."
Site selection matters: Sites vary significantly in size and privacy. "Lots of privacy between the tent sites because of the trees. The bathrooms were clean and modern. The camp store had lots of little items that I needed... The ocean is beautiful but a bit of a walk from the tent campsites."
Tips for camping with families
Free amenities save money: Several campgrounds offer included activities. At Sun Outdoors Frontier Town, "The ability to rent golf carts is a super cool bonus especially to get the surroundings. I stayed in a large cabin with another family. The cabin was very nice western themed. There is a camp store that is slightly pricey, but expected, a saloon, an ice cream shoppe, an AWESOME waterpark, and the theme park."
Bring bikes: Cycling is ideal for exploring the relatively flat terrain. "We thoroughly enjoyed our time at this campground resort! Multiple playgrounds, minigolf, plenty for the kids to do. You can rent a golf cart, shoot pool, or play table tennis."
Schedule buffer days: Weekend glamping reservations fill quickly. "This is a very family-oriented camp. In addition to the moderately sized water park, which is included in the price, there is a schedule of activities for kids. The entire camp is full of kids tearing around on bikes from sunup to sundown."
Tips from RVers
Watch site dimensions: Many campgrounds have site-specific size restrictions. At Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, "If you have a trailer, make sure that you input your trailer length to find a site that fits as they vary. Sites are mostly small and close together. The closer you are to the camp store, the louder and busier it is."
Leveling preparation: Some sites require work to position RVs properly. "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. Sites have 30A electric and water with a nearby convenient dump station."
Off-season benefits: Consider glamping near Berlin during shoulder seasons. "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet. I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early."
