The Chesapeake Bay shoreline shapes much of the camping experience near Grasonville, Maryland, with campgrounds positioned along tidal rivers and scenic waterways. Most campgrounds in this region sit at low elevations between 10-30 feet above sea level, creating easy access to water activities but also making some sites vulnerable to spring flooding. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping seasons offer more moderate conditions.
What to do
Water recreation at Martinak State Park: The park offers excellent access to the Choptank River with a dedicated waterfront area for kayaking and other water sports. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," notes Laura M. about Martinak State Park Campground.
Bird watching at Eastern Neck Wildlife Sanctuary: Located just minutes from Bay Shore Campground, this sanctuary provides excellent opportunities for spotting eagles and migratory waterfowl. "We met the owner who was very attentive to our needs... Be sure to go into the town of rock Hall for a seafood dinner at Waterman's," shares Cindy from Bay Shore Campground.
Hiking at Elk Neck State Park: The trails offer varied terrain and scenic overlooks of the Chesapeake Bay. "Beautiful park, well kept. Plenty to do with lots of access to water and hiking," writes Krystle D. about their experience at Elk Neck State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between campsites. "Two thumbs up on this small campground with spacious, wooded sites! Lots of shade and trees on large sites and space between sites make this a pleasant campground," reports Mary S. about Susquehanna State Park Campground.
Waterfront views: Campers consistently mention the scenic water views as a highlight. "This campground is perfect for a quiet visit to the Eastern shore town of Rock Hall as It sits conveniently between the village of Rock Hall and Eastern Neck sanctuary. The area reserved for RV campsites overlooks a bluff on the Chesapeake Bay... gorgeous," describes Cindy from Bay Shore Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathhouses are frequently cited in positive reviews. "Bathhouse is clean but ran out of toilet paper often; they supposedly clean 3 times a day since COVID but we didn't see that happening on a regular schedule while we were there," notes E.K. about Susquehanna State Park.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage can be spotty throughout the region. "Cell service (T-Mobile) was spotty at times, bathhouses were fine, and the ranger was on patrol regularly. We felt very safe!" reports Shanna S. about Martinak State Park.
Site selection matters: Not all sites are equal in size or level ground. "We booked site 21, blind. The web site does not say site 21 is extremely small. We have a 25' camper, and it barely fit, length and with were an issue. The firepit was about 3-4 feet from our door," warns Buck P. about Tuckahoe State Park.
Seasonal considerations: August brings increased jellyfish populations in the bay. "My family and I have been coming to Sandy Point my entire life... August is the worst month to visit if you like the water. Jellyfish take over with a vengeance!" shares Angel G. about Sandy Point State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple playgrounds: Several parks provide playground options for different age groups. "They have a nice area for kids (pool, playground, jumping pillow, basketball courts, giant chess, etc). If you get an area to back into it'll be more secluded, but the pull through spots offer no privacy," advises Elise M. about Washington DC / Capitol KOA.
Kid-friendly trails: Look for shorter, more accessible hiking routes. "We had a great time with our 3 little ones. They have lots of easily walked trails. Bath houses are kept clean. They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us," shares Bill F. about Martinak State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs. "For kids, there's a simple swingset in the loop and a larger, newer playground... If you're looking to learn and explore with your kids, there is an extensive junior ranger program," notes Jean C.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Pay close attention to site descriptions. "There's a ton of camping at Elk Neck, including a loop with full hook ups. 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," advises David G. about Elk Neck State Park Campground.
Utility access varies: Not all parks offer the same hookups. "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced... Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground," notes Adam and Suzanne B. regarding Tuckahoe State Park.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require careful setup. "Our site was a level full hook up. The road on the FHU loop is narrow and hilly. Out site was uphill and at a difficult angle. Plenty of bigger TTs and 5th wheels were camping," reports Adam and Suzanne B. about Elk Neck State Park.