Glamping close to Hollywood, Maryland presents options within reasonable driving distance of the Chesapeake Bay's western shore. This region features low coastal elevation averaging 100-150 feet above sea level, with warm, humid summers and mild winters. The area's sandy soil supports distinctive pine-dominated woodlands, creating natural boundaries between campsites at many parks.
What to do
Water trails exploration: 4.5 miles around ponds. At Trap Pond State Park Campground, families discover extensive water-based activities beyond the immediate shoreline. "We camped here several years ago but in the off-season, and wanted to kayak among the bald cypress trees (I highly recommend this). Glad we came back!" one visitor shared after exploring the trail system.
Crabbing from bridges: No license required for recreational catching. Near Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway, visitors can try catching Maryland blue crabs from public areas. A camper noted, "You can enjoy free mini golf, free pool and waterside, free canoeing, and free billiards. It is about 20 min to ocean city but they have a free bus to take you to ocean."
Birding along Pocomoke River: Multiple species year-round. The watershed supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. As one visitor to Pocomoke State Park explained, "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."
What campers like
Free bicycle rentals: Available with refundable deposit. At Pocomoke River State Park Campground, visitors appreciate no-cost amenities. "Free bike rentals were still available (donations accepted) so we were able to take a ride around the pond (about 4.5 miles). There are four loops plus cabins and yurts. All sites appeared level and some have a view of the pond," noted one reviewer.
Clean bathroom facilities: Updated in multiple parks. Campers consistently mention well-maintained restrooms as a highlight. A visitor to Janes Island State Park Campground remarked, "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful. The campground was quiet and peaceful."
Fishing accessibility: Multiple freshwater options. Several campgrounds offer shoreline fishing access. At Island Resort Campground, a visitor shared, "Great kayaking trail, deep freshwater lake. Great fishing. Nice pool and pavilion areas. Nice camp store."
What you should know
Seasonal bug populations: Varies by location and month. Parks near water can experience significant insect activity. At Janes Island, one camper warned, "Unfortunately the bugs were so bad, it was nearly impossible to enjoy. No-see-ums bite all day long, bug spray helps with these. Deer flies bite from the morning sun until it's dark and they are the worst at dusk."
Site spacing considerations: Some campgrounds offer more privacy. Parks vary in how campsites are arranged. At Milburn Landing Campground, a visitor observed, "Sites are spacious, the bathhouses are clean, and we really enjoy the river view. T-Mobile service is good here."
Reservation requirements: Book early for summer weekends. Many popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. A visitor noted about Pocomoke River State Park, "The park can get crowded fast. The eastern shore gets busy quick, even on the weekdays."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Schedule around free programs. Many parks offer structured activities for kids. At Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway, one family shared, "The daytime activities for kids were fun as well and my son even 'set the alarm' so he wouldn't miss out on tie dyeing a t-shirt."
Consider campsite location: Choose based on facility proximity. When glamping with children, bathroom access becomes important. A visitor to Sun Outdoors Frontier Town suggested, "Due to the location near Ocean City, this campground is primarily a resort for people staying 1 or more weeks... 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."
Water safety preparation: Life jackets for shore activities. When camping near water, proper safety equipment matters. A visitor to Trap Pond noted, "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."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Check for levelness. RV campers emphasize the importance of flat parking. One visitor to Trap Pond mentioned, "Sites are fairly spacious and have an interesting semi-circle pull through layout so backing in not required. 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."
Electrical hookup limitations: 30-amp service common. Many parks offer limited electrical service. At Pocomoke River State Park, a visitor shared, "30 amp service available on Acorn Trail and Deer Run. Now water or sewer hookups but there is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot."
Size restrictions at some parks: Length limits under 35 feet. Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. At Pocomoke River State Park, an RVer warned, "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites."
