Camping spots near Girdletree, Maryland are situated along Maryland's eastern shore in a low-lying coastal plain region with an average elevation of 10-20 feet. The terrain is characterized by pine forests, marshlands, and proximity to both the Pocomoke River and coastal bays. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder weather between 50-75°F with lower precipitation.
What to do
Kayaking the Pocomoke River: Launch directly from Milburn Landing Campground with rentals available during peak season. The blackwater river system offers paddling routes ranging from 1-10 miles with minimal current. A camper noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing at Chincoteague: Visit Chincoteague Island KOA for access to wildlife areas. The campground is "walking distance to stores, water slide park, kayaking, fishing/crabbing from bridges and biking distance to Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge & Assateague Island National Seashore." Bring binoculars for bird watching, particularly in spring and fall migration seasons.
Beach fishing access: Bayside Assateague Campground offers proximity to prime fishing spots. The campground provides "fresh water pump nearby" and is just "a short walk away from the beach." One camper mentioned, "We took a ride over to the ocean camp sites and found some horses!" Consider early morning fishing for best results, particularly during mid-week when beaches are less crowded.
What campers like
Waterside camping views: Tom's Cove Park offers sites with excellent water views. "The view from the docks is wonderful" and "if you have canoe/kayak/SUPB it is a great point to launch off to explore the nature reserve next to camp Cove." The park allows direct water access for fishing and wildlife observation.
Modern bathhouse facilities: Many campgrounds have recently upgraded facilities. At Milburn Landing, campers appreciate the "nice, large dishwashing sink on the outside" and note it's "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!)"
Spacious and level sites: Shad Landing Campground receives consistent praise for site quality. A camper observed, "So I loved the campground. I got a electric site with a place for a large tent. The grounds are very well kept, respectful attendants and clean grounds." Another mentioned, "The sites are spacious, the bathhouses are clean, and we really enjoy the river view."
What you should know
Bug intensity varies by season: Insects are a significant consideration in this coastal region. At Assateague State Park Campground, a camper advised, "We visited in May - it was very windy and a bit cold, but no bugs!" Another noted, "You can't beat Assateague... Be prepared for the bugs. Even enjoyed this in the winter." Consider camping between late September and early May for minimal insects.
Campground overcrowding: Most campgrounds experience high density during peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). A visitor to Milburn Landing observed, "Even though the campground is small - it felt crowded even only 1/3-1/2 full. The cabin mitigated some of the noise and crowd, but I would be reluctant to tent camp here on a weekend or in any site on a holiday weekend."
Wildlife interactions: Particularly at Assateague, wildlife management requires specific precautions. One camper warned, "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." Follow campground regulations regarding food storage and disposal.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities access: Sun Outdoors Ocean City offers family-friendly water options. "Beautiful well equipped and appointed campground on the water facing the beautiful Assateague National Seashore. They have two separate beaches even a big one for your fur kids." For younger children, look for sites close to playgrounds: "Highly recommend our site to anyone with littles as you can literally relax at your site while your child plays at the playground!"
Off-peak timing advantages: For families with scheduling flexibility, consider visiting outside summer peak. A visitor to Milburn Landing suggested, "Ranger said the flies can be really bad in the summer but early and late season are great." Mid-week visits during the school year offer significantly less crowded facilities and beaches.
Strategic site selection: For family camping, prioritize proximity to bathhouses and playgrounds. A parent recommended, "Site #271 [at Sun Outdoors Ocean City] - Full hookups: 20/30/50 amp water & sewer... Fairly easy to back in but they do have pull throughs available as well. Site was fairly spacious and campground is SUPER pet friendly!"
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and accessibility: RV campers should carefully research site specifications. At Milburn Landing, a reviewer advised, "The roads around campground are narrow with large trees lining the road. A big rig would have difficulty parking if not on a specific site... Would strongly suggest only tents, pop ups and travel trailers under 30'."
Hook-up variations: Utilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Shad Landing, a camper noted, "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. RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have different access and amenities based on season. "Been here several times. When camp store is open it is very minimalistic. Walmart is about 10 minutes, maybe less away." For winter camping, note that "No electric hookup or water which is expected for winter camping, we managed without for the night."
