Dispersed camping options near Ocean City, Maryland remain limited due to the region's high population density and protected coastal environments. Most camping experiences in this area occur at established campgrounds offering varying levels of service and amenities. The coastal elevation rarely exceeds 10 feet above sea level, creating unique water-oriented camping experiences with consistent bay breezes during summer months when temperatures typically range from 75-90°F.
What to do
Kayak the cypress trees: The tannin-stained waters of Pocomoke River State Park offer distinctive paddling routes through stands of ancient bald cypress trees. "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 a visitor to Pocomoke River State Park.
Bike the coastal trails: Cape Henlopen State Park features extensive paved cycling paths connecting campground areas to beaches and historic sites. "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," explains a reviewer at Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
Mini-golf and water activities: Many campgrounds near Ocean City include recreational amenities to complement beach trips. "They offer 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," reports a camper at Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
What campers like
Private beaches: Several glamping locations near Ocean City, Maryland provide direct water access without the crowded public beach experience. "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," mentions a visitor to Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
Pool complexes: Many campgrounds feature advanced pool facilities that provide alternatives to ocean swimming. "The pool is a nice size and refreshing. They have done great activities for the kids to keep them busy," notes a camper at Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway.
Wildlife viewing: Proximity to natural habitats creates opportunities for wildlife observation from camp. "The hikes in the campground are beautiful. The historic aspect of the Cape amazed me. It was a site for WWII soldiers to watch for enemy invaders. The towers are still there," describes a visitor to Cape Henlopen State Park Campground.
What you should know
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground density differs substantially between state parks and private resorts. "Loop G - Acorn trail is for campers with pets. The camp sites are in the outer loop of the circular road with lots of space between each site. Lots of shade," notes a camper at Pocomoke River State Park.
Seasonal operations: Most glamping destinations near Ocean City operate on limited schedules. Trap Pond State Park remains open year-round while many private campgrounds close between November and March. Research current schedules before planning trips during shoulder seasons.
Bug preparation essential: Coastal environments can experience significant insect activity, especially during warmer months. "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," warns a visitor to Shad Landing Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Free equipment rentals: Several parks offer complimentary recreation equipment to enhance family experiences. "They have a bike shed where you can sign out bikes for free for the day which was super neat. They also have wheelbarrows to borrow so if you have a drive up site you can use them," shares a visitor to Trap Pond State Park Campground.
Theme parks within campgrounds: Some locations combine traditional camping with attraction-style entertainment. "This is the best campground I've seen for kids. They have a water park that is included in your stay. The activities are great and your only minutes away from ocean city or Assateague State Par. Where the ponies run wild," explains a camper at Sun Outdoors Frontier Town.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide structured learning activities for children. "The park has programs and we painted a picture of Chuck the Owl (he was our model) which was fun," describes a visitor to Pocomoke River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Reservations essential: Glamping spots close to Ocean City, Maryland fill quickly during peak season. "This is a VERY busy campground. Rigs in and out daily and nearly always full. None of the sites are level. Sites are mostly small and close together," cautions an RVer at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay.
Off-peak value: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides different experiences with fewer crowds. "Have stayed here multiple times, most recently October 2018. They have a beautiful heated pool, waterfront tiki bar, on site store and restaurant, kayak and golf cart rental and they seem to be adding more every year," notes a visitor about Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay.
Size restrictions matter: Many older campgrounds have limited capacity for larger modern RVs. "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... RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," advises a camper at Shad Landing Campground.
