Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground offers beach camping with direct ocean access just 10 miles south of Ocean City. The coastal location experiences average summer temperatures of 85°F with frequent afternoon sea breezes. During peak season, campsites often book 6 months in advance, particularly those closest to the dunes where wild horses regularly visit campsites.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: At Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground, visitors regularly spot the island's famous wild horses roaming through campsites. "Great spot for a secluded and quiet experience. I have seen horses everytime I have camped here. We always go during the winter or early spring months to avoid the bugs as they are awful during the spring and summer," notes Torie M.
Kayaking on calm waters: The bayside areas near Berlin provide protected paddling opportunities for all skill levels. "During our time we were able to do some hiking along the 37 mile long park, kayak on the ocean, and Bay, see some wild ponys that rove the park, and enjoy the very clean facilities that the park offered," shares Anthony S.
Free bike rental program: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers complimentary bicycles to explore the park's trail system. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," reports Lee D. The main trail around the pond extends approximately 4.5 miles through forested areas.
Nighttime beach fires: During summer evenings, campers can build fires directly on the beach below the high tide line. "After dusk you can do beach fires as long as they're below the high tide line so they wash out," explains Tony P., providing a unique alternative to standard campsite fire rings.
What campers like
Island campsites with water access: Trap Pond State Park Campground features rare island camping spots accessible by boat. "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," writes Lucia B.
Waterfront camping with fishing access: Sun Outdoors Ocean City offers sites directly on the Sinepuxent Bay with fishing opportunities steps from your campsite. "We stayed in the 'big rig' site within Club Castaway right on the water as we have a 40ft rig. Amenities are clean, staff friendly and helpful. Our dog, Daisy, loved the beach and the dog park and socialization w her pooch friends," shares Julie F.
Modern bathhouse facilities: Campgrounds in the region have invested in upgraded restroom facilities. "The bathhouses are pristine. We visited in the fall, and the weather happened to be perfect, with no bugs," explains Jen V. about her experience at Assateague State Park Campground.
Dedicated dog beaches: Pet-friendly camping near Ocean City, Maryland includes special canine swimming areas. "They have two separate beaches even a big one for your fur kids. Which mine thoroughly enjoyed," explains Karen H. about the dedicated dog beach at Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
What you should know
Seasonal bug considerations: Biting insects can be intense, particularly in warmer months. "It's beautiful here, horses are cool, beach is great, but the bugs stink! Bring some deet it's the only thing that works!" warns Kirsten J. about Assateague Island National Seashore. Many campers recommend camping between October and April for fewer insect issues.
Wild horse safety protocols: Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground requires special food storage practices. "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," advises Tony P.
Weather exposure considerations: Many oceanfront sites lack natural shade. "Beware if the wind is out of the west the bugs are vicious," notes Sean R. about beach camping. "Definitely bring a canopy as obviously there is no shade Oceanside," adds Tony P., highlighting the importance of portable shade solutions.
Advance booking requirements: Waterfront campsites fill quickly during summer months. "Make sure you book far in advance (especially for the electric sites!); be prepared for bugs, heat, and wind; and you'll be sure to have a memorable experience," recommends Jen V.
Tips for camping with families
Educational nature programs: Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway (formerly Fort Whaley) offers structured activities for children. "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," shares Shannon D.
Free recreational equipment loans: Several campgrounds provide complimentary sports and activity equipment. "The main pavilion has rentals for recreational equipment at no extra cost (hula hoops, balls, etc.)," reports Randi J., adding that "There are also themed weekends and scheduled activities throughout the week!"
Multiple playground options: Look for campgrounds with diverse play areas. "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball). There is an additional playground in the day-use area, plus a volleyball net," describes Lee D. about Trap Pond State Park.
Animal viewing opportunities: The wild horses provide unique wildlife education experiences. "The horses were magestic!!" exclaims Catherine S. about Assateague State Park. Tony P. adds that "There is an app you can use to identify the ponies," providing an educational technology component to wildlife observation.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Delaware Seashore State Park Campground accommodates substantial vehicles. "All of the non-hookup sites are sand/grass/gravel and completely level; the hookup sites have paved camper pads (and are also level)," notes Lee D.
Wind protection strategies: Oceanfront camping requires additional stabilization techniques. "It is really neat to be able to camp right on the sand dunes and by the beach but prepare for lots of wind. Check the weather a lot because the storms roll in quickly," advises Tori V. Many RVers recommend additional stabilizers or skirting during windy conditions.
Winter camping amenities: Several campgrounds maintain year-round operations with heated facilities. "This place has been great to us Even though we are tent camping in the middle of winter we have still made it work it has great warm bathrooms that are very clean and sanitary they clean them everyday faithfully we have hot showers we have laundry facilities," explains Alisha M. about Trap Pond State Park.
Flexible departure options: Some parks offer extended checkout for an additional fee. "We LOVE it and always hate to leave even though we pay the $25 to stay to 8pm on departure day, it's never long enough," shares Kristan E. about Treasure Beach RV Park's late checkout option.
