Martinak State Park Campground features two camping loops with waterfront access on the Choptank River, situated in a quiet woodland environment 15 miles from Easton. The park provides campsites for tents and RVs with both electric and non-electric options, plus several cabins. Trails connect throughout the park with access points for kayaking and fishing along the river's edge. Located in Caroline County on Maryland's Eastern Shore, the park serves as a central base for exploring the region's water-oriented recreation opportunities.
What to do
Paddling adventures: The Choptank River at Martinak State Park Campground offers excellent kayaking opportunities from the park's water access points. "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground," mentions Laura M. The park's location provides direct water access for paddlers.
Fishing spots: Both river and pond fishing are available at the campgrounds near Easton. As Sam D. notes about the fishing at Martinak: "This is a great place to catch some good action fish. I've always had some success whenever I've been here. It's a fun place to spend a night or two and relax." Bring your own gear as rental options may be limited.
Lighthouse trails: Visit Elk Neck State Park Campground for the Turkey Point Lighthouse trail. "The lighthouse trail is a must. It is about a five minute drive to get to the trail though, but is worth it!" writes Jalissa Y. The lighthouse overlooks the Chesapeake Bay and offers spectacular views from the point.
What campers like
Clean facilities: The bathhouses at campgrounds near Easton receive consistent praise. "Bathrooms were like brand new. Water and electric on our loop," notes Rhonda S. about Martinak State Park. Regular maintenance and cleanliness are priorities for state park campgrounds in the region.
Water views: Ellendale Campground (now Bay Shore Campground) in Rock Hall offers premium waterfront sites. "If you enjoy beautiful sunsets, seeing bald eagles every day, having a nice breeze, not too buggy, well kept campground this is the place to go," says Lisa V. The campground's position provides direct views of the Chesapeake Bay.
Spacious sites: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Easton provide adequate space between campsites. At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced," reports Adam and Suzanne B. This spacing gives pets and families room to enjoy their campsite without disturbing neighbors.
What you should know
Best seasons: The Eastern Shore camping season generally runs from March through November. Summer months can be buggy and humid while spring and fall offer more comfortable temperatures. "We had a great time with our 3 little ones. They have lots of easily walked trails. Bath houses are kept clean," says Bill F. about Martinak State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Easton require advance reservations, especially during summer and fall weekends. Holiday weekends fill months in advance. "Going to book future trips!" notes Buck P. after visiting Tuckahoe State Park.
Limited cell service: Trap Pond State Park Campground and other wooded campgrounds may have spotty connectivity. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect. I absolutely love it!" shares Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park. Consider downloading offline maps before arrival.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "For kids, there's a simple swingset in the loop and a larger, newer playground," notes Jean C. about Martinak. At Killens Pond State Park Campground, families appreciate the "Nice drive on sites for tent camping. A few well managed trails," according to Dale B.
Activity rentals: Free or low-cost equipment rentals make family camping more enjoyable. "You can rent kayaks, canoes and fishing gear. The camp sites are spaced out nicely," shares Jessica K. about Tuckahoe State Park. Check ahead for rental availability and costs.
Junior Ranger programs: State parks often offer educational activities for children. Jean C. notes that at Tuckahoe, "If you're looking to learn and explore with your kids, there is an extensive junior ranger program." These programs typically include nature walks, wildlife identification, and conservation education.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking RV sites, pay close attention to pad dimensions and entrance angles. At Tuckahoe State Park, Buck P. warns: "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." Always check site specifications before booking.
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer electric and water hookups, with fewer offering sewer connections. "We stayed one night in the small cabin. It was cosy and warm on a cold night for fall," shares Andrew M. about Martinak State Park. For RVers requiring full hookups, Elk Neck State Park offers complete utilities in specific loops.
Dump station access: Campgrounds without sewer hookups typically provide dump stations. "Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Tuckahoe State Park. Plan your stay around dump station locations and water refill points.
Traveler
