While traditional equestrian campsites remain limited near White Plains, Maryland, outdoor enthusiasts can access several quality campgrounds within driving distance. The region features a mix of coastal and inland recreation areas with varying amenities across Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia. The climate in this Mid-Atlantic area brings humid summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for camping trips.
What to do
Water exploration at Trap Pond: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers water recreation options with boat rentals available in season. "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," shares one visitor who appreciated the accessible watercraft options.
Beach activities: At Delaware Seashore State Park Campground, the ocean is just a short walk away. "Ocean was a short 5 minute walk from our campsite- along with a playground and delicious restaurant (that even served vegan food!)!" notes one camper who enjoyed the proximity to swimming and dining options.
Wildlife observation: Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities. "We've been going here as a family for over 6 years. Its a great place to relax with less people on the public and private beaches. The wild ponies and deer are beautiful!!" mentions a regular visitor to the area.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple fishing spots exist throughout the region's campgrounds. At Martinak State Park Campground, one visitor notes: "Beautiful waterfront great for kayaking and water sports. No real hiking trails. Overall small quiet campground."
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Many campgrounds in the region offer peaceful experiences during non-peak times. At Tuckahoe State Park Campground, "Lots of shade and trees on large sites and space between sites make this a pleasant campground," according to one reviewer who appreciates the spacious layout.
Accessibility to beaches: Proximity to ocean access ranks high among camper preferences. A Delaware Seashore visitor shares: "It's right next to a bridge- which is beautiful at night- but we didn't hear the traffic as much as I expected. Tent sites were closer to the bridge, though, so I'm not sure how noisy they were."
Family-friendly amenities: Sun Outdoors Frontier Town receives praise for its extensive activities. "This was my first time there in over 20 years. it had changed so much. the sites were awesome. Clean shower houses all day long. lots of activities for the kids and the water park was amazing," notes an impressed return visitor.
Clean facilities: Campground hygiene matters to visitors across the region. A Tuckahoe State Park camper commented: "The bathroom/ showers are the cleanest I've ever seen, especially since we stayed in the hottest time of the year."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Bug activity varies significantly by season. At Assateague Island, one camper advises: "We've been going here as a family for over 6 years. Its a great place to relax with less people on the public and private beaches. The wild ponies and deer are beautiful!!" while another warns: "It's beautiful here, horses are cool, beach is great, but the bugs stink! Bring some deet it's the only thing that works!"
Weather preparedness: Coastal locations experience significant weather conditions. "We checked out the awesome views on the bayside trails. There is an app you can use to identify the ponies. The showers are cold but at least there is running water," shares a visitor to Assateague Island.
Wildlife interactions: At Bayside Assateague Campground, horses frequently visit sites. One camper recounts: "A small herd of them (around 8) decided to hangout in our campsite waiting for their meal. This meant we couldn't get ours. As soon as any food would come into 'nose-shot,' they would start advancing on us."
Campsite selection: Size and privacy vary significantly between sites. "Small by some State Park standards, Tuckahoe offers two loops: a tent/cabin site, and an electric site for RVs. The sites are well maintained," explains one reviewer about Tuckahoe State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Free bike options: Some parks offer complimentary bicycle use. At Trap Pond, "They also had 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."
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play areas for children. One Martinak State Park visitor mentions: "We had a great time with our 3 little ones. They have lots of easily walked trails. Bath houses are kept clean. They have quite a few playgrounds throughout the park, which was a major plus for us."
Water activities for kids: Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday provides extensive water recreation. A visitor shares: "We stayed in water view 13 and it was a the perfect site. A little far for the kiddo to be at the park but the view was great, the Wi-Fi worked well, and the pull through site was perfect for our camper."
Educational opportunities: Several parks feature nature centers and educational programs. At Trap Pond, "There is also a nature center. Recycling and dumpsters between Loops A and B and another between Loops C and D."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by location. At Trap Pond State Park Campground, "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."
Site dimensions: Check campground maps for size constraints. A Delaware Seashore camper notes: "Sites were a bit tight; I believe online it says they're 45x30 but I find that hard to believe. Our trailer is almost 38 feet and we only had a little room left over."
Leveling challenges: Terrain may require additional equipment. At Trap Pond, "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."
Dump station access: Most state parks provide dump stations but often lack full hookups. A Martinak visitor mentioned: "Good dump station and potable water fill. Spigots throughout the campground."
