Camping near Pocomoke City involves navigating varied coastal terrain where the elevation rarely exceeds 50 feet above sea level. The region's humid subtropical climate creates distinct camping challenges from May through September when temperatures average 80°F and mosquito activity peaks. Maryland's Eastern Shore campgrounds typically experience afternoon thunderstorms during summer months, with the most stable weather conditions occurring in October.
What to do
Kayaking on the Pocomoke River: Launch from Pocomoke River State Park Campground where paddlers can explore multiple water routes. "The kayaking alone is worth the trip," notes Kristen D. from Janes Island State Park, who adds that despite summer heat, "the bugs weren't bad at all, a few mosquito bites, and the biting flies were kept at bay by cutter."
Beach exploration at Assateague: The 37-mile shoreline offers secluded spots accessible by bike or foot. "Assateague Island has TWO bike/hike access beaches, and those are our favorite. You can drive to Assateague from Chincoteague with your bikes, and then park. One bike beach is off of the Wildlife Loop, and is on pavement the whole way," explains Rita M. who stayed at Tom's Cove Park.
Wildlife viewing and birdwatching: The marshes and waterways support extensive wildlife viewing opportunities. "Lots of wildlife to watch. They offer kayak rentals, we really enjoyed kayaking through the water trails. You can also kayak out to a sand beach. You can go crabbing for blue crabs," reports Carrie N. about her experience at Janes Island.
What campers like
Clean, modern facilities: Many campgrounds have recently updated bathroom facilities. "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!)," notes Sarah G. about Milburn Landing Campground.
Spacious, shaded campsites: The pine forest provides natural cooling during hot months. "Sites are the perfect size for our tent and canopy, and are secluded enough that you aren't on top of your neighbors. Bath houses are clean and updated, and I like that they have a sink outside to wash dishes," says Shelby B. about Pocomoke River State Park.
Water access: Direct access to water for fishing and boating ranks high with campers. "If you like kayaking, this is a great campground to stay at. My husband and son kayaked from the campground over to a lovely sand bar off of Assateague Island. They got within very close range of a herd of ponies grazing at low tide," shares Rita M. about her experience at Tom's Cove Park.
What you should know
Seasonal insect conditions: Biting insects can be problematic during certain periods. At Janes Island State Park Campground, Sarah M. warns: "Unfortunately the bugs were so bad, it was nearly impossible to enjoy. No-see-ums bite all day long, bug spray helps with these. Deer flies bite from the morning sun until it's dark and they are the worst at dusk."
Water and hookup limitations: Not all campgrounds provide full services. "No water or sewer hook ups, but dump and water station is clean and close," notes John Z. about Janes Island, while Jason B. adds about Shad Landing: "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."
Campsite flooding concerns: Low-lying sites may collect water after rainfall. Nick C. cautions about Shad Landing: "One thing I did have trouble with is the grade of the sites are somewhat downhill so if you do end up camping during a time it rains be sure to put your tent on a tarp. I was floating my tent the night it rained."
Tips for camping with families
Plan for water activities: Swimming and wading spots keep kids entertained. "Assateague State Park is a very well run campground with a prime location by a lovely wild beach... The best thing about this place are the sparkling clean bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot water showers," shares Melanie about Assateague State Park Campground.
Bring bikes for exploration: Bike-friendly paths connect many campgrounds to beaches and trails. "Safe place for kids to bike," mentions Rita M. about Tom's Cove Park, while another camper at Assateague National Seashore notes: "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."
Establish wildlife safety rules: Wild ponies require specific precautions. "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," warns Tony P. about Oceanside Assateague National Seashore.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose sites carefully based on vehicle size. "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. Most sites are gravel pad with electric. Would strongly suggest only tents, pop ups and travel trailers under 30'," advises Terri N. about Milburn Landing.
Local supply locations: Know where to restock necessities. "Walmart is about 10 minutes, maybe less away. RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," shares Jason B. about Shad Landing, while another camper at Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday notes: "You have to drive 10 or so minutes to find amenities."
RV dump station availability: Plan for waste management. "There is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot," notes Jason B. about Shad Landing, while another visitor to Tall Pines Harbor warns: "The black tank clean out is near site WV15 so avoid that area. They pump it out daily."
