Maryland's Eastern Shore offers several camping options beyond Queenstown's major campgrounds. The region features numerous water access points for boating and fishing with mean summer temperatures of 85°F and winter lows around 25°F. Campgrounds in this area typically open from April through October, with some year-round facilities available for off-season camping.
What to do
Water activities at multiple locations: Lums Pond State Park Campground provides excellent kayaking access just 30 minutes from Queenstown. "If you like boating, kayaking or canoeing, this is the place! Camped here at the end of summer, really loved it. Had our kayaks with us and the water wasn't but a few steps away," notes Janet P. about Bar Harbor RV Park & Marina.
Lighthouse exploration: Take a short drive to visit Turkey Point Lighthouse near Elk Neck State Park Campground. "The Turkey Point Lighthouse is nearby... definitely drive to, and then hike to the lighthouse (open most weekends) the lighthouse and the view are definitely worth it," advises David G.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer fishing access directly from campsites. Lisa T. comments about Bar Harbor: "Fishing piers, (I love to crab) catch them and steam them in my camper (a MD thing :-) Only bait at the camp store or within 25 miles is night crawlers. Bring your own if you're a fishing person."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Premium waterfront sites provide exceptional scenery. "Beautiful water front sites and good location right off 95. Cute little dock, fishing from your campsite if waterfront and an area to put in small boats or kayaks," says Casey L. about Bar Harbor RV Park.
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards are generally high across campgrounds. "The bathhouse was absolutely immaculate, and the design made even my public-bathroom-phobic sister-in-law comfortable and at ease," remarks Mark about Lums Pond State Park Campground.
Natural surroundings: The wooded settings create privacy at many sites. "The campground is wooded and only has electric hookups available. The sites are well spaced," notes Adam and Suzanne B. about Tuckahoe State Park Campground.
What you should know
Campground size variations: Some parks are compact while others offer more extensive facilities. "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 Bill G.
Seasonal considerations: Many facilities close partially during winter. "Finished the season at this state park in MD with full hook up (20, 30, and 50 amp, water and sewer) and the water was still on in November. Bathhouses were open with hot water," shares Laure D.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. "No cell signal in the campground so the family is forced to disconnect," mentions Megan S. about Elk Neck State Park, which she considers a positive feature.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature play areas for children. "There's a small playground and play set. The sites are close but there were all sizes of RVs there, even large class A," reports Laure D. about Bar Harbor.
Activity considerations: Some parks offer more family-oriented features than others. "For kids, there's a simple swingset in the loop and a larger, newer playground," notes Jean C. about Martinak State Park Campground, adding that "Tuckahoe offers a number of additional activities, including disc golf, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, and boating."
Educational opportunities: Junior ranger programs provide learning experiences. "If you're looking to learn and explore with your kids, there is an extensive junior ranger program," advises Jean C. regarding sister parks Martinak and Tuckahoe.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Research specific site dimensions before booking at RV parks near Queenstown, Maryland. "In the full hook up loop pay close attention to the lengths specified. The actual pads are fairly level but some of the driveways to them are very sloped. Long rigs will have issues in a few of the sites," warns David G. about Elk Neck.
Hookup locations: Utility placement can be challenging at some campgrounds. "The site offered electric and water but they were on 2 different sides. This made it difficult to set up. Had to park the camper crooked to use both," shares Amanda H. about Lums Pond.
Year-round camping options: Cherry Hill Park offers extended season camping with full amenities. "50 amp hook-up, water, sewer, playground, mini golf, swimming pool, hot tub, basketball court, snack bar on site, nightly hayride, gated, on-site camp store," lists Beth R., though noting the "gravel pad" and "expensive" rates among the few downsides.
