Camping sites near White Plains, Maryland consist of a mix of coastal and forested options within 30-90 miles of town. The region sits at a modest elevation of under 100 feet above sea level, with high humidity levels during summer months due to proximity to Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic coastal waters. Winter camping remains viable in the region with average January temperatures rarely dropping below freezing for extended periods.
What to do
Kayaking at Trap Pond: Trap Pond State Park Campground provides exceptional paddling opportunities through unique cypress tree formations. "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," notes Lucia B. The park offers boat, kayak and canoe rentals plus free bike loans with optional donations.
Beach activities at Assateague: Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground allows beach fires after dusk. "After dark you can do beach fires as long as they're below the high tide line so they wash out," explains Tony P. The oceanside provides quick access to both swimming and surf fishing opportunities within walking distance of campsites.
Hiking at Pocomoke River: Several well-maintained trails wind through Pocomoke River State Park's distinctive forest ecosystem. "Plenty of trails all around the area. Some horses and bike trails available..even some atv," reports Cindy S. The park connects to multiple water trails, allowing combined hiking and paddling excursions during warmer months.
What campers like
Island camping options: Trap Pond State Park Campground offers unique island camping sites accessible by water. "My sons and I spent four nights on the island site and loved it. We walked around the pond and rented boats and kayaks for the day and rowed back to our site which the kids loved," shares Lucia B.
Wildlife encounters: Horses frequently visit campsites at Assateague. "Wild horses meandering through daily. Some sites are more private than others- some not private at all, so carefully review the map and the images when booking," advises Danielle. The wildlife interactions create memorable experiences unique to coastal Maryland camping.
Winter camping comfort: Shad Landing Campground maintains year-round accessibility 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," reports Alisha M. at Trap Pond.
What you should know
Bug preparation essential: Bayside Assateague Campground requires thorough bug protection measures. "Love this place but be prepared for the bugs. Even enjoyed this in the winter," warns Michael W. The marshy conditions create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes and biting flies, particularly during summer.
Site flooding concerns: Delaware Seashore State Park experiences occasional flooding during heavy rains. "Beautiful park right across from the beach. Took a group of 20 tent camping here and it went great! However, it does flood in the rain," notes Nicole S.
Horse management requirements: Assateague campers must secure food items from wild horses. "The standard is to hide all food as soon as you see the horses. This mean storing anything with a scent in your closed vehicle or in the 'horse box' under the picnic table," explains Wendy W., describing her Bayside experience.
Tips for camping with families
Free amenities for kids: Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway offers numerous included activities. "You can enjoy free mini golf, free pool and waterside, free canoeing, and free billiards. It is about 20 min to ocean city but they have a free bus to take you to ocean," writes Christy W. These amenities create substantial value for families on a budget.
Nature programs: Pocomoke River State Park provides educational activities. "The park has programs and we painted a picture of Chuck the Owl (he was our model) which was fun," shares Cindy S. These ranger-led programs help children connect with local wildlife.
Playground proximity: Fort Whaley offers strategic site selection near play areas. "Highly recommend our site to anyone with littles as you can literally relax at your site while your child plays at the playground!" recommends Debbie W., describing her experience at Sun Outdoors Ocean City.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Delaware Seashore State Park Campground requires careful site selection. "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," reports Gayle B.
Wind protection strategies: RVers at Delaware Seashore should monitor weather conditions. "The winds were nuts and over 50mph. We switched sites to spare our slide side, so caution to look at windy before going," advises Joe R.
Hookup limitations: Pocomoke River State Park provides partial hookups. "30 amp service available on Acorn Trail and Deer Run. No water or sewer hookups but there is a dump station at park entrance with a water fillup spot," notes Jason B. regarding Shad Landing. Most regional campgrounds lack full hookups, requiring careful water management.
