Trap Pond State Park Campground and Pocomoke River State Park offer unique glamping accommodations within 20 miles of White Plains, Maryland. This coastal Maryland region sits at a low elevation of 10-35 feet above sea level with a humid subtropical climate. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while winter camping sees temperatures around 30-45°F, making proper shelter essential in all seasons.
What to do
Kayaking through cypress swamps: At Pocomoke River State Park Campground, the water trails provide diverse paddling experiences. "We have kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite. All these kayak trails are wonderful! Plenty to see, no bugs, no mosquitoes," notes one visitor who appreciates the natural insect protection from the cypress waters.
Biking on free rentals: Several campgrounds offer complimentary bicycle programs. At Fort Whaley RV Resort Campground, "They have pedal boats and canoes that you can take out on the lake... There is a nice pool and a very nice mini golf course that we played almost every night because it was a fun thing to do after dark and before bed. They also have a variety of sporting goods to borrow at the store, horseshoes, basketballs, and whiffle ball sets to name a few."
Pontoon boat tours: Scenic water tours operate seasonally at some parks. "45-minute Pontoon boat tours are available on weekends Memorial Day–Labor Day. There are several boat docks if you bring your own boat," according to a Trap Pond visitor who appreciated the water access options beyond personal watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Trap Pond State Park Campground, the layout provides good separation. "All are level and sand/grass. There are many trees and reasonable separation between sites (although you can easily see your neighbors). A large picnic table and fire ring complete the site," reports a recent visitor who valued the balance between community and privacy.
Clean, modern bathhouses: The facilities receive regular maintenance at most area campgrounds. At Janes Island State Park Campground, "The bathrooms were nicer than my bath at home and sparkling clean. Staff was amazingly pleasant and helpful. The campground was quiet and peaceful." Another camper noted bathrooms "were cleaned 3 times a day for COVID."
Cabin and yurt comfort: Elevated camping options provide solid shelters with amenities. At Milburn Landing Campground, "I stayed in a group of 5 people to camp and hike in Pocomoke River State Park. The twin bunk beds were extremely comfortable and felt rather large with two of us sleeping in them. The cabin stayed warm and exceeded expectations."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Popular glamping sites fill quickly, especially waterfront options. A Cape Henlopen visitor reports, "We visited off season (early April) and absolutely loved it. The location was great and the beaches are quiet. I hear it gets packed and I see that it's hard to book if you don't book early."
Seasonal bugs: Biting insects vary dramatically by season in this coastal region. "If you go before June or after September, you're more likely to have a good time. Taking two stars off for bug issues," warns a Janes Island camper who experienced deer flies that were "the worst at dusk."
Site selection challenges: At Cape Henlopen State Park Campground, "None of the sites are level. Sites are mostly small and close together. The closer you are to the camp store, the louder and busier it is. Lots of kids. If you want quiet stay to the ends of the rows. E and F are quieter too."
Tips for camping with families
Free activities on-site: Many glamping locations in White Plains include complimentary recreation. "The daytime activities for kids were fun as well and my son even 'set the alarm' so he wouldn't miss out on tie dyeing a t-shirt," shares a Fort Whaley visitor detailing the structured programming.
Educational opportunities: Nature centers provide learning experiences for children. At Trap Pond, "If you have kiddos, try and get a site in Loop A – there is a nice and educational play area (plus a game I'd never heard of– Gaga ball). There is an additional playground in the day-use area, plus a volleyball net. There is also a nature center."
Bathroom proximity: Consider site location relative to facilities when camping with small children. A Pocomoke River visitor cautions that some sites are "a bit too far from the bath house for those traveling with little kids," making nighttime trips challenging.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the White Plains area require effort to level RVs. At Cape Henlopen, "Sites 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," reports a visitor who struggled despite equipment designed for this purpose.
Electric hookup limitations: Check amperage availability when booking glamping in White Plains, Maryland. At Sun Outdoors Ocean City Gateway, one visitor noted they have "Full hookups: 20/30/50 amp water & sewer," providing options for various RV power needs that aren't available at all parks in the region.
