Glamping options near Chincoteague Island provide elevated outdoor accommodations with the Chesapeake Bay watershed's unique ecosystem as backdrop. Located at sea level with an average of 213 sunny days per year, the region features flat terrain perfect for family camping adventures. Most campgrounds sit at elevations under 20 feet, creating ideal conditions for waterfront camping but requiring bug preparation during summer months.
What to do
Kayak through cypress wetlands: Pocomoke River State Park Campground offers exceptional kayaking trails through natural cypress forests. "We are kayakers in the warm weather and hikers when its cooler. We have kayaked north to Snow Hill, Md, south to Milburn Landing, west up Nassawango Creek, and Corkers Creek at the campsite," shares one camper who appreciates the variety of waterways to explore.
Free bike adventures: Trap Pond State Park Campground provides complimentary bike rentals for campers wanting to explore the area. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals (in season)," notes a reviewer who enjoyed the cost-saving amenity.
Wild pony observation: Take a short trip from your campsite to see the famous wild horses in their natural habitat. "Close to Chincoteague and Assateague if you're there to see the wild ponies," mentions a camper at Chincoteague Island KOA, highlighting the main attraction that draws many visitors to the area.
Waterfront fishing: Janes Island State Park Campground features excellent fishing spots directly from the campground. "Great kayaking to Jane's Island. Very clean bathrooms. Very family oriented... Nice trails, wide and easy," reports a visitor who appreciated the easy access to water activities.
What campers like
Elevated beach access: Glamping close to Chincoteague Island, Virginia offers direct routes to shoreline recreation. "The camp sites weren't so much as individual sites so much as you just set up somewhere in the huge grass field. Close to a lighthouse and I believe it made a sound occasionally," explains a Chincoteague Island KOA visitor describing the flexible camping setup.
Water sports variety: Pocomoke River State Park Shad Landing provides multiple water recreation options. "The river is great for fishing, kayaking, and boating. When camp store is open it is very minimalistic. Walmart is about 10 minutes, maybe less away," explains a reviewer highlighting both the natural amenities and practical shopping information.
Bird watching opportunities: Waterside campsites offer excellent wildlife observation. "This is an older campground- family run. If you want slick/new go to the KoA resort. If you want peace & quiet & to wake up to water birds fishing in the pond on site, come here!" shares a guest at Pine Grove Campground, explaining the natural appeal of this less-developed option.
Night sky viewing: The relative isolation of camping areas allows for exceptional stargazing. "We loved watching all the different birds and seeing so many stars," mentions a camper who appreciated the dark skies at Pocomoke River State Park.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities vary widely: Quality and cleanliness of restrooms differs significantly between campgrounds. "The bathrooms in the fox den loop need updated as well- I noticed the doors are rusted and the stalls are very small," notes a Pocomoke River camper, contrasting with positive reviews at other parks.
Seasonal bug considerations: Insect activity increases dramatically in warmer months. "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," warns a Janes Island visitor about summer conditions.
Water system flooding: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues during rainstorms. "A mild rainstorm during the night caused the septic system to overflow, inundating many of the campsites with black water," reports a camper about an infrastructure problem at one location.
Off-season limitations: Facility closures affect available amenities outside peak season. "The park store and visitor's centers were both closed, and check-in was by telephone from our site," explains a reviewer describing reduced services during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives for kids: Milburn Landing Campground offers cabins as an introduction to outdoor camping. "I stayed in a mini cabin, and it was a great rustic-but not too rustic option. Basically camping but not having to set up a tent," reports a visitor who found this option perfect for families new to camping.
Water park access: Some campgrounds include water recreation facilities ideal for children during hot weather. "This campground is super clean, has nice sized sites, everyone is friendly and helpful. It's our favorite campground," mentions a family who appreciated the convenience of on-site water activities.
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate family pets with designated areas. "Two loops allow dogs, one with electric and one without. Clean Bathrooms in each loop with nice showers and plenty of hot water," explains a camper detailing the pet policy at one park.
Campground navigation: Large properties require planning for facilities access. "Loop G - Acorn trail is for campers with pets. The camp sites are in the outer loop of the circular road with lots of space between each site. Lots of shade. There are several paths (like spokes on a wheel) that lead to the bathrooms which are in the middle of the loop," explains a visitor sharing the layout for families needing bathroom access.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Sun Outdoors Ocean City provides various RV sites with differing amenities. "We stayed in the 'big rig' site within Club Castaway right on the water as we have a 40ft rig. Amenities are clean, staff friendly and helpful," notes a camper with a large recreational vehicle who found appropriate accommodation.
Size restrictions: Some campgrounds limit larger vehicles. "RV sites are very tight. Anything over 35' in my opinion will be hard to get into sites," warns a camper about navigating certain parks with bigger rigs.
Utility access variations: Water and electric hookups differ between campgrounds and specific sites. "Sites over here are more private than the Milburn area (across the river, about a 25 min drive), but I understand they are renovating several bathhouses this summer, so read the website alerts and choose your loop carefully!" advises an RVer highlighting the importance of research.
Backing assistance: Some sites require maneuvering help. "We noticed how close together the campsites were. So close that people camping on both sides were setting up parts of their equipment on our campsite. The staff was pleasant and accommodated us and let us pick out our own site where we felt way more comfortable," shares a visitor who appreciated the staff's flexibility with site assignment.
