The best camping near Assateague State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Assateague State Park adventure.

88% (8 reviews)

Sandy beaches, wild ponies, and bird-filled marshlands await.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Assateague State Park

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Assateague State Park

88%

(8)

Assateague Campground

312 sites · RVs, Tents In Assateague State Park

Explore camping beyond Assateague State ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in State Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near Assateague State Park

98%

(258)

Strawberry Crossroads

57 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents48 acres · Pittsville, MD

Private retreat while still having access to hot showers and flushable toilets. . Stocked Catch and Release Fishing Lake. Volleyball, Basketball Court, and Wooded Trail. Primitive camp sites, Rv electrical hookups, to mini cabins there is a level to accommodate. All while only being 20 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City MD, and Assateague Island. Have a day at the beach then relax by a fire while nature sings you to sleep.

100%

(109)

Why Not Acres

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Frankford, DE

HORSES WELCOME! Why not run your horse on the beach, then come to our campsites to relax for the rest of your day. There is a fenced pasture positioned next to the sites so you can see your faithful friend enjoying some grass or hay. We have a new Zinger 29' trailer set up with a bunk room and another bedroom, full kitchen and bathroom. It can easily sleep six people. If you have your own RV, we have a full hook up at the same area. The pasture where your horse stays will also have hay, water and shelter with a run-in. This is a sanctuary for our animals. We have nine animals here, four horses (some minnies) and five donkeys (some minnies). By staying here, you will be helping us to support our animals. We are in Frankford, De which is close to all the beaches and parks. There are many shopping adventures awaiting you, either outlets or upcycle stores. If you just want to relax, there is a small pond out back stocked with bass and turtles. We have 17+ acres but we only use the front five acres and leave the rest for the deer, foxes, eagles, hawks and whatever else shows up. We believe this is Heaven on earth and would love to share it will you. So please come, stay at our farm and relax. We are here year round.

Booked 4 times

Shore Point Cottages

41 sites · Lodging10 acres · Ocean City, MD

Shore Point Cottages has everything you need for your Ocean City getaway. Each Cottage has a patio with a privacy fence that is curated with privacy walls and fire features. Looking to bring your furry friend along? Our cottages also have a dog washing station to help clean up after outdoor activities. Bike rentals are available on our property in addition to discounted tickets for Sea Rocket and Frontier Town Water Park.

97%

(30)

Emily's place

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Millsboro, DE

Secluded shady quiet spot for tent campers that will accommodate up to 8 people. Close to Rehoboth Beach and Lewes, Delaware. Go to the beach or stay here and relax. Outlets, groceries and restaurants are close by. Very close to the Indian River for boating, fishing, kayaking and crabbing. LGBTQ+ friendly. Bring your friends and have fun. Book 4 or more days and receive 10% discount.

100%

(66)

Jane H.’s Land at Barefoot Pine

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · MD

Learn more about this land: Close drive to town of Berlin, with nice restaurants and shops. Approx 6 miles to Assateague Island, explore nature, visit ocean and experience all kinds of coastal wild life including Assateague ponies. Visit Ocean City boardwalk for family fun, games, amusements and much more.

96%

(23)

Adventures Await Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, RVs135 acres · Houston, DE

Walking trails, indoor pool, mini golf, playground, dog park, close to beeches and casino.

Booked 3 times

Country Camping Near Beaches

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Milton, DE

Camp in a backyard in a quiet area with a barn and horses nearby. Site 1 has water hookup and a 30 amp and 110 outlet available. Site 2 has water access and a 110 outlet available. Site 3 is for tent camping only and is more secluded. It does have water access available. This is a great spot to watch the sunset or watch the stars at night. These all are self contained camping spots. I do have two very friendly dogs that will most likely come say hi to you. Dewey Beer is 1 mile away in Harbeson. Lewes beach is only about 10 minutes away and Rehoboth beach is about 20 minutes away. Sports at the beach is only 5 miles away. Tanger outlets is 8 miles away. Delaware Turf sports complex is 24 miles. There are many great restaurants and shopping nearby.

95%

(11)

Log Cabin Tranquil Inn

1 site · RV, Tent4 acres · Vienna, MD

Learn more about this land:Peaceful, tranquil space with many large Old Growth Trees 🌲 🌳 migratory birds 🦅 eagle population 3rd largest in USA. Pond to kayak, meditative areas.... 50 miles from the ocean 🌊 beach locations: Assateague, Ocean City, Bethany Beach... Rehoboth, Delaware. Property has a stone Fire 🔥 place for the winter months

96%

(92)

Deer Forest Hideaways

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Bridgeville, DE

Quiet rural area with forest beside a working farm. You can see lots of deer and wild turkey from the primitive camp sites that look out under the trees to the ag field. We're near all Delaware beaches, Ocean City, Maryland, and Nanticoke River boat ramps and canoe launches. Like to ride bikes - find a bike trail nearby at Redden Forest, or at Trap Pond State Park or if you want paved riding, try the Georgetown-LewesTrail. Want to take a tour of a local brewery? Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton - local tours. October camping? Don't forget to book the 1st full weekend in October and you won't miss the Apple Scrapple Festival in Bridgeville. Food, crafts, antique cars, rides, vendors and did I say food?Best of both worlds - solitude and forest camping but near the crowded beaches and rivers.

100%

(1)

Bay Breeze Bungalow

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Horntown, VA

Small shore property connected to the wetlands and the bay behind Chincoteague and Assateague islands. About 20 minutes to the town of Chincoteague and about a half hour to the beaches of Assateague island and the wild ponies that live there. The property is in a small private community that has it's own private marina and dock along with a crabbing pier. Bring your small boat, kayak, paddleboard, crab traps, and fishing pole.

97%

(478)

Kingsley Orchards, LLC

5 sites · RVs, Tents36 acres · Frankford, DE

Pitch your tent or park your RV on our historic 36-acre blueberry farm. Picnic tables, charcoal grills, and fire pits are located on lots. We are a newly renovated farm that has an almost 60-year history. Very close to Delaware and Ocean City Beaches! Our property is also monitored by security cameras. Once owned by Tom Ryan and part of the 100+ acres of Ryan's Berry Farm, Kingsley Orchards now owns the middle 36 acres and market building of the historic farm. Efforts paid off and the farm and market opened in June 2017 with a beautiful crop of blueberries and many multi-generational customers coming back with their children. The best outcome has been the opportunity to share growing food with children and helping them learn a love for outdoors and farming. Many of the customers remember their own grandparents bringing them to the farm! We had customers from age 1 to 89 picking blueberries We also offer a climate controlled venue for parties, events and several campsites on our farm.

100%

(2)

Stargazer Yurt Near Ocean City, MD

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Selbyville, DE

YURTS ARE OPEN FROM MAY 1st - OCT 31st 2025 The Stargazer yurt has an amazing 360-degree panel located around the roof canopy to give you a sky view, with an easy clip-on sunshade curtain included. It also has two canvas doors, each with a mosquito net door behind. Roll down canvas blind windows, zip open PVC windows to keep out heavy rain, and behind them, a mesh layer to keep out mozzies and allow maximum airflow in summer. The space strictly sleeps 2 guests and children must be over 12yo to stay at our yurts. INCLUDED IN YOUR STAY -Space for two (2) guests only -Queen size bed with clean linens -A handy 3-speed fan -Multi electrical sockets with two USB ports -Sitting area with a chair and books -Picnic table with floating chandelier -Fire pit with two chairs -Large outdoor sink w/ two hoses The Stargazer is one of two beautiful Lotus Belle yurts we have pitched here at Cowtown Glamping Cabins. Plenty of room for two (2) guests, and there's also an outdoor grill to prepare your favorite meal, a picnic table, and a fire pit with two chairs included. Inside the space is a comfy queen-sized bed with clean linens, a sitting area with books, and major western-boho vibes throughout. You'll be happy to know the glampground has WIFI access so you can easily keep up with work and play along with being just minutes from popular beaches. Cowtown Cabins is centrally located being only 6 miles from the ocean with nearby restaurants, McDonald's, Starbucks, 2 grocery stores, a pharmacy nearby, and even a water park! Everything you could want will be at your fingertips! BATHROOMS AND SHOWERS -Glamping guests have access to our unique "saloon themed" bathhouse that is open year-round. There are also two additional outdoor showers. Be sure to bring your bath towel & bathroom supplies. ABOUT Cowtown Cabins offers a blend of educational ranch experiences that cater to both overnight guests and the public. From themed accommodations to a variety of ranch activities and close proximity to the ocean and boardwalks, Cowtown Cabins caters to diverse interests, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and individuals looking for a unique getaway. It's a destination location where guests can step back in time while enjoying modern comforts, making it a charming retreat for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. WHAT TO BRING - A cooler with you to keep drinks and food cold in the yurt and at the beach. (Ice is for sale less than a mile away at a gas station or grocery store) - Your own bath towels, beach towels and bathroom supplies - An extra fan in the summer - Electric blankets/ thick blankets in the fall - Firewood and charcoal for grilling (we also have some for sale on-site) - Bring everything you need to camp out comfortably! GREAT LOCATION Cowtown is located in Selbyville, Delaware which sits near the border of Maryland and is 6 miles to North Ocean City, MD. The property has been a horse-rescuing ranch for over two decades and is now expanding to offer many unique structures in an "Old West" theme. Surrounding the ranch are restaurants galore, grocery stores, pharmacies, McDonalds, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and more! Thunder Lagoon Waterpark and live concerts at Freeman Stage are also nearby! Cowtown Cabins is open year-round and is available for couples, families, groups, organizations, retreats, and even the occasional western-themed wedding. FAQ's 1. Can I bring my kids? Children must be ages 12yo and up for both yurts (Stargazer and Painted Pony.) Remember there is a 2-guest max due to fire code. 2. Can I bring my pet or service animals? No. We are ADA service animal exempt due to safety issues with animals on display that are natural prey/ natural predators of animals including dogs. We also not not allow pets due to this. 3. Can I smoke? The yurts are strictly NO smoking inside, no vaping and no marijuana smoking as the next guest will appreciate an odorless welcome and you'll avoid the extra "deep cleaning fee." 4. Which yurt should I choose? The main difference between the Painted Pony yurt and the Stargazer yurt is the roof and setting. The Stargazer yurt has a clear roof and sits in the open. (Keep in mind elements out of our control like wind, dust, and pollen counts can make the Stargazer yurt roof less clear.) The Painted Pony yurt, has a regular canvas roof and sits in the shade. Both yurts have 3-speed fans included and do not have AC or heat. 5. Extra guests in the yurt? The yurts have a strict 2-guest-only policy. 6. Can friends (not on my reservation) come visit me? No. All visitors here must be registered guests as the public is not granted access here. 7. How far is the beach? North Ocean City, MD and Fenwick Island DE are both only 5-6 miles away. 8. How secure is the camping area? There is a coded entrance gate at the property entrance along with 6 outdoor security cameras that stay on 24 hours a day for guest and livestock safety. The locations are 2 at the entrance gate, barn house entrance/building overhang, tiny house entrance, horse grooming area, parking area, and inside the stables. These outdoor cameras also record at night and are available for any emergency services to review. 9. Are there animals nearby? Yes! Cowtown is named after our unique Scottish Highland bull with one horn up and one down. You'll see “Herbie” peacefully grazing in a nearby pasture along with horses, goats, an alpaca, a sheep, a rare curly-haired pig, a peacock, and fancy top-hat chickens that all call the ranch home. 10. Participating in a guest activity is mandatory here. We have FREE indoor scavenger hunts and the FREE Name Challenge memory game. Our most popular experience is "Chores N' Tour” where you meet up with Shelley to feed and get up close and personal while feeding 20+ animals. Go ahead! take selfies with Fonzie the kissing alpaca, play the rollover challenge with Charlotte the pig, and hay the jumping goats. As a bonus, Shelley will also let you check out the inside of any unoccupied Airbnbs on the property to plan your next trip! Chores N' tour is $10/ person. 1 hr. long. Also on-site, are Brush N' Bond horse grooming sessions, horse whispering lessons, and farm animal paint sessions. Once you book, send Shelley a message with your chosen ranch activity! 11. Do guests have access to the entire ranch? No, guests have access to the glampground, cornhole, and parking area here at the ranch. The rest of the property is reserved for animal pastures (habitats) and fenced off for safety. Animals are easily viewed from all locations but not touched. 12. What sounds can I expect to hear? Expect to hear typical sounds of nature such as crickets, owls, and the crackling of a fire. In the morning, you'll hear our sweet goat trio, Charlotte the pig, and her excited "oinks" along with the occasional "moooo" and possibly a crow from the rooster and a "honk" from Petey our peacock who is ready for breakfast! 13. What are the check-out procedures? We ask that guests leave the yurt the way they found it (neat and tidy.) We also love to brag about any super clean guests!

The best camping near Assateague State Park guide

Overview

About

Encompassing a two-mile stretch of Assateague Island, Assateague State Park is an idyllic slice of nature—think white-sand beaches, rolling dunes, and lush marshes. Campers can choose from primitive sites or electric hookups at Assateague State Campground, all within easy reach of the beach, where you can swim, fish, or paddle out to tranquil coves by canoe or kayak. The island’s prime location on the Atlantic Flyway means birdwatchers are in their element, with huge numbers of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. Keep a look out for the island’s equine residents, too—herds of wild ponies roam freely around the park.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve the park’s 350 campsites online via Maryland Parks Reservations.
Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
Campsites can book up fast, especially for peak season (June-September) and holiday weekends. Aim to book more than six months in advance for these times.

When to go

Summertime is the most popular time to visit Assateague State Park, when swimming and water sports draw crowds to the coast. Shorebirds migrate to the marshes along the Atlantic Flyway in summer, while fall sees large numbers of waterfowl swoop in. Camping is possible from the last week of April through the last weekend of October, but year-round camping is available on the surrounding national seashore.

Know before you go

Assateague State Park is 12 miles south of Ocean City or about a 30-minute drive away. Entrance to the island is via the Assateague Island State Park Boat Ramp, while the rest of the island is part of the Assateague Island National Seashore.
Along with camping, boating, and watercraft fees, day-use fees also apply.
Park facilities include a day-use and beach area, a summer snack bar, accessible portable restrooms, and a marina with a boat launch and fishing pier. The mainland visitor center has restrooms, a gift shop, and an aquarium.
Surfboards, kayaks, and non-motorized vessels may be launched from the beach in daylight hours, outside of the swimming area. Swimming is permitted in the flag-designated swimming area only, but there is no lifeguard service.
Assateague has free-roaming herds of wild ponies, and visitors are advised to keep a distance, as the feral animals may kick or bite. Keep all food secured at your campsite, and do not approach ponies if they enter the camping areas.

88%

8 ratings · 3 reviews

May 2022

hi how can I reserve for tent camping?

Sudip B.

2 years on Hipcamp

October 2017

Amazing facilities - clean, well-lit, and warm water in the sinks and showers (free, not coin-op). Lots of horses wandering around, so make sure to not leave any food out. Plenty of beautiful beach expanses to relax and wander, and there's some great kayaking in the area. Booking weekends are tough if you don't plan in advance!

Amalie U.

7 years on Hipcamp

July 2017

What's better than beach camping with wild horses?!? This review is for the Assateague Island STATE park as there is a big difference ... bath houses with warm showers! The park and facilities are well maintained and always clean. Great breezes off of the water make beach camping tolerable as there is no shade to be found anywhere, so be prepared to bring canopys to hide from the relentless sun. There is 1 loop that has electricity but, I've been camping here for years and have never been able to score a campsite with electricity (its nearly impossible). Must book early (like a year in advance) if you want to camp as it is a highly visited park. The park rangers host daily events that are family friendly and educational.

Jocelyn D.

7 years on Hipcamp

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between camping at Assateague State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore?

Both Assateague State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore offer camping experiences on the beautiful Assateague Island, but there are some differences between the two:

Assateague State Park:

Located in Maryland and managed by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
Offers 350 campsites, including some with electric hookups for RVs.
Provides amenities such as bathhouses, picnic tables, fire rings, and a camp store.
Has a designated swimming area with lifeguards during the summer season.
Allows pets only in specific loops.

Assateague Island National Seashore:

Managed by the National Park Service and spans across Maryland and Virginia.
Offers two campgrounds: Oceanside and Bayside, with over 150 campsites in total.
Campsites are more primitive, with no electric hookups and limited amenities.
Provides cold-water showers, chemical toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings.
Allows pets in designated areas and campgrounds.
Offers more opportunities for backcountry camping and exploring.

Both locations provide a unique experience with opportunities to see the famous wild horses that roam the island. The choice between the two depends on your preference for amenities and the level of adventure you seek.

Can you camp overnight on Assateague Island?

Yes, you can camp overnight on Assateague Island. The island is divided into two main areas: Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park. Both areas offer camping options. Assateague Island National Seashore has two campgrounds: Oceanside Campground and Bayside Campground. Oceanside Campground is close to the beach, while Bayside Campground is closer to the bay. You can find more information about camping at the National Seashore here. Assateague State Park also offers camping, with 350 campsites available. The campsites are located near the beach, and you can find more information about camping at Assateague State Park here. Please note that reservations are required for both the National Seashore and State Park campgrounds, and it is essential to follow the rules and regulations to protect the island's natural resources and wildlife.

How many campsites are in Assateague State Park?

Assateague State Park offers 350 campsites for visitors. These campsites accommodate a variety of camping options, including tents, RVs, and trailers. You can find more information about the park and its campsites here.

How much does it cost to camp at Assateague State Park?

At Assateague State Park in Maryland, camping fees vary depending on the type of campsite, season, and day of the week. For a standard campsite without hookups, the fees range from $25 to $45 per night. Electric campsites range from $35 to $55 per night. The park also offers discounts for Maryland residents and senior citizens. You can find more information about camping at Assateague State Park on the Hipcamp Assateague State Park page and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reservation site.