Beach Camping in Delaware

Beach camping in Delaware is an amazing opportunity to experience the starry nights on the state’s great outdoors. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or even cabin rentals, Delaware’s beach campgrounds provide a unique way to experience the state’s natural beauty. Prepare for ample starlight and pure natural beach bliss as we delve into the secrets of the best beach camping spots in Delaware and what makes each one special.

1. Cape Henlopen State Park

Location: Near Lewes, Delaware

Cape Henlopen State Park is one of Delaware’s premier destinations, especially if you are an outdoor enthusiast. The park offers a variety of camping options and is situated at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, providing stunning views and a wide range of recreational activities. 

The park has over 150 campsites suitable for tents and RVs. Each campsite has a picnic table and a fire ring. Many sites offer electric hookups, and there are modern amenities such as restrooms, showers, and a camp store.  For those who prefer a bit more comfort, Cape Henlopen also offers cabins that can be rented. These cabins provide a cozy and comfy retreat while still being close to the beach and other park attractions.

Beach camping in Delaware, Cape Henlopen State Park

What to do:

• The park has several miles of pristine beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. There you can spend the day enjoying all that the beach has to offer.

• If you love fishing, the Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier is a popular spot for anglers. The park also has designated surf fishing areas.
• Hiking and Biking on numerous trails, including the scenic Junction and Breakwater Trail and the Gordons Pond Trail, both offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
• Vist Historic Sites like the Fort Miles Historic Area within the park to learn about its role in World War II.

2. Delaware Seashore State Park

Location: Between Dewey Beach and Bethany Beach

Delaware Seashore State Park spans over 2,800 acres and features six miles of ocean and bay shoreline. It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers and offers a range of camping options. 

The park has two main campgrounds: the North Inlet Campground and the South Inlet Campground. Both offer sites for tents and RVs, with amenities such as electricity and water hookups, modern bathhouses, and laundry facilities. The south campground also has some spots with no hookups. Both campgrounds have bathhouses and a laundry room. The park has a museum, two restaurants, and a full-service marina. For a more comfy stay, the park also offers rental cottages that provide a home-like atmosphere with easy access to the beach.

Beach camping in Delaware Seashore State Park

What to do:

• Engage in all popular beach activities.  Enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on the park’s beaches. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months.
• Practice water sports in The Indian River Inlet , a popular spot for boating, jet skiing, and paddleboarding. The park also offers a marina with boat rentals.
• Fishing in the ocean or the bay. The Indian River Inlet is renowned for its excellent fishing conditions.
• Take part in one of the educational programs. The Indian River Life-Saving Station, located within the park, offers educational programs and exhibits about the history of the U.S. Life-Saving Service.

3. Deep Branch Family Campground

Location: Near Rehoboth Beach

Deep Branch Family Campground is open from May through October. There is RV and tent camping available. This campsite has 30-amp electricity and water hookups for campers, but no sewer hookups. There are several outdoor activities available at the campground, including volleyball, horseshoes, bocce, and a swimming pool. There is also a play area and a game room. A camp store featuring a cafe and a heated bathroom are located on the premises.

Beach camping in Delaware Deep Branch Family Campground

What to do:

• Swimming and beach fun at the nearby vibrant Rehoboth Beach
• Boardwalk attractions and experiences for all ages.
• Outdoor activities inside the camp’s premises
• Festivals & events at Rehoboth

4. Assateague Island National Seashore

Location: Extending from Maryland into Delaware

While primarily located in Maryland, Assateague Island National Seashore extends into Delaware and offers a unique beach camping experience with its wild, undeveloped beaches and iconic wild horses. Assateague offers primitive camping on the Maryland side, which is just a short drive from Delaware. Campsites are available for tents and RVs, but amenities are minimal, with only cold showers and chemical toilets. This provides a true wilderness camping experience.

Beach camping in Delaware Assateague Island National Seashore

What to do:

• Wildlife viewing as the island is famous for its wild horses, which roam freely. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching and observing other wildlife.
• Enjoy miles of unspoiled beaches for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
• Hiking and Biking as there are several trails that offer scenic views of the island’s diverse habitats, including marshes, forests, and dunes.
• Kayaking and Canoeing an Explore the island’s waterways by kayak or canoe, with rentals available on-site.

5. Trap Pond State Park

Location: Laurel, Delaware

While not directly on the beach, Trap Pond State Park is close to Delaware’s coastline and offers a unique camping experience surrounded by the state’s largest freshwater pond and one of the northernmost natural stands of bald cypress trees. The park offers over 140 campsites, including sites with electric and water hookups. Modern restrooms and shower facilities are available. For a more authentic experience, the park offers rental cabins and yurts that provide a cozy retreat in a picturesque setting.

Beach camping in Delaware Assateague Island National Seashore

What to do:

• Boating and fishing as the pond is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Boat rentals are available, and the park has several fishing piers.
• Hiking and biking in order to explore the park’s numerous trails, including the Bob Trail, which takes you through beautiful baldcypress stands.
• Guided tours and educational programs. The park offers a variety of nature programs and guided tours, providing insights into the local ecosystem and wildlife.

Read Also: Quiet Beaches in Delaware. A Tranquil Retreat

Beach Camping in Delaware In A Nutshell

Delaware’s beach campgrounds offer a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling activity of Cape Henlopen State Park to the serene wilderness of Assateague Island. Whether you’re looking for a traditional camping experience with modern amenities or a more primitive and rustic adventure, Beaches in Delaware are a popular vacation spot, so make sure to reserve your campsite in advance of your journey. You can engage in all of the typical beach activities while you’re there, including swimming, playing in the sand, surfing, boating, and fishing. 

Since Delaware offers the added benefit of tax-free shopping throughout the entire state, shopping is also a popular pastime here. Once you’ve enjoyed your time in the sun at the beach, unwind in your tent or RV and have a great time. Whatever your preferences in campsites, beach camping in Delaware is an extraordinary experience for all campsites enthusiasts.