Oceanside Drive-In Campground

For Maryland locals dreaming of a unique coastal escape, where the lull of ocean waves is your nightly soundtrack and wild ponies roam freely, Oceanside Drive-In Campground on Assateague Island is the quintessential destination. This isn't just a campground; it's an immersive natural experience that connects you directly with the captivating beauty of Maryland's barrier island. Perfect for those who crave a true outdoor adventure with the convenience of being able to drive right up to their site, it promises unforgettable mornings and serene evenings by the Atlantic.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground offers a rare opportunity to camp literally steps from the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike many traditional campgrounds, its primary allure lies in its unparalleled beachfront location and the mesmerizing presence of Assateague's famous wild horses. It caters to campers who seek a genuine connection with nature, prioritizing stunning views and unique wildlife encounters over extensive modern amenities. While the experience is rustic, the chance to wake up to the sunrise over the ocean and observe the wild ponies from your campsite makes it an extraordinary and highly sought-after destination for anyone looking to truly get away from it all and embrace the raw beauty of coastal Maryland. It's a place where the simplicity of camping meets the grandeur of a protected national seashore.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground is located on the Maryland side of Assateague Island National Seashore, specifically within the area managed by the National Park Service. The exact address associated with the campground's entry point is Berlin, MD 21811, USA, which serves as the gateway to this pristine barrier island.

Accessing the campground is straightforward for those driving. From Berlin, MD, visitors will head towards Assateague Island. Please note that an entrance fee to Assateague Island National Seashore is required in addition to camping fees, or an Interagency Pass (America the Beautiful Pass) can be used. There is no through road connecting the Maryland side of Assateague Island to the Virginia side, so all access to the Maryland district is from the Berlin/Ocean City area.

Once on the island, the campground is clearly marked. Campers with RVs, trailers, or tents can drive directly to their assigned sites. Reviewers often note the ease of finding and navigating to individual campsites within the loops. While the sites are designed for drive-in access, visitors should be aware that the ground is sandy, and some sites may have a steeper, sandier climb to the picnic table and fire pit area, especially for those closer to the beach. Despite this, the accessibility to the stunning oceanfront is a major draw. For a quick breakfast or other necessities, driving back to the state park side of Assateague Island, just a short distance away, is an option, where telling the gate attendant you are going to the restaurant can waive the re-entry fee. This allows for convenient access to additional services while maintaining the secluded feel of the National Seashore.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground provides essential services and facilities that support a rustic yet memorable beach camping experience. The emphasis is on core amenities for comfortable outdoor living.

• Drive-In Campsites: Offers sites designed for tents, trailers, and recreational vehicles, allowing you to park directly at your campsite. Sites typically do not have electric, water, or sewer hookups.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (with a grill), perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires. Campers are encouraged to bring locally purchased firewood.
• Restroom Facilities: Vault toilets are available year-round throughout the campground for guest use.
• Cold Water Showers: Seasonal cold water showers are available from mid-March through mid-November for rinsing off sand after a day at the beach. Guests should be aware that these showers are unheated, as noted by some reviewers.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at designated spigots within the campground when temperatures are above freezing, and year-round at the dump stations.
• Trash/Recycling Collection: Bins are provided for convenient disposal of trash and recycling.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available year-round for RV waste disposal.
• Camp Store (Seasonal): A camp store or nearby facilities often offer ice and firewood for sale seasonally.
• On-site Staff: Park staff are seasonally on-site, including rangers and campground hosts, to assist with check-in and answer questions.
• Reservations: Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15 and can be made up to six months in advance via recreation.gov or by phone. Sites are first-come, first-served during the off-season.

The true highlights of Oceanside Drive-In Campground lie in its unique natural setting and the unforgettable experiences it offers.

• Direct Ocean Access: Many sites offer a "front row view of the Atlantic Ocean," allowing campers to hear the waves at night and witness spectacular sunrises directly from their tents or RVs.
• Wild Horses: The iconic wild ponies of Assateague Island frequently roam through the campground loops, providing an unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunity directly from your campsite. This is often cited as a major draw by visitors.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the campground offers magnificent night skies perfect for stargazing.
• Beach Activities: Enjoy direct access to miles of unspoiled beaches for swimming, beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing, and fishing.
• Dune Protection: While some sites may have dunes that partially obscure the ocean view, the dunes provide a natural barrier offering some protection from ocean winds.
• Nature Immersion: The entire experience fosters a deep connection with nature, from the sounds of the ocean to observing local wildlife like deer, ghost crabs, and various bird species.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally allowed in the campground (on a leash), making it possible for the entire family to enjoy the beach camping experience. Specific regulations regarding pets on the beach should be checked.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings at Each Site: Essential for the camping experience, allowing for outdoor meals and evening campfires.

For reservations, information, or any questions regarding Oceanside Drive-In Campground on Assateague Island, you can utilize the following contact channels:

Address: Berlin, MD 21811, USA (This refers to the general area for Assateague Island National Seashore)

Phone: (410) 641-3030 (This number is often associated with the National Park Service on Assateague Island for general inquiries and campground information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 410-641-3030

For the most reliable booking, it is strongly recommended to use the official National Park Service reservation system, which is typically recreation.gov, or call their toll-free reservation line: 1-877-444-6777. Please note that direct phone numbers for individual campsites are rare; the numbers provided usually connect to the park's main office or a central booking system.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground is an absolutely perfect fit for Maryland locals looking for an unparalleled beach camping experience right in their home state. For those living inland or even on other parts of the Eastern Shore, it offers a convenient and accessible way to immerse themselves in a truly wild coastal environment. It’s ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers who prioritize a strong connection with nature and cherish unique wildlife encounters, particularly the famous wild horses.

Unlike typical resort-style campgrounds, Oceanside provides a more rustic and authentic camping adventure, where the main attractions are the natural beauty of the ocean, the sounds of the waves, and the unexpected visits from the ponies. Despite some minor inconveniences like sandy sites or unheated showers, the reviews consistently highlight the magical and memorable nature of staying right on the beach. It's a prime destination for those who want to disconnect from daily life, embrace the simplicity of outdoor living, and create unforgettable memories right here on Maryland’s stunning Assateague Island. For Marylanders, it's a convenient and iconic destination that truly captures the spirit of coastal adventure.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground

Berlin, MD 21811, USA