Oceanside Walk-In Campground

For Maryland locals yearning for an unparalleled coastal escape, Oceanside Walk-In Campground at Assateague Island National Seashore in Berlin, MD, offers a truly unique and immersive experience. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to wake up to the sound of crashing waves, feel the ocean breeze, and potentially witness the legendary wild horses roaming nearby. As a walk-in, tent-only campground, it provides a more secluded and authentic camping adventure, allowing you to disconnect from the everyday hustle and connect deeply with nature. Many consider it their "happy place," and it’s easy to see why once you experience the magic of Assateague Island.

Assateague Island is a cherished natural gem on Maryland's Eastern Shore, renowned for its pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and the iconic wild horses that freely wander its shores. Oceanside Walk-In Campground is perfectly positioned to offer the quintessential Assateague experience. It caters specifically to tent campers who are prepared for a short walk from their vehicle to their site, enhancing the wilderness feel. The combination of spacious campsites, clean facilities, and the sheer natural beauty that surrounds you creates an unforgettable camping trip. For Maryland residents, it's a convenient and accessible slice of paradise that promises to refresh and inspire.

Access to the campground is straightforward via the Verrazano Bridge from mainland Maryland. While the physical address is Berlin, MD, the campground is situated on Assateague Island, which is connected by bridge. As a "walk-in" campground, individual tent-only sites are located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. This requires campers to carry their gear a short distance to their campsite, contributing to the secluded and immersive feel of the camping experience. Despite its natural setting, the campground is within a reasonable driving distance of conveniences. Berlin, often voted one of America's coolest small towns, offers a charming downtown with shops and restaurants. Ocean City, a popular beach resort, is also a short drive away, providing a wider range of dining, entertainment, and grocery options. This ideal balance allows campers to feel "away from it all" while still having access to necessary supplies and a touch of civilization when desired. It’s a truly accessible wilderness experience for Marylanders.

• Campsites: 62 dedicated tent-only sites are available for walk-in campers. Each site is spacious and includes basic amenities.

• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a designated area for outdoor dining and meal preparation.

• Fire Rings / Grills: Each site includes a fire ring, often with a grill grate, allowing for campfires (where permitted) and outdoor cooking. Campers are reminded to bring locally purchased firewood.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available within the campground, usually at centralized spigots, ensuring access to fresh water for all campers.

• Showers: Seasonal cold-water showers are available from mid-March through mid-November, offering a refreshing way to rinse off after a day at the beach.

• Toilets: Chemical toilets are available year-round. During the peak season (mid-March through mid-November), flushable toilets are also provided in the bathhouses.

• RV Sanitation: Although Oceanside Walk-In is for tents, a dump station is available within Assateague Island National Seashore for RV sanitation if needed, supporting the broader park facilities.

• Trash/Recycling Collection: Bins for trash and recycling are available year-round, encouraging responsible waste disposal and helping to keep the park clean.

• Food Storage Lockers: Available year-round, these lockers help campers protect their food from wildlife, including the wild horses and other animals.

• Camp Store: While not directly at the walk-in campground, a seasonal camp store operated by Assateague Outfitters is available nearby within the National Seashore, offering essentials like firewood, ice, snacks, and camping gear.

• 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 calling 1-877-444-6777. Walk-in sites are closed from November 16 through March 14.

• Ocean Proximity: The campground is incredibly close to the Atlantic Ocean. Even without a clear view from every site, campers can "hear the ocean," providing a constant, soothing soundtrack and easy access to the beach for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.

• Wild Horses: A definite highlight is the opportunity to see the famous wild horses of Assateague Island. While sightings are not guaranteed, they frequently roam the campground and surrounding areas, offering a truly magical experience. As one review notes, "Waking up to the ocean and wild horses is a dream!!!"

• Spacious Campsites: Reviewers consistently mention that the "Campsites are spacious," providing ample room for tents and gear, and a sense of privacy amidst the natural landscape.

• Clean and Well-Kept Park: Visitors praise the park for being "clean and well kept," reflecting the dedicated efforts of the staff in maintaining the natural beauty and facilities.

• Friendly and Informative Staff: The "Staff is friendly and informative," contributing to a welcoming and helpful environment for campers, ensuring questions are answered and assistance is provided.

• Secluded Tent Camping Experience: As a walk-in, tent-only campground, it offers a more primitive and secluded feel compared to drive-in sites, appealing to those who prefer a deeper connection with nature.

• Beautiful Beach: The "Beautiful beach" is a consistent draw, offering pristine sands and the natural beauty of the undeveloped coastline, perfect for relaxation and recreation.

• Stargazing Opportunities: Away from city lights, the night skies over Assateague Island offer incredible opportunities for stargazing, a truly memorable experience for campers.

• Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing: Beyond the horses, the island is a haven for diverse bird species and other wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for nature observation.

• Address: 7206 National Seashore Ln, Berlin, MD 21811, USA

• Phone: For general park information, you can call the Maryland District at (410) 641-1441.

• Reservations: Campsite reservations are handled through Recreation.gov. You can visit www.recreation.gov or call their toll-free reservation line: 1-877-444-6777 (available 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM EST).

Given the popularity of this campground, especially during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to make reservations as far in advance as possible, as sites, particularly for weekends, tend to fill up quickly.

Firstly, the sheer proximity to the Atlantic Ocean is a massive draw. Being able to hear the waves from your tent, take a short walk to the pristine beach for swimming or relaxation, and experience stunning sunrises over the water is an irreplaceable coastal delight right in Maryland's backyard. This immediate access to the beach differentiates it from many other camping options in the state.

Secondly, the presence of the wild horses offers an iconic and magical element that is unique to Assateague. For Marylanders, having the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, sometimes even from your campsite, is a truly special privilege. It transforms a simple camping trip into an unforgettable wildlife adventure. The walk-in nature of the sites also contributes to a more secluded and authentic wilderness feel, perfect for those seeking a genuine escape from urban life.

Furthermore, the consistent feedback about the "friendly and informative staff" and the "clean and well kept" park ensures a positive and comfortable experience. Maryland locals can trust that they are visiting a professionally managed National Seashore campground where their needs are considered and the natural environment is respected. Combined with the essential amenities like drinking water, clean toilets, and seasonal showers, Oceanside Walk-In Campground provides everything needed for a fulfilling and rejuvenating beach camping trip. For many, it truly becomes their "happy place," a testament to its enduring appeal and perfect fit for those living in Maryland.

Oceanside Walk-In Campground

Berlin, MD 21811, USA