Best Camping in Delaware

Camping in Delaware

By Alex Murphy

Just south of Philly and east of Maryland, Delaware sits on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, providing some great beachfront spots for anyone looking to camp in the Mid-Atlantic.

While the state comprises only three counties, Delaware provides easy access to multiple metro areas, many unique campgrounds, and plenty of historical sites and beaches to see with fishing, bird watching, hiking, and other great outdoor activities.

Here's a look at everything the First State has to offer.

See a map of all camping in Delaware.

Delaware State Parks

There are 17 Delaware State Parks to visit while in the state, with campsites providing something for everyone.

Several Delaware State Parks offer beachfront campsites, including Delaware Seashore State Park. Located in Rehoboth Beach, this park has easy access for swimming in the ocean. Anglers can check out Indian River Inlet within the park for more water and an easy way to drop in a boat or kayak.

Another beach campground just north of Delaware Seashore Stare Park is Cape Henlopen State Park, where Campendium users say they enjoy the trails for biking and quick beach access.

Further inland, but still a short drive to the beach, are popular spots like Trap Pond State Park and Lums Pond State Park. Campendium users say they enjoy these campgrounds thanks to nice shaded sites.

RV Parks in Delaware

When it comes to RV Parks in Delaware, many of the best spots for campers can also be found along the shore.

Delaware Beach Jellystone Park Camp Resort is one of the most popular campgrounds in the state on Campendium. Although not directly on the coast, it's a short drive to Delaware beaches.

G&R Campground has great reviews for both RV and tent sites due to its heavily wooded sites. This campground is a short drive to Dover, the state's capital, where visitors can check out restaurants and shops.

National Parks in Delaware

Delaware was the first state to ratify the constitution and is celebrated at First State National Historical Park, which preserves the history of the state's colonial time period. The First State National Historical Park is located just outside the state's largest city of Wilmington and is a short drive from Philadelphia and New Jersey.

Free Camping in Delaware

When it comes to free camping in Delaware, there aren't many opportunities to overnight without a fee; however, some RV sites may work well for anyone either passing through the state or planning on heading to the beach for vacation.

Two of the spots are casinos, including Harrington Raceway & Casino, which is centrally located, or Delaware Park Casino, which is in the northern part of the state with quick access to I-95.

Another option just off of a highway is Smyrna Rest Area. Similar to the other free spots there are not many amenities, but considering the small size of Delaware, nothing is out of reach from a short drive.

National Forests in Delaware

The National Forest Service does not manage any land in Delaware.