Bayside Drive-in Campground

For Maryland residents seeking an authentic connection with the coastal wilderness, Bayside Drive-in Campground offers a truly unique experience. Located within the Maryland district of the Assateague Island National Seashore, this campground serves as a gateway to one of the most famous barrier islands on the East Coast. Unlike more commercialized camping destinations, Bayside Drive-in emphasizes the raw beauty of the Atlantic coastline, providing a serene environment where the sounds of the marshes and the sight of wild horses define the stay. It is an ideal spot for local families and nature enthusiasts who want to swap the city lights of Baltimore or the bustle of Ocean City for starlit skies and the gentle rhythm of the bay tides.

The campground is specifically designed for "drive-in" access, meaning guests can park their vehicles directly at their designated sites. This makes it a practical choice for those who enjoy the convenience of having their gear close at hand while still enjoying a rustic, off-the-grid atmosphere. Because the campground is managed by the National Park Service, it adheres to high standards of conservation, ensuring that the local flora and fauna—including the iconic Assateague wild ponies—remain protected. Visitors often find that the slower pace of life here provides a much-needed mental reset, offering opportunities for reflection, photography, and world-class birdwatching right from the comfort of their campsite.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for Maryland campers. Situated on Bayside Drive in Berlin, MD 21811, the campground is part of the Assateague Island National Seashore. For those traveling from the Western Shore, the journey across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge leads directly into the quiet, salt-aired beauty of the Eastern Shore. The campground is thoughtfully laid out with multiple loops, including specific generator-free zones for those who prioritize absolute quiet. To ensure that the park remains inclusive for all Marylanders, the facility offers a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a wheelchair-accessible parking lot. Many of the nearby nature trails, such as the Life of the Marsh and Life of the Forest trails, are also designed to be accessible, allowing everyone to witness the diverse ecosystems of the island.

The campground is positioned on the bay side of the island, which often provides a more tranquil experience compared to the windier oceanfront sites. This location offers spectacular sunset views over the water and easier access to kayaking and crabbing in the calmer bay waters. While the site feels secluded, it is only a short drive back to the mainland town of Berlin or the various attractions of Ocean City, providing a perfect balance between a wilderness retreat and regional convenience.

• RV camping sites suitable for trailers and motorhomes up to 45 feet in length (no hookups).
• Dedicated tent sites with level ground, ideal for traditional camping experiences.
• On-site parking at each campsite for easy loading and unloading of equipment.
• Running water and potable water stations located conveniently throughout the loops.
• Public restroom facilities including vault toilets available year-round for guest use.
• Public shower facilities with seasonal cold water showers to rinse off sand and salt.
• Seasonal camp store access for essential supplies, including locally sourced firewood and ice.
• Waste management services including a dump station for RV travelers.

The features and highlights of Bayside Drive-in Campground are deeply rooted in the natural world. The most famous feature is undoubtedly the free-roaming wild horses that frequently wander through the campground loops. These descendants of survivors of shipwrecks or colonial settlers provide a glimpse into a wilder era of Maryland's history. Beyond the ponies, the campground is a premier destination for those who enjoy active outdoor pursuits. From the site, campers can embark on kid-friendly hikes that explore the barrier island's unique transition from maritime forest to salt marsh.

• Unrivaled wildlife viewing, including wild horses, deer, and migratory birds like monarch butterflies in the fall.
• Private and spacious campsites, especially in Loop A, which offer significant distance between neighbors.
• Direct access to hiking trails that are perfect for both educational family walks and serious nature photography.
• Picnic-ready amenities including sturdy picnic tables and barbecue grills at every site.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow leashed dogs to join the family on their camping adventure.
• Exceptional stargazing opportunities due to the lack of light pollution on the National Seashore.
• Generator-free zones (Loop B) for campers who prefer the natural sounds of the wind and water.
• Close proximity to the bay, making it easy to launch a kayak or paddleboard for a day on the water.

Planning a trip to Bayside Drive-in Campground requires some coordination, especially during the peak season when sites are in high demand. To contact the park or make inquiries about specific site dimensions and regulations, you can use the following information. Reservations are typically managed through the federal recreation system, but the local ranger station is an excellent resource for current island conditions.

• Physical Address: Assateague Island National Seashore, Bayside Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA
• Phone Number: (410) 641-3030
• Mobile Phone: +1 410-641-3030

For many Maryland locals, Bayside Drive-in Campground is worth choosing because it offers a "true" camping experience that focuses on the environment rather than artificial amenities. While there are no electric or water hookups at the individual sites, this limitation is exactly what preserves the island's integrity and attracts a community of respectful, nature-loving campers. Choosing Bayside means choosing a front-row seat to one of the most dynamic landscapes in the Mid-Atlantic. The large, level sites provide a sense of privacy that is often missing from crowded private RV parks, allowing you to feel like you have your own small corner of the island.

Furthermore, the campground is a fantastic value for families. With a single camping fee and the entrance fee, guests gain access to miles of protected beaches, hiking trails, and educational ranger programs. The ability to watch a sunset over the bay, roast marshmallows on a provided grill, and wake up to the sound of ponies grazing nearby creates memories that far outweigh the lack of a traditional "luxury" resort. Whether you are a seasoned backpacker looking for a more accessible "base camp" or a family introducing your children to the wonders of the Chesapeake region, Bayside Drive-in Campground provides a beautiful, accessible, and authentically Maryland experience that keeps visitors coming back year after year.