Campsite J40

For Marylanders seeking the ultimate coastal escape, Campsite J40 at Assateague State Park offers a unique opportunity to wake up to the rhythmic sound of Atlantic waves and the sight of wild horses grazing nearby. Located in Berlin, Maryland, this specific campsite is situated within the state's only oceanfront park, providing an authentic "sand-between-your-toes" experience that is cherished by local families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As part of the popular J-loop, this site is highly sought after for its proximity to the beach and its welcoming policy toward four-legged family members, making it a cornerstone of the Maryland summer tradition.

The atmosphere at Campsite J40 is one of rugged, natural beauty combined with the camaraderie of a well-loved public campground. Unlike inland wooded sites, the environment here is characterized by coastal shrubs, rolling dunes, and the vast, open horizon of the ocean. Being located on a barrier island, the site offers a front-row seat to the dynamic forces of the Atlantic, where the landscape is constantly shaped by wind and tide. For residents of Baltimore, Annapolis, or the Eastern Shore, a trip to J40 represents a true homecoming to Maryland’s most pristine maritime wilderness.

Campsite J40 is located at 6708 Ocean Dr, Berlin, MD 00152, within the boundaries of Assateague State Park. Accessibility is a major draw for this location; it is reached via a scenic drive down Route 611 (Stephen Decatur Highway) from the historic town of Berlin. The campground is well-signed and easily navigable for a variety of vehicles. While the island feels remote and wild, it is conveniently located just nine miles south of the bustling attractions of Ocean City, allowing campers to balance their wilderness experience with easy access to local supplies, restaurants, and boardwalk fun.

For those traveling with RVs or trailers, the site features a level asphalt pad that simplifies the setup process. It is important for Maryland locals to note that while the island is accessible by car, the campground area is restricted to registered campers, ensuring a peaceful and secure environment. The drive onto the island over the Verrazano Bridge offers stunning views of the Sinepuxent Bay, immediately setting a tone of relaxation as you leave the mainland behind. Whether you are coming for a quick weekend getaway or an extended summer stay, the accessibility of J40 makes it one of the most practical oceanfront destinations in the state.

• Paved Camping Pad: A level asphalt surface suitable for tents, trailers, or RVs up to approximately 60 feet.
• Picnic and Dining: Each site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a heavy-duty fire ring for outdoor cooking and evening gatherings.
• Modern Bathhouses: Access to clean, updated facilities featuring hot showers, flush toilets, and sinks—a significant luxury for beach camping.
• Pet-Friendly Loop: Located in one of the few designated loops (G, H, I, and J) where vaccinated pets are permitted to stay with their owners.
• Potable Water: Drinking water stations are located conveniently throughout the loops for easy refills.
• Waste Management: On-site trash collection and recycling centers, along with a dump station for RV travelers.
• Ranger Services: A nearby Ranger Station provides firewood, ice, and expert guidance on local wildlife and park safety.

The highlights of a stay at Campsite J40 are undeniably the wild horses and the pristine beach access. The Assateague wild ponies are known to roam freely through the campground, and it is common for guests to see them grazing just feet from their tents or campers. This proximity to wildlife is a hallmark of the Maryland camping experience, provided that visitors follow park rules by keeping all food secured in latchable, hard-sided containers or vehicles to prevent the horses from foraging at the sites.

Another major feature is the ease of beach access. A short walk over the dunes from the J-loop leads directly to the Atlantic beach, where campers can enjoy swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. During the peak season, the park often provides lifeguard services at designated areas, offering peace of mind for families with young children. Additionally, the park features a paved hiker/biker path that runs parallel to the main road, connecting the various camping loops to the Nature Center and the neighboring National Seashore, perfect for a morning ride or a sunset stroll.

• Wild Horse Sightings: Frequent visits from the island's famous feral ponies right at your campsite.
• Oceanfront Proximity: Located just a few dozen yards from the primary dunes and the crashing surf of the Atlantic.
• Stellar Stargazing: Minimal light pollution provides breathtaking views of the Milky Way and night sky.
• Birdwatching Paradise: A key stop on the Atlantic Flyway, offering glimpses of ospreys, herons, and various shorebirds.
• Educational Programs: Access to the park’s Nature Center, which offers interpretive programs on coastal ecology.
• Bay and Ocean Versatility: Easy access to both the high-energy oceanfront and the calmer, kayak-friendly waters of the bay.

For inquiries regarding reservations, which can be made up to a year in advance via the Maryland State Park reservation system, or for seasonal information, campers can use the following contact details.

Address: 6708 Ocean Dr, Berlin, MD 00152, USA

Phone: (410) 641-2918 (Assateague State Park Ranger Station)

Choosing Campsite J40 is worth it for the sheer quality of the facilities compared to other coastal options. While the adjacent National Seashore offers a more primitive experience, the State Park—and the J-loop specifically—is renowned for its exceptionally clean and modern bathhouses with never-ending hot water. This makes "roughing it" on the beach significantly more comfortable for families and long-term campers. The site offers a perfect balance: you get the rugged, wild feel of the barrier island during the day, with the comfort of a warm shower and a level paved pad at night.

Furthermore, J40 is an excellent choice because it belongs to the pet-friendly section of the park. For many Marylanders, a vacation isn't complete without their dogs, and the J-loop provides the necessary space and amenities to accommodate them. When you factor in the incredible natural "amenities"—like the wild ponies, the ocean breeze that keeps mosquitoes at bay, and the convenience of being near the historic charm of Berlin—it becomes clear why this campsite is a local favorite. It represents the very best of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, offering a restorative environment where you can truly disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature.