Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground

Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground is a premier outdoor destination for travelers seeking an authentic coastal experience in the First State. Situated on a thin ribbon of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the inland bays, this campground offers a unique environment where the sound of the surf and the sight of the iconic Indian River Inlet Bridge define the stay. For local Delawareans and regional visitors, the North Campground represents a modern, well-planned facility that caters specifically to those who value proximity to the water, high-quality amenities, and a vibrant community of fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Originally enhanced as part of a significant multi-million dollar park improvement project, the North Campground has quickly become a favorite for its spacious layouts and ease of access. Unlike many traditional wooded campgrounds, the North Inlet side features an open, breezy landscape that provides unobstructed views of the sunset over the bay and the cobalt-blue lights of the bridge at night. It is a place designed for active families, avid anglers, and surfers who want to roll out of their bunks and be on the water in minutes. The atmosphere is professional yet relaxed, maintained by a dedicated park staff that ensures the grounds remain clean and safe for all visitors.

Location and Accessibility are the hallmarks of Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground. Located at 39345 Inlet Rd in Bethany Beach, Delaware, the site is positioned directly at the foot of the Charles W. Cullen Memorial Bridge. This strategic location provides campers with immediate access to both the calm waters of the Indian River Bay and the powerful swells of the Atlantic Ocean. For those traveling from Northern Delaware or nearby Maryland, the campground is easily reachable via Route 1, which serves as the primary coastal artery. The facility is designed with inclusivity in mind, featuring wheelchair-accessible entrances, paved and level camping pads, and ADA-compliant restrooms and showers, ensuring that the beauty of the Delaware shore is accessible to everyone.

The campground is part of a larger network of park amenities, connected to the South Campground and the main swimming beaches via a protected walking and biking path that traverses the bridge. This promenade allows guests to safely explore both sides of the inlet without needing to move their vehicles. Additionally, the park is just a short drive from the tax-free shopping outlets in Rehoboth Beach and the quiet, family-oriented boardwalk of Bethany Beach, making it a perfect hub for a comprehensive Delaware beach vacation.

Services Offered at Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground are extensive, providing all the modern conveniences required for a comfortable stay. The park transitions seamlessly from a rugged outdoor retreat to a service-oriented facility. Key offerings include:

• Full-hookup RV sites featuring 30 and 50-amp electric, water, and sewer connections for maximum convenience.
• Dedicated tent sites and primitive camping areas for those seeking a more traditional experience.
• On-site laundry facilities equipped with coin-operated washers and dryers to support long-term stays.
• A fully accessible, heated modern bathhouse with hot showers and changing areas.
• Convenient payment options, including the acceptance of major credit cards and debit cards for camping fees.
• Seasonal camp store services located nearby on the south side for ice, firewood, and essential camping supplies.
• Bait and tackle services at the adjacent Indian River Marina for fishing enthusiasts.

Features and Highlights of the North Campground make it stand out as a top-tier destination in Sussex County. The park is engineered to enhance the natural beauty of its surroundings while providing recreational outlets for all ages. Notable highlights include:

• A short, 150-yard walk to a premier surfing and swimming beach, often cited as one of the best surf spots on the East Coast.
• Immediate proximity to the Indian River Marina, where guests can book charter boats or enjoy waterfront dining at Hammerheads Dockside.
• A modern, fishing-themed playground that is a hit with children, complete with slides, swings, and a mini climbing wall.
• The scenic gazebo and waterfront promenade, perfect for capturing breathtaking sunsets over the Indian River Bay.
• Safe, paved roads and level sites that make maneuvering even the largest 45-foot RVs a stress-free process.
• Access to six different hiking and biking trails, including the nearby Burton Island Nature Preserve.
• Dog-friendly policies that allow leashed pets to join the family, with specific beach access points available seasonally.
• Unique "morning wake-up calls" provided by the nearby U.S. Coast Guard station, adding a touch of maritime tradition to your stay.

For those interested in booking a site or learning more about seasonal availability and fees, the contact information for the park is as follows:

• Address: 39345 Inlet Rd, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, USA
• Phone: (202) 341-1326
• Reservations: Handled through the Delaware State Parks online portal or by calling 1-877-98-PARKS.

What is worth choosing about Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground? For many regulars, it is the superior layout and the convenience of the North side over the South side. The North Campground is often described as having larger sites and a much easier walk to the beach, as guests can walk under the bridge to avoid traffic. It is worth choosing for the photographer and the romantic; the views of the Indian River Inlet Bridge at night, illuminated in cobalt blue, create an atmosphere that you simply cannot find at any other campground in the region. It is a choice for those who want a "bell and whistle" free environment that still provides every modern necessity.

Furthermore, the park is a paradise for the self-sufficient camper. While it lacks the high-density entertainment of commercial RV parks, it offers the raw beauty of the Atlantic coast. It is worth choosing for the angler who wants to be on the jetty at dawn, or the family that wants to spend their days exploring tide pools and their nights around a charcoal grill. The absence of shade trees is compensated for by the constant, refreshing ocean breeze that keeps the summer heat at bay. When you choose the North Campground, you are choosing a front-row seat to the most dynamic landscape in Delaware.

Ultimately, a visit to this campground is a factual immersion into the best of Delaware's coastal resources. From its historic roots at the nearby Life-Saving Station to its modern status as a recreational epicenter, the North Campground provides a safe, professional, and stunningly beautiful sanctuary. Whether you are watching surfers tackle the swells or enjoying a quiet picnic by the inlet, this facility offers a level of seaside access that is truly unparalleled. It remains a cornerstone of the Delaware State Park system and a must-visit for anyone who loves the salt, the sand, and the sky.