Island Resort Campground

For Maryland residents and visitors seeking a tranquil retreat on the Eastern Shore, Island Resort Campground offers a refreshing departure from the high-density commercial resorts often found near the coast. Established as a family-owned facility in 2005, this campground has built a steadfast reputation for its peaceful atmosphere, enormous sites, and genuine hospitality. Tucked away in Newark, Maryland, it provides a scenic sanctuary where the air is filled with the scent of salt and pine, yet the excitement of the Atlantic beaches remains just a short drive away. It is an ideal destination for those who appreciate the quiet beauty of a sunrise over a mirror-still lake before heading out for a day of coastal adventure.

The resort is designed around two stunning, deep freshwater lakes that serve as the heart of the property. Many of the sites and rental units are situated directly along the shoreline, offering campers the unique luxury of fishing right from their own "front yard." Unlike many other regional campgrounds that have transitioned to corporate ownership, Island Resort remains independent, allowing for a more personal touch and a relaxed policy environment—such as a more welcoming approach to families traveling with multiple pets. This "laid-back" vibe, combined with professional onsite management, creates a community where neighbors are respectful and the focus remains on the simple joys of outdoor living.

Location and accessibility are major highlights for those traveling within the Delmarva Peninsula. Island Resort Campground is located at 9537 Croppers Island Rd, Newark, MD 21841. Situated just off US-113 and approximately 6 miles southwest of the junction with US-50, it is remarkably easy to navigate even for those maneuvering the largest "big rigs." For Marylanders coming from the Baltimore or Washington D.C. areas, the journey across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge leads directly into this serene coastal pocket. The campground is perfectly positioned for day trips, being only 10 miles from the world-famous Ocean City boardwalk and just a 15-minute drive from the wild horses and natural dunes of Assateague Island National Seashore.

Accessibility within the resort is thoughtfully managed to ensure that all guests can enjoy the facilities. The campground features a wheelchair-accessible entrance and a well-maintained parking lot designed for easy transit. The bathhouses and main restrooms are fully accessible, and the grounds themselves are notably level, featuring cement patios at many sites which provide a stable and clean foundation for campers and outdoor furniture. With plenty of space for maneuvering and wide gravel roads, the resort ensures that guests of all mobility levels can enjoy the waterfront views and common areas with ease.

The services offered at Island Resort Campground cater to the modern RVer and cabin guest who seeks quality without unnecessary frills. The family-run office is known for going "over and above," whether it is providing quick assistance with a mechanical issue or offering local recommendations at the onsite camp store. Every service is provided with the goal of making your stay as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on the spectacular sunsets and the calls of the local wildlife.

• Full-hookup RV sites (water, sewer, and electric) featuring 20, 30, and 50-amp service to accommodate any size vehicle.
• Extraordinarily large sites, typically measuring 49’ x 85’, providing ample room for slides, awnings, and additional vehicles.
• Deluxe cabin rentals that overlook the lake, offering the comforts of home including air conditioning, heat, and full baths.
• A well-stocked onsite general store where guests can find ice cream, essentials, and last-minute camping supplies.
• Professional onsite maintenance and roadside assistance services for unexpected issues like flat tires.
• Propane refill services and firewood availability for those classic evening campfires.
• Convenient laundry facilities and clean, modern shower houses for all guests.
• Secure boat launch site for those looking to explore the local bay and waterways.

Features and highlights at the resort emphasize recreation and nature. The two stocked lakes are the primary attraction, supporting a robust catch-and-release fishing program that is a favorite for both adults and children. For those who want to get out on the water, the resort offers several ways to explore the freshwater depths or head out into the nearby salt air of the bay. The recreational amenities are designed to be high-quality and well-maintained, providing entertainment for the whole family within the safety of the park.

• A large, heated swimming pool featuring a unique deck that jets out over the lake, perfect for sunbathing with a view.
• Private swimming beach area along the lake’s edge where kids can play in the sand.
• Canoe and kayak rentals for exploring the lakes and the hidden trails of the surrounding marshes.
• A spacious lakeside gazebo that provides the ultimate vantage point for experiencing breathtaking sunsets.
• Catch-and-release fishing opportunities right from waterfront campsites or designated piers.
• A safe and fun playground area for children, conveniently located near the main activity hubs.
• Picnic areas and open green spaces perfect for outdoor group meals and community gatherings.
• Pet-friendly policies that allow dogs, including a more generous multi-pet limit than many nearby competitors.

To plan your visit to Island Resort Campground, it is recommended to call ahead for current rates and availability, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. The resort offers various pricing tiers based on whether you prefer a waterfront site or an interior lot, and they frequently offer weekly rates where the seventh night is free. Payment is made easy with the acceptance of credit cards, debit cards, and standard camping fees.

Address: 9537 Croppers Island Rd, Newark, MD 21841, USA

Phone: (410) 641-9838

What is worth choosing about Island Resort Campground is the sheer value and peace it offers compared to the crowded, high-priced alternatives in the Ocean City area. Many visitors find that while they come for the proximity to the beach, they stay for the quiet of the campground itself. The "bare bones" but high-quality nature of the park means you aren't paying for extra fluff you won't use; instead, you get enormous, level sites, a beautiful pool, and a staff that treats you like part of the family. For owners of large motorhomes and "big rigs," the cement patios and wide-open maneuvering space make this one of the most stress-free options on the Eastern Shore.

Furthermore, the pet-friendly nature of the resort makes it a top choice for those who don't want to leave their furry family members behind. In an area where dog limits are becoming stricter, the freedom to have your pets enjoy the outdoor space with you is a significant draw. Whether you are fishing from your campsite at dawn, kayaking through the lake's trails in the afternoon, or sitting under the gazebo as the sky turns orange and pink at dusk, Island Resort Campground provides the quintessential Maryland outdoor experience. It is a place where you can truly "recharge" while still having the best of the Delmarva coast right at your fingertips.