Little Levels Campground

For Maryland residents seeking a true escape from the bustling corridors of Baltimore or the suburbs of D.C., Little Levels Campground represents the pinnacle of coastal wilderness. Located within the Maryland district of the Assateague Island National Seashore, this is not your typical drive-in camping destination. Instead, Little Levels is a backcountry sanctuary designed for those who want to leave the motorized world behind and immerse themselves in the raw, shifting landscape of a barrier island. It is a place where the Atlantic Ocean provides a constant soundtrack and the famous wild horses of Assateague roam freely through the dunes.

Little Levels is one of the few designated oceanside backcountry sites on the island, offering a unique opportunity to camp among the inner dunes. This environment is both beautiful and demanding, providing a stark contrast to the developed resort towns nearby. For local Marylanders, it is a chance to experience the Eastern Shore as it existed centuries ago. Because the site is secluded and requires a significant trek to reach, it remains one of the quietest spots on the island, particularly after dusk when the day-use visitors and over-sand vehicles have departed for the mainland.

Accessibility at Little Levels is defined by its remote nature. To reach the campground, visitors must embark on a journey that begins at the Maryland District Ranger Station. The site is accessible only by hiking or paddling; there is absolutely no motorized vehicle access permitted for campers or their equipment. The hike typically follows the shoreline or the interior trails, and campers should be prepared for soft sand travel, which can be physically taxing. For those arriving by water, the paddle across the bay offers a different but equally rewarding perspective of the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Because the campground is located within a National Seashore, it is managed by the National Park Service (NPS). All visitors must check in at the Ranger Station on Bayberry Drive to obtain a backcountry permit before heading out. This is a critical step for locals to remember, as permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of departure. Due to the unpredictable nature of coastal weather, advance reservations are not accepted, making a trip to Little Levels a perfect choice for the spontaneous adventurer who keeps a close eye on the local forecast.

• Backcountry permit registration and orientation at the Maryland District Ranger Station.
• Primitive oceanside camping areas designated by boundary posts.
• A chemical or portable toilet provided onsite for waste management.
• A central picnic table available for shared use among campers.
• Access to miles of undeveloped Atlantic coastline for swimming and beachcombing.
• Ranger-led programs and information available at the main visitor centers.
• Designated parking for backpackers at the North Beach parking lot.
• Emergency 9-1-1 phone located at the Ranger Station for backcountry safety.

The highlights of Little Levels revolve around its "off-the-grid" appeal. Unlike the drive-in loops closer to the bridge, Little Levels offers a sense of solitude that is hard to find elsewhere in Maryland. One of the major features is the proximity to the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone; while vehicles cannot camp there, hikers can enjoy the vast expanse of the beach that feels entirely private once the sun goes down. The area is also a prime spot for observing the island's wildlife, including the feral ponies, deer, and various species of migratory birds that frequent the salt marshes and dunes.

• Stunning sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean directly from your tent.
• Opportunity for world-class stargazing far from the light pollution of Ocean City.
• Strategic location behind dunes that provide a natural buffer against coastal winds.
• A strictly car-free environment, ensuring a peaceful and quiet atmosphere.
• Ideal conditions for photography, shell collecting, and nature study.
• A challenging but rewarding trek that serves as a rite of passage for local hikers.
• Proximity to the Maryland/Virginia state line for long-distance beach exploration.

When preparing for a stay at Little Levels, it is essential to understand the "primitive" designation. There is no potable water available at the site, so campers must carry in all the water they need—typically recommended at one gallon per person per day. Additionally, the salt marsh mosquitoes are legendary; bringing high-quality insect repellent is a necessity, especially during the warmer months. As noted by experienced local campers, sand stakes are a wise investment to ensure your tent stays secure in the soft dune sand and ocean breezes.

Little Levels Campground
Address: Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA (Permits obtained at the Maryland District Ranger Station)
Phone: (410) 641-1441 (National Park Service Information)

What is worth choosing about Little Levels is the sheer authenticity of the experience. For many Marylanders, camping is a way to reconnect with nature, and Little Levels removes all the distractions of modern life. It is worth choosing if you value silence, physical challenge, and the beauty of an undisturbed horizon. While it requires more planning and effort than a standard campground, the reward is a "magical" stay where you might wake up to a wild horse grazing near your tent or have an entire stretch of the Atlantic coast to yourself for a morning walk. It is a premier destination for those who believe that the best views are the ones you have to work to see.

Whether you are visiting in the cool, bug-free days of late March or the surprisingly warm weeks of October, Little Levels offers a seasonal variety that keeps locals coming back year after year. It provides a unique balance of adventure and tranquility that makes it a standout gem in the Maryland park system. If you are ready to pack your gear, grab your sand stakes, and trek into the wild, Little Levels is waiting to provide an unforgettable coastal experience.