Oceanside Drive-In Campground

Oceanside Drive-In Campground offers one of the most distinctive outdoor experiences in the Mid-Atlantic region. Situated within the Maryland district of the Assateague Island National Seashore near Berlin, Maryland, this campground provides a rare opportunity to sleep just behind the coastal dunes of a protected barrier island. Known globally for its population of free-roaming wild horses and miles of pristine, undeveloped Atlantic coastline, the campground serves as a premier destination for Maryland residents and visitors seeking a true escape into nature.

The environment here is defined by the rhythmic sound of crashing waves and the salty breeze of the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike many commercial campgrounds, Oceanside Drive-In maintains a rugged, natural character that prioritizes the preservation of the local ecosystem. Guests often find themselves sharing their morning coffee with the island's famous "ponies" as they graze through the scrub pines and beach grasses. This location is not just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it is a gateway to exploring salt marshes, coastal forests, and the expansive sandy beaches that make the Maryland shore so iconic.

Oceanside Drive-In Campground is located in Berlin, MD 21811, within the Assateague Island National Seashore. For local travelers, the site is easily accessible via Route 611 (Stephen Decatur Highway), which leads directly across the Verrazano Bridge onto the island. Once you cross the bridge, the National Seashore entrance is the first right-hand turn, leading you toward the Ranger Station for check-in.

The campground is strategically positioned to offer maximum accessibility to the beach. Most campsites are just a short walk over the dunes via wooden boardwalks. The "drive-in" designation refers to the convenience of being able to park your vehicle directly at your designated campsite, making it an excellent choice for those with heavy gear or RVs. While the island feels remote, it remains close to the amenities of Berlin and the high-energy entertainment of Ocean City, which is only about 8 miles to the north. Accessibility features are a priority here, with wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking lots available to ensure all visitors can enjoy the coastal scenery.

The services at Oceanside Drive-In Campground are designed to facilitate a "back-to-basics" connection with the environment while providing necessary conveniences for a multi-day stay. The onsite services focus on maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the park while supporting diverse camping styles, from traditional tents to large motorhomes.

• RV and Tent Camping: Accommodates tents, trailers, and recreational vehicles up to 45-50 feet.
• On-site Ranger Station: Professional staff are available seasonally to assist with check-ins, safety information, and educational programs.
• Waste Management: On-site trash and recycling collection are provided year-round to protect the local wildlife.
• RV Sanitation: A dedicated dump station is available for guests to manage their self-contained units.
• Accessibility Services: Beach wheelchairs with balloon tires are often available for loan at the Ranger Station.
• Safety Monitoring: Regular patrols by National Park Rangers ensure the safety of both visitors and the protected wild horse population.
• Payment Convenience: The facility accepts credit cards, debit cards, and standard camping fees through the federal reservation system.

Life at the Oceanside Drive-In is centered around the unique geographic features of a barrier island. The highlights of a stay here include both the physical amenities provided at each site and the natural activities available just steps away.

• Wild Horse Viewing: The primary highlight for many is the frequent presence of the Assateague wild horses roaming throughout the loops.
• Direct Beach Access: Boardwalks lead from the campground directly to the Atlantic Ocean for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Hiking and Nature Trails: Access to several miles of interpretive trails, including the Life of the Forest and Life of the Marsh loops.
• Cycling Lanes: Paved paths and designated lanes allow for safe and scenic biking across the Maryland district.
• Essential Amenities: Each site is equipped with a sturdy picnic table and a heavy-duty fire ring for cooking and warmth.
• Sanitation Facilities: The campground features public restrooms, vault toilets, and seasonal cold-water showers (typically available mid-March through mid-November).
• Potable Water: Running water spigots are located throughout the campground for drinking and basic cleaning.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: The area features gentle hiking trails and educational opportunities perfect for children and families.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Dogs are allowed within the National Seashore campgrounds, provided they remain on a leash at all times.

To ensure a successful trip to the shore, visitors should keep the following contact and location details handy. It is highly recommended to confirm site availability and current weather conditions before departing.

• Address: 6633 Bayberry Drive, Berlin, MD 21811, USA (Ranger Station / Campground Office)
• Phone: (410) 641-3030
• Alternative Contact: (410) 641-1441 (Maryland District Business Offices)
• Reservation Line: 1-877-444-6777 (Recreation.gov)

Oceanside Drive-In Campground is worth choosing because it offers an authentic coastal experience that cannot be replicated in a standard inland park. For residents of Maryland, it provides a "staycation" that feels worlds away. The primary reason many choose this specific campground is the proximity to the ocean. Sleeping to the sound of the surf and being able to walk to the beach for a sunrise over the Atlantic is a major draw for photographers, surfers, and families alike.

Furthermore, the "drive-in" aspect provides a level of comfort that balances the wild environment. While there are no electric or water hookups at the individual sites, having your vehicle immediately adjacent to your tent or trailer allows for easier organization and food storage. This is particularly important on Assateague, where the wild horses are known to be "Houdinis" when it comes to opening coolers. Being able to quickly lock supplies in your car is a significant advantage over the walk-in sites found elsewhere on the island.

For those who enjoy wildlife, the campground is a living classroom. Beyond the horses, the area is a haven for birdwatchers, with sightings of snowy egrets, great blue herons, and various migratory species common throughout the year. Whether you are there for the thrill of hiking the 10-mile Assateague Island Trail or simply to enjoy a sunset picnic by the fire, Oceanside Drive-In provides a unique, factual, and breathtaking window into the natural beauty of the Maryland coast.