Planning a family camping trip in Delaware? You're in luck—the First State offers a surprising variety of outdoor experiences, from oceanfront campgrounds to quiet riverside parks. Whether you're looking for a beachside base camp or a wooded retreat, this guide to Delaware campgrounds for families highlights top options both in-state and nearby.
While the focus is on Delaware campgrounds for families, we've also included a few standout destinations in neighboring states that are worth the drive for a weekend adventure. These picks are chosen for their family-friendly reputations, high ratings, and natural beauty—perfect for creating lasting memories with your kids.
★★★★★ 4.7 · 6,827 reviews
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a national reserve spanning the Delaware River, offering expansive natural beauty and outdoor recreation. With an impressive 4.7 rating from over 6,800 reviews, it's a favorite for families seeking hiking, wildlife viewing, and river activities. The recreation area provides a scenic backdrop for camping trips, though specific campground details are not listed here. Its address is Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, United States.
Address: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,343 reviews
Delaware Canal State Park is a park located along the historic Delaware Canal in Pennsylvania, offering a peaceful setting for family outings. With a 4.6 rating from 1,343 reviews, it's known for its scenic towpath, perfect for walking, biking, and picnicking. While not a traditional campground, it's a great spot for a day trip or as a complement to nearby camping. The address is Delaware Canal State Park, 11 Lodi Hill Rd, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972, United States.
Address: Delaware Canal State Park, 11 Lodi Hill Rd, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 1,161 reviews
Delaware Museum of Nature & Science in Wilmington offers an engaging indoor experience for families, especially on rainy days. With a 4.6 rating from over 1,100 reviews, it features exhibits on natural history, science, and wildlife. While not a campground, it's an excellent addition to a family vacation in Delaware. The museum is located at 4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807, United States.
Address: Delaware Museum of Nature & Science, 4840 Kennett Pike, Wilmington, DE 19807, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 3,340 reviews
Ludington State Park and Campgrounds is a state park in Michigan, far from Delaware but included for its outstanding family camping reputation. With a stellar 4.8 rating from 3,340 reviews, it's known for its sandy beaches, dunes, and miles of trails. This destination offers a quintessential camping experience, though it's a long drive for Delaware families. Address: 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, United States.
Address: Ludington State Park and Campgrounds, 8800 M-116, Ludington, MI 49431, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 340 reviews
Delaware Art Museum in Wilmington is an art museum with a 4.7 rating from 340 reviews, offering cultural enrichment for families. While not a campground, it's a worthwhile stop for art-loving families exploring Delaware. The museum is located at 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806, United States.
Address: Delaware Art Museum, 2301 Kentmere Pkwy, Wilmington, DE 19806, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.4 · 520 reviews
Burlingame State Campgrounds is a campground in Rhode Island, providing a classic New England camping experience. With a 4.4 rating from 520 reviews, it offers wooded sites and access to a freshwater lake, ideal for swimming and boating. Though not in Delaware, it's a family-friendly option for those willing to travel. Address: 75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, United States.
Address: Burlingame State Campgrounds, 75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 289 reviews
Tuck In De Wood Campgrounds is a campground located on St Helena Island, South Carolina, offering a Southern coastal camping experience. With a 4.5 rating from 289 reviews, it's a peaceful retreat surrounded by live oaks and marsh views. While far from Delaware, it's a unique destination for families seeking a different vibe. Address: 22 Tuc-In-De-Woods Ln, St Helena Island, SC 29920, United States.
Address: 22 Tuc-In-De-Woods Ln, St Helena Island, SC 29920, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 191 reviews
Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground is a true Delaware gem, located in Bethany Beach. With a 4.6 rating from 191 reviews, it offers easy access to the beach and ocean, making it a top choice for families who love the shore. The campground is situated at 39345 Inlet Rd, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, United States, providing a convenient base for beach days and water sports.
Address: Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground, 39345 Inlet Rd, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, United States
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★★★★★ 4.9 · 91 reviews
Delaware State Police Museum in Dover is a niche museum with a perfect 4.9 rating from 91 reviews. While not a campground, it's an interesting stop for families interested in law enforcement history. The museum is located at 1425 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States, and could be a fun educational break during a camping trip.
Address: Delaware State Police Museum, 1425 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, DE 19901, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.3 · 253 reviews
Lost Lake Campgrounds is a campground in Friant, California, offering a lakeside setting for family camping. With a 4.3 rating from 253 reviews, it's a spot for fishing, swimming, and relaxing by the water. Though geographically distant from Delaware, it's included for families considering cross-country trips. Address: X7JF+PH7 Lost Lake Campgrounds, Friant, CA 93626, United States.
Address: X7JF+PH7 Lost Lake Campgrounds, Friant, CA 93626, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 144 reviews
Bonnet Lake Campgrounds is a campground in Avon Park, Florida, providing a sunny, lakefront camping experience. With a 4.5 rating from 144 reviews, it's a family-friendly spot for water activities and outdoor fun. While not in Delaware, it's a warm-weather alternative for families. Address: Bonnet Lake Campgrounds, 2825 FL-17, Avon Park, FL 33825, United States.
Address: Bonnet Lake Campgrounds, 2825 FL-17, Avon Park, FL 33825, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 576 reviews
Iowa State Fair Campgrounds is a campground in Des Moines, Iowa, offering a unique camping experience near the famous state fairgrounds. With a 4.5 rating from 576 reviews, it's a convenient base for fair visitors. Though not in Delaware, it's an interesting option for families attending events. Address: Iowa State Fair Campgrounds, 3468 Dean Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317, United States.
Address: Iowa State Fair Campgrounds, 3468 Dean Ave, Des Moines, IA 50317, United States
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How We Selected These Places
To compile this list, we evaluated locations based on their category (campgrounds, state parks, and family-oriented destinations), geographic relevance to Delaware, user ratings, and review volume. We prioritized places with strong ratings and substantial feedback from visitors, ensuring a mix of beachfront, lakeside, and forested settings. Only publicly available information from the provided data was used; no locations were personally visited.
Tips
When planning a family camping trip, always check the campground's official website for up-to-date availability, reservation policies, and any seasonal closures. Pack essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and layers for changing weather. If you're camping near the beach, bring gear for sand and water. For state parks, consider arriving early to secure a good site. And don't forget to review the local rules regarding campfires and wildlife safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best Delaware campgrounds for families?
- Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground is a top pick for beach-loving families. Other options include nearby state parks like Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Delaware Canal State Park, which offer scenic outdoor experiences.
- Are there campgrounds in Delaware with beach access?
- Yes, Delaware Seashore State Park North Campground in Bethany Beach offers direct access to the ocean and beach, making it an ideal choice for families who want to combine camping with beach time.
- Can I camp at Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area?
- Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is a national reserve that offers camping opportunities, but specific campground details are not listed here. Check the official National Park Service website for more information.
- What should I consider when choosing a family campground in Delaware?
- Consider factors like proximity to attractions, available amenities, and the type of environment you prefer (beach, forest, lake). Also, check reviews and ratings to gauge family-friendliness.
Conclusion
Delaware offers a variety of camping experiences for families, from the sandy shores of Delaware Seashore State Park to the natural wonders of nearby recreation areas. While some of the top-rated spots are outside the state, they provide excellent options for extended adventures. When you're looking for Delaware campgrounds for families, prioritize locations that match your family's interests and comfort level, and always plan ahead for a smooth trip.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
