Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground

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For Delaware residents yearning for a genuine coastal camping experience, the Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground in Bethany Beach stands out as a prime destination. This campground offers a unique opportunity to stay right at the heart of the action, nestled between the serene Indian River Bay and the vibrant Atlantic Ocean. It’s a beloved "go-to" spot for many local families, providing direct access to the beach and inlet, making it an ideal base for a wide array of seaside activities.

While some might describe the layout as akin to a "parking lot" due to its open, treeless design, it's precisely this characteristic that ensures easy maneuvering for RVs and quick access to essential hookups. Visitors consistently praise the campground for being "beautiful" and "very well kept," highlighting the dedication to maintenance that ensures a pleasant stay. What truly makes this campground a treasure for Delawareans is its unparalleled location, allowing for an easy walk or bike ride to the beach, and close proximity to the Indian River Inlet. Whether you're planning a lively summer vacation filled with beach activities or a quieter off-season retreat for fishing and relaxation, Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground offers the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty right in your own state.

The Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground is ideally situated at 27101 Coastal Hwy, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, USA. This strategic location places it directly on a barrier island, with the vast Atlantic Ocean to its east and the tranquil Indian River Bay to its west. For Delaware locals, its position along Coastal Highway (Route 1) makes it incredibly easy to access from various points within the state, offering a straightforward drive to your coastal getaway.

One of the campground's strongest accessibility features is its immediate proximity to the beach. Campers can easily walk just a few hundred yards to reach the Atlantic Ocean, allowing for spontaneous beach days. The campground is also within walking distance to the Indian River Inlet, a popular spot for fishing and boating. A separate pedestrian/bike path conveniently traverses the iconic Indian River Inlet Bridge, connecting the South Campground to the North Campground and the Indian River Marina, where fresh fish and dining options await. This prime location also offers quick drives to the popular resort towns of Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach, and Rehoboth Beach, providing access to boardwalks, tax-free shopping, diverse dining, and additional recreational opportunities. Its excellent accessibility and central location to both natural wonders and lively coastal towns make it a top choice for Delaware residents seeking a convenient and diverse vacation experience.

• RV Campsites:

  The South Campground offers 151 full hook-up RV campsites, equipped with electric (20, 30, and 50 amp), water, and sewer services. There are also 86 standard sites without hook-ups for RVs, and rigs up to 45 feet in length are permitted.

• Tent Camping Sites:

  33 dedicated tent-only camping sites are available, accommodating traditional tent campers.

• Bathhouses with Hot Showers:

  Clean and well-maintained bathhouses with flush toilets and hot showers are available throughout the campground.

• Laundry Facilities:

  Coin-operated laundry facilities are provided for guest convenience.

• Dump Station:

  A dump station is available for RVs.

• Camp Store:

  A camp store is on-site (open during warmer months) for basic necessities, snacks, and camping supplies.

• Bait & Tackle Shop:

  For fishing enthusiasts, a bait and tackle shop is conveniently located within the park.

• Drinking Water:

  Potable drinking water is available at campsites (though water at sites may be turned off in winter, with frost-free spigots available).

• Visitor Services:

  A Ranger Station is available for assistance and information.

• Trash Disposal:

  Dumpsters are provided throughout the campground for trash removal.

• Visitor Parking:

  Designated extra parking areas are available for additional vehicles or boat trailers.

• Direct Beach and Inlet Access:

  The most significant highlight is the campground's direct walking access to the Atlantic Ocean beach (approx. 400 yards) and the Indian River Inlet. This allows for immediate enjoyment of swimming, sunbathing, surfing, surf fishing, crabbing, and clamming.

• Well-Maintained Facilities:

  Despite some comments about site density, reviews consistently commend the campground for being "beautiful" and "very well kept," with clean bathhouses and facilities.

• Proximity to Indian River Marina and Dining:

  The campground is within easy walking distance or a short bike ride via the bridge path to the Indian River Marina, which offers boat charter experiences, fresh fish sales, and two on-site restaurants (open late May through mid-October) with scenic views.

• Variety of Site Types:

  With numerous full hook-up RV sites, standard sites, and dedicated tent-only sites, the campground caters to a wide range of camping preferences, ensuring there's an option for almost every type of camper.

• Family-Friendly Amenities:

  The campground features a playground for children, picnic tables at each site, and an amphitheater for programs, making it suitable for families.

• Off-Season Appeal:

  Many campers prefer visiting during the off-season (spring and fall) when the park is less busy, offering a more peaceful experience and ideal conditions for fishing, birdwatching, and enjoying the cooler weather.

• Pet-Friendly:

  Pets are permitted in certain areas of the campground and must be on a 6ft leash at all times. Specific pet-friendly beaches may also be nearby.

• Accessibility Features:

  As a Delaware State Park, efforts are made to ensure accessibility, with features like ADA-compliant pole showers at South Inlet and beach mobility mats to assist with beach access for wheelchairs.

As a Delaware State Park, Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground adheres to state park fee structures rather than offering typical commercial campground promotions. However, there are several ways Delaware residents can access more favorable rates or specific benefits:

• Delaware Resident vs. Non-Resident Rates:

  Delaware residents typically enjoy significantly lower daily camping rates compared to non-residents across all site types (tent, standard, RV, and cottages). For example, a resident RV campsite might cost $57-$75 in core season, compared to higher rates for non-residents. Tent sites can range from $25-$53 for residents depending on the season, illustrating the resident benefit.

• Annual State Park Passes:

  Delaware residents can purchase an Annual Pass for $35, which provides unlimited entry for one vehicle and up to six occupants to state parks during the fee season (March 1 – November 30). Senior residents (62+) can get a pass for $18. While this doesn't reduce camping fees directly, it eliminates daily entrance fees, offering savings for those who plan multiple visits to Delaware State Parks.

• Surf Fishing Permits:

  For avid anglers, resident annual surf fishing vehicle permits are available for $90 (or $80 for seniors), allowing vehicle access to designated surf fishing beaches, including within Delaware Seashore State Park.

• Off-Peak and Non-Peak Season Pricing:

  Camping rates are considerably lower during the non-peak (e.g., Spring and Fall) and off-peak (winter) seasons compared to the core summer season (typically late May to early September). For instance, an RV campsite might be $32-$48 in off-peak season for residents.

• Annual Pass Assistance Program:

  In partnership with the Department of Health and Social Services, Delaware residents receiving assistance through a State Service Center may be eligible to purchase a discounted annual state park pass for $10, promoting accessibility for all.

For the most current rates and specific reservation policies, including information on minimum stays or additional person charges ($2.00 per day for each person over the first four per site), it is always best to consult the official Delaware State Parks website or contact the park office directly.

For reservations, inquiries about campsite availability, park rules, or general information regarding Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: 27101 Coastal Hwy, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, USA

Phone: (302) 227-2800 (Park Office)

For reservations, it is highly recommended to use the Delaware State Parks reservation website, as sites, especially full hook-up RV sites, can book up quickly, particularly during peak season. You can also call the park office for assistance with reservations or specific questions.

For residents across Delaware, the Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly desirable camping destination. Its paramount appeal lies in its unparalleled location, directly on a barrier island, providing immediate and convenient access to both the invigorating Atlantic Ocean and the tranquil Indian River Bay. This unique positioning means that a diverse range of aquatic and beach activities—from swimming, surfing, and sunbathing to fishing, crabbing, and clamming—are literally steps from your RV or tent, offering a true "backyard beach" experience that is hard to match.

The campground's focus on providing full hook-up RV sites, coupled with clean bathhouses and laundry facilities, ensures a comfortable and convenient stay, even for extended periods. While the open "parking lot" layout might not offer much shade, it's a trade-off many locals happily make for the ease of access and the direct connection to the coast. This simplicity also contributes to its relaxed atmosphere, particularly during the shoulder seasons, allowing for a more peaceful retreat that many prefer.

Furthermore, the campground's proximity to popular beach towns like Bethany Beach, Dewey Beach, and Rehoboth Beach provides the best of both worlds: a serene natural setting combined with easy access to boardwalks, tax-free shopping, and a wide array of dining and entertainment options. The benefit of resident rates and state park passes also makes it an affordable and highly valuable option for regular visits. Whether you're a family seeking summer fun, an avid angler looking for prime fishing spots, or simply a Delawarean desiring a comfortable and convenient coastal escape, Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground is not just a place to camp; it's a cherished local tradition and a gateway to the best of Delaware's stunning coastline.

Delaware Seashore State Park South Campground

27101 Coastal Hwy, Bethany Beach, DE 19930, USA