Oceanside Group Campground

camping near berlin md

For Marylanders looking to organize a memorable group outdoor experience, **Oceanside Group Campground** on Assateague Island National Seashore in Berlin, MD, offers a truly distinctive setting. This specialized campground is designed specifically for organized clubs and affiliated groups, providing an incredible opportunity to share the unique magic of Assateague Island with your community. Imagine pitching tents with your friends, family, or fellow club members, with the soothing soundtrack of the Atlantic Ocean and the awe-inspiring sight of wild horses roaming nearby.

Oceanside Group Campground is part of the iconic Assateague Island National Seashore, a place where natural beauty and wild encounters converge. Unlike individual campsites, these group sites are tailored to accommodate larger parties, fostering a communal camping experience while still immersing you in the island's pristine coastal environment. It's an ideal choice for scout troops, church groups, family reunions, or any organized gathering seeking a rustic yet incredibly rewarding outdoor adventure.

While the amenities are basic, focusing on preserving the natural integrity of the seashore, the unparalleled features of this location more than compensate. The opportunity to witness wild horses, enjoy immediate access to the expansive beach, and experience true dark skies for stargazing makes Oceanside Group Campground a premier destination for group camping in Maryland. It provides a unique backdrop for fostering camaraderie, creating shared memories, and educating participants about this remarkable barrier island ecosystem.

Oceanside Group Campground is situated within **Assateague Island National Seashore, at 6633 Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA**. This address places it squarely on the Maryland portion of Assateague Island, a celebrated barrier island known for its untouched beaches and famous wild horse population.

For Maryland residents, accessing Assateague Island is a straightforward journey. From major urban centers such as Baltimore or Washington D.C., the drive typically spans approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. The route involves taking Route 50 East to Route 611 South, which leads directly to the island via the Verrazano Bridge. The drive is scenic, offering glimpses of Maryland's Eastern Shore before you arrive at the distinctive coastal landscape of Assateague.

Upon arrival at Assateague Island National Seashore, groups will need to account for both the park entrance fee (or a valid annual pass) and the per-night camping fees for their designated group site. The group campsites are tent-only and are located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. This requires a short walk to transport gear to your campsite, which contributes to the secluded feel of the group sites. Despite feeling wonderfully remote, the campground is still within a reasonable driving distance of Berlin, MD, and Ocean City, MD, providing convenient access to supplies, emergency services, and additional attractions if needed. This balance of wild seclusion and practical accessibility makes Oceanside Group Campground a perfect choice for Maryland groups planning their next outdoor adventure.

Services Offered:

• **Tent-Only Group Sites:** Dedicated campsites designed specifically for groups, accommodating a minimum of 7 and a maximum of 25 campers per site. Sleeping in vehicles is prohibited in group sites.
• **Multiple Picnic Tables:** Each group site is equipped with multiple picnic tables to facilitate communal dining and gathering for larger parties.
• **Multiple Fire Rings with Grills:** Sites feature multiple designated fire rings, often with grills, for cooking and campfires (always check for current fire restrictions and burn local firewood only).
• **No Hookups:** These are primitive camping sites, meaning no electric, water, or sewer hookups are provided. Groups must be prepared to be self-sufficient. Generators are also prohibited in group sites.
• **Vault Toilets:** Restroom facilities are provided in the form of vault toilets, which are available year-round.
• **Seasonal Cold Water Showers:** Outdoor, unheated showers are available seasonally (typically mid-March through mid-November) for rinsing off sand after beach activities.
• **Potable Drinking Water:** Centralized spigots for potable drinking water are available within the campground (seasonal availability may apply).
• **Food Storage Lockers:** Provided at sites to ensure food is securely stored away from the curious wild horses.
• **Trash/Recycling Collection:** Available year-round for proper waste disposal.
• **Dump Station:** A year-round dump station is available for campers who bring RVs, even if staying at a tent-only group site.

Features / Highlights:

• **Exclusive Group Setting:** Specifically designed for organized groups, fostering a collective outdoor experience away from individual campers.
• **Iconic Wild Horses:** The most celebrated feature is the opportunity to observe Assateague's famous wild horses as they roam freely throughout the island, including the campground areas. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never feed them.
• **Direct Ocean Access:** Group campsites are a short walk over the dunes to the expansive Atlantic Ocean beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, surf fishing, and beachcombing.
• **Immersive Coastal Environment:** Experience the unique ecosystem of a barrier island, with opportunities to witness diverse wildlife, from various bird species to sika deer, in their natural habitat.
• **Stunning Stargazing:** With minimal light pollution, Assateague Island offers truly spectacular night skies, ideal for group stargazing sessions.
• **Miles of Recreational Trails:** Explore the island's natural beauty on paved and unpaved trails suitable for hiking and biking, allowing your group to discover different habitats.
• **Peaceful & Secluded Ambiance:** Despite accommodating groups, the national seashore environment provides a tranquil setting, allowing your group to truly disconnect and bond in nature.
• **Educational Opportunities:** The National Seashore offers ranger-led programs and a visitor center that can enhance your group's understanding of the island's ecology and history.

As a campground managed by the National Park Service (NPS) within Assateague Island National Seashore, Oceanside Group Campground does not typically offer commercial "promotions" or special discounts in the traditional sense. Its pricing and availability are governed by NPS regulations.

However, the "promotion" for Maryland groups lies in the exceptional value and unique experience offered for a structured fee.

• **Camping Fee:** Group campsites are priced at $80 per night per site.
• **Park Entrance Fee:** An additional entrance fee for Assateague Island National Seashore is required for each vehicle entering the park. This fee is typically $25 per vehicle and is valid for seven days, or groups may use an America the Beautiful Pass if applicable to members.
• **Reservations:** Reservations are mandatory for Oceanside Group Campground and can be made up to six months in advance via **Recreation.gov**. Due to high demand, especially during peak season (March 15 through November 15) and on weekends, it is highly advisable to book your group site precisely when the reservation window opens.
• **Seasonal Availability:** Group sites are available year-round for reservations, except from November 16 through March 14, when they are typically closed.
• **Accessibility Discounts:** Groups with members holding a Golden Age, Interagency Senior, Golden Access, or Interagency Access passport may be eligible for a 50% discount on the camping fee.

For Maryland-based organizations and large families, the ability to reserve a dedicated group site at such a unique and popular national park destination is a significant advantage. Planning ahead is the key to securing your spot at this sought-after coastal retreat.

Contact Information:

Address: 6633 Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA (This address refers to the general area of Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland, where the group campgrounds are located).

Phone: While the specific phone for the group campground isn't isolated, general inquiries for Assateague Island National Seashore can be made to (410) 641-3030. Reservations are best made through Recreation.gov or by calling their toll-free reservation line: 1-877-444-6777 (10:00 AM - 10:00 PM EST).

Mobile Phone: +1 410-641-3030 (For Assateague Island National Seashore information).

For Maryland locals, Oceanside Group Campground on Assateague Island National Seashore offers an unparalleled opportunity for a collective outdoor adventure that is both memorable and deeply connected to nature. Its specialized group sites make it perfectly suited for organizations, extended families, or friends seeking to share a unique experience. While the camping is primitive, this aspect enhances the immersion in the wild coastal environment, fostering resilience and camaraderie within the group.

The chance to observe wild horses up close, enjoy the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean just steps away, and create shared memories under a brilliant star-filled sky right here in Maryland is truly special. It's an ideal setting for educational outings, team-building retreats, or simply a fun, large-scale camping trip that will be talked about for years to come. For Marylanders eager to provide their group with an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and beachside serenity, Oceanside Group Campground is the ultimate choice for your next collective adventure.

Oceanside Group Campground

6633 Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA