Little Levels Campground

For Maryland residents with a deep appreciation for the outdoors, the call of the wild often leads to experiences that go beyond typical developed campgrounds. There's a unique allure to primitive camping, a chance to truly disconnect from the digital world and immerse oneself in the raw, untamed beauty of nature. This style of camping allows you to shed modern conveniences and embrace a more self-reliant adventure, often rewarded with unparalleled tranquility and breathtaking encounters with wildlife.

Primitive camping in Maryland offers diverse landscapes, from the Appalachian foothills to the expansive coastline. These sites provide an opportunity to appreciate the natural environment in its purest form, fostering a sense of peace and rejuvenation that can be hard to find elsewhere. It's about hearing the sounds of the wind through the trees, the distant crash of waves, or the calls of nocturnal animals, creating memories that linger long after the trip is over. It’s an ideal way for locals to explore the less-traveled paths and discover the hidden gems within their own state.

One such remarkable destination, perfect for those seeking an authentic coastal camping experience, is Little Levels Campground. Nestled within the iconic Assateague Island National Park, this primitive campsite offers a serene escape on the oceanside of the barrier island. Unlike more accessible drive-in campgrounds, Little Levels provides a quiet, walk-in setting where the dunes offer natural protection from the coastal winds and the wild horses might be your closest neighbors. For Marylanders eager to experience the famous Assateague Island in a deeply personal and unforgettable way, Little Levels Campground promises an adventure that truly connects you with the wild heart of the Eastern Shore.

Little Levels Campground is located within the Maryland district of Assateague Island National Park, specifically along Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA. This places it on the oceanside of the renowned barrier island, providing direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. Unlike the bayside primitive sites, Little Levels is situated in the open inner-dunes, offering a unique coastal terrain characterized by sandy beaches and marshlands.

As a primitive backcountry campsite, Little Levels requires a bit more effort to reach, contributing to its secluded and peaceful atmosphere. It is classified as a "walk-in" site, meaning that while there are centralized parking areas, campers must carry their gear a short distance to their individual campsites. Reviews indicate that it’s about a "mile and a half walk down the beach from the parking lot" for some access points, though it can also be reached by using the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone, where it's located adjacent to it. For those with a valid OSV permit and appropriate vehicle, getting closer might be an option, but vehicles are strictly prohibited directly at the campsite itself.

Visitors must first check in at the Assateague Island National Park Ranger Station (located at 6633 Bayberry Drive, Berlin, MD 21811) to obtain the necessary backcountry camping permit. It’s crucial to secure this permit in advance, as sites, especially during peak seasons, book up quickly. The remote nature of Little Levels, while enhancing the wilderness experience, means campers must be fully self-sufficient and prepared to carry in all their water and supplies. This intentional accessibility ensures that the campground remains a quiet haven, primarily enjoyed by those who truly seek an immersive natural retreat away from the crowds.

• Backcountry camping permits issued by the National Park Service. Permits are required and generally incur a per-person fee for a 7-day period, in addition to the park entrance fee.
• Portable toilets (vault toilets) are provided within the campsite area.
• Picnic table at each campsite for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire ring and grill available at each campsite for campfires and cooking.
• Designated food storage area (e.g., a place to stow food) at each site to protect against wildlife, particularly the wild horses.
• Non-potable water is NOT available at the backcountry sites; campers must bring their own drinking water (recommended minimum one gallon per person per day).
• Emergency 9-1-1 only phone located at the Ranger Station, not at the campsite.
• Park rangers periodically patrol the area for safety and adherence to regulations.

• Peaceful, quiet, and secluded primitive camping experience within the dunes on the oceanside of Assateague Island.
• Direct access to the vast, undeveloped beaches of Assateague National Park for walking, shelling, and enjoying the ocean.
• Exposure to the sounds of the ocean and natural coastal environment.
• Opportunities for abundant wildlife viewing, especially the famous wild horses that roam freely, and a variety of coastal birds.
• Campsites are described as "nice flat" and on "pine needles," offering comfortable tent pitching.
• Protection from some coastal winds due to the natural dunes, though strong winds are still possible.
• Ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution.
• Offers a true backcountry experience with no electricity or water hookups at individual sites, encouraging self-reliance.
• Part of the unique barrier island ecosystem of Assateague National Park.
• Relatively easy to obtain permits via the NPS website, ensuring the reservation process is straightforward.
• Provides a designated "place to stow your food," essential for protecting provisions from the wild horses.

As a primitive backcountry campsite managed by the National Park Service within Assateague Island National Park, Little Levels Campground does not offer traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers." Its value proposition lies in providing an accessible, authentic, and relatively affordable wilderness experience in a world-renowned natural area. The "special offer" here is the opportunity to immerse oneself in the unique environment of Assateague Island, complete with its wild horses and stunning coastal landscapes, at a standardized, low cost.

Camping fees for backcountry sites like Little Levels are typically set by the National Park Service and are generally quite modest. For instance, permits are usually around $10 per person for a 7-day period, in addition to the standard park entrance fee (which may be a vehicle pass for a week or covered by an annual pass). This pricing makes it an incredibly cost-effective way for Maryland locals and other visitors to enjoy an extended stay in a prime natural setting, especially when compared to many other lodging options along the coast.

While there are no discounts for booking early or seasonal sales, the most significant "promotion" for campers is the ability to secure a reservation. As noted by visitors and the park service, campsites, particularly during peak seasons (March 15 through November 15, when reservations are required), "book very quickly" and "nearly all reservations for weekends are filled the first day that they become available." Therefore, planning ahead and successfully reserving a spot "well in advance" is the ultimate benefit for those wishing to experience Little Levels. For eligible individuals, such as seniors or those with a permanent disability, the National Park Service does offer specific passes (e.g., the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass or Access Pass) that can reduce or waive the park entrance fee, which could be considered a form of promotional saving.

For reservations and the most up-to-date information regarding Little Levels Campground within Assateague Island National Park, it is essential to utilize the official National Park Service resources. Remember that Little Levels is a primitive backcountry site, and permits are mandatory.

Address: Bayberry Dr, Berlin, MD 21811, USA (located within Assateague Island National Park, Maryland District)

Main Park Information (Assateague Island National Seashore - Maryland District):

Phone: 410-641-1441 (Dial #1 for Maryland District Visitor Information, #3 for Maryland Ranger Station and Campground Office)

Reservations for backcountry camping (and other Assateague campgrounds) are primarily made through the National Park Service's centralized system:

Website: www.recreation.gov

Reservation Line: 1-877-444-6777 (available 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM EST)

Email: assateague_island@nps.gov (for general inquiries, not reservations)

It is strongly advised to check the official National Park Service website for Assateague Island National Seashore before your trip for current regulations, permit requirements, check-in procedures, and any weather-related alerts or advisories, as conditions on a barrier island can change rapidly.

For Maryland locals, Little Levels Campground within Assateague National Park offers a truly unique and deeply rewarding camping experience, perfectly suited to those who seek genuine immersion in nature. It’s not just a campsite; it’s an opportunity to connect with one of Maryland’s most iconic natural treasures in its rawest form. The primitive nature of Little Levels, with its walk-in access and location within the dunes, ensures a level of peace and solitude that is increasingly rare in popular destinations.

Reviews from past campers consistently highlight the tranquility found here: "Peaceful and quiet" and the absence of bugs during cooler months, which is a major bonus for any seasoned Maryland camper. The mention of "dunes block some of the coastal winds" indicates a level of natural protection, even on a windswept island, although preparedness with proper tent stakes is still advised, showing that locals appreciate practical advice for coastal conditions. The accessibility of a portable toilet and the availability of fire rings and picnic tables provide essential comforts without detracting from the rustic charm.

Beyond the practicalities, Little Levels offers an unparalleled natural spectacle. The chance to observe Assateague's famous wild horses roaming freely, often right near your campsite, is a magical experience that truly sets this campground apart. The proximity to the ocean means the constant, soothing sound of waves will lull you to sleep, and the lack of light pollution provides stunning opportunities for stargazing. For locals, this means a world-class natural wonder is within reach, offering a convenient yet profound escape from urban life.

Choosing Little Levels is a deliberate decision to embrace self-reliance and appreciate the simple beauty of a protected barrier island. It encourages a mindful approach to camping, where you're acutely aware of your surroundings and the delicate ecosystem. For Marylanders who cherish their state's natural heritage and seek an adventure that promises privacy, incredible wildlife encounters, and the simple joys of primitive beach camping, Little Levels Campground is an ideal and unforgettable destination.