Martinak State Park Camping Guide 2025

Martinak State Park doesn’t get the same attention as some of Maryland’s larger parks—but that’s part of its charm. Nestled along the banks of the Choptank River and Watts Creek, it offers a peaceful, low-key place to camp, hike, and paddle without crowds or noise. What makes Martinak special isn’t dramatic mountain peaks or long backcountry trails—it’s the quiet marsh views, wooded campsites, and the feeling that you’ve stumbled across a hidden corner of the Eastern Shore.

We think it’s a great choice if you’re looking for an easy weekend getaway or a family-friendly spot with just enough amenities to feel comfortable, while still being close to nature. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy flat trails, birdwatching, or kayaking through calm waters surrounded by forest and wetlands.

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How to Get There

Martinak State Park is located just outside the small town of Denton, Maryland, on the Eastern Shore. It’s around a 90-minute drive from Baltimore and just over two hours from Washington, D.C., depending on traffic and your route. You won’t need to venture far off the highway, which makes it an easy-to-reach option for a quick trip.

Driving Directions:

• From Baltimore: Take I-97 south to Route 50 East. Then pick up Route 404 East toward Denton. Once you’re in town, follow signs to the park entrance, which is off Deep Shore Road.
• From D.C.: Route 50 East is your main road across the Bay Bridge. Then you’ll connect to Route 404 just like from Baltimore.

Parking:
There’s plenty of parking at the main day-use areas, near the boat ramp, and around the campground loop. Most sites have room for one vehicle, and overflow parking is available if needed. You don’t need a 4WD vehicle—roads inside the park are paved and well-maintained.

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Permits and Fees

Camping here is straightforward. Martinak State Park is operated by the Maryland Park Service, so their standard rates and rules apply. You’ll want to reserve your campsite in advance, especially on weekends between May and October.

Here’s what to expect in terms of fees:

• Campsite Fees: Standard campsites are usually $21–$30 per night, depending on the season and whether the site includes electric hookups.
• Reservation Fee: There’s a non-refundable processing fee (currently around $6) per reservation.
• Day-Use Fee: If you’re just visiting for the day, it’s $3 per person for Maryland residents and $5 for out-of-state visitors on weekends and holidays.

Permits:
No special permits are needed for camping beyond your reservation. However, if you’re planning to use the boat ramp or fish, you’ll need to follow Maryland’s boating and fishing license rules.

Reservations can be made online through the Maryland DNR’s reservation system or by phone. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted, but we’d recommend booking ahead during the warmer months.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping at Martinak is designated—no dispersed or backcountry camping is allowed. The campground is small and well laid out, with easy access to restrooms and a short walk to trails and the water. A few rules to know before you go:

• Campsite Capacity: Each site allows up to six people and two tents. Larger groups should look into reserving multiple sites or contacting the park for group camping options.
• Fires: Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Firewood can be purchased on-site or brought from local vendors—but out-of-state firewood is not allowed due to pest control regulations.
• Quiet Hours: From 10 PM to 7 AM. Noise carries easily in this wooded area, so keep music and conversation low during those times.
• Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash at all times. Some areas of the campground may be pet-free, so check your site details.
• Leave No Trace: Trash bins and recycling containers are located near the bathhouse, but we still suggest packing out anything that doesn’t fit. Don’t leave food out—raccoons and squirrels are frequent visitors.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

The campground at Martinak has around 60 sites, some with electric hookups and others more basic. All sites are relatively flat and shaded, thanks to the mix of hardwoods and pines that line the area.

Which Sites to Consider:

• Sites 21–31: These are popular for a reason. They’re close to the bathhouse and have a bit more privacy between them due to denser tree cover. If you’re camping with kids, these are a solid pick.
• Electric Sites (1–12): Great if you’re using a camper or want to plug in gear. These are closer to the main loop entrance and feel a little more open. Some campers find them less private, but they’re convenient.
• Sites 45–50: These are tucked away toward the back, offering more seclusion and a quieter experience. If you’re visiting in early spring or late fall, this area tends to be less crowded.

Things to Keep in Mind:

• Privacy: While most sites have some natural separation, the campground is compact. For more solitude, aim for the edge sites and avoid those directly across from the restrooms.
• Crowd Levels: Summer weekends fill up fast, and noise levels can rise a bit with families and groups. Weekdays in spring and fall are much quieter and our personal recommendation if you want peace and space.
• Proximity to Trails and Water: Sites near the eastern edge are closest to the Nature Trail and water access. If you plan to kayak or fish, these spots can save you some walking.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

One of the most underrated parts of Martinak State Park is the easy, peaceful trail network that loops through forests, wetlands, and along the water’s edge. You won’t find steep elevation or long-distance backpacking routes here—but for a relaxed nature walk or a kid-friendly outing, it’s a great option.

Nature Trail Loop – This is the main trail in the park. It’s just over 1 mile and circles through wooded areas along Watts Creek, with a few interpretive signs and benches. The terrain is mostly flat, with a mix of gravel, boardwalks, and dirt paths. It’s a great warm-up walk after setting up camp.

Choptank River Boardwalk Trail – Short but scenic, this 0.5-mile boardwalk trail brings you out near the river. It’s wheelchair-accessible and a nice spot to catch sunset views or go birdwatching.

Interior Trails and Park Roads – You can also walk the paved park roads or take short detours down side trails to quiet spots by the creek. Some are unmarked but easy to follow and well-maintained.

We suggest bringing a printed park map (available at the ranger station), since the trails aren’t heavily signed once you’re a bit off the main loop. That said, you won’t be far from camp—these trails are low-risk and close to amenities.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Martinak isn’t a rough-and-tumble wilderness site, but you’ll still want to pack smart to make your stay more comfortable. The terrain includes damp ground, sandy spots, and shady, forested areas—so your gear should be ready for all of it.

Must-Have Camping Gear:

• Tent with rainfly – Even if there’s no rain in the forecast, early morning condensation is common.
• Ground tarp or footprint – To protect your tent floor from moisture and uneven surfaces.
• Sleeping pad and warm bag – Nights can cool off quickly, even in summer.
• Portable camp stove or grill – Campfires are allowed, but it’s easier and cleaner to cook over a small stove.
• Reusable water jugs or containers – You’ll need to haul your own drinking water (more on that below).
• Bug spray and citronella – Ticks and mosquitoes are out in force from spring through early fall.

Recommended Extras:

• Camp chairs – Most sites have picnic tables, but a comfy chair goes a long way for evening relaxation.
• Dry bags or storage bins – Humid air and wet grass can make your stuff damp fast. Keep your food and gear sealed and elevated when possible.
• Headlamp or lantern – The campground gets very dark at night, and trail lighting is minimal.

If you’re planning to fish or paddle, bring your own gear. There’s a small boat launch in the park, but no equipment rentals on-site.

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Water and Food Tips

There are water spigots in the campground, but they’re not always marked clearly, and some are seasonal. We wouldn’t rely on them as your only source. It’s best to bring your own clean drinking water in jugs or containers and have a backup plan in case availability changes.

Water Filtration:
The nearby creek and river aren’t safe for drinking, even if filtered. They’re slow-moving and can carry bacteria, especially after rain. If you do need to filter water in a pinch, use a high-quality system and always boil or treat chemically as a second step.

Food Storage:
While black bears aren’t a concern here, raccoons definitely are. Keep all food in sealed containers or coolers with tight latches. Don’t leave anything out overnight—even small snacks can attract critters. Squirrels, birds, and even ants can be persistent.

Store trash in the park-provided bins and always clean your cooking area before bed. Bringing a small folding table for food prep also helps keep things organized and off the ground.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Spring through early fall is the prime season for camping at Martinak. Each part of the year brings its own perks—and a few things to watch out for.

Spring (April–May):
Cool nights, blooming wildflowers, and fewer bugs make this our favorite time. You’ll want a warm sleeping bag, though. Crowds are light except during holiday weekends.

Summer (June–August):
This is the busiest season. Expect humid weather, evening thunderstorms, and a lot more people—especially on weekends. Mosquitoes and ticks are active, so pack protection. Sites can fill up fast, so booking ahead is essential.

Fall (September–October):
Comfortable temps and changing leaves make fall a great time to visit. Crowds thin out a bit after Labor Day. Evening chill creeps in by October, so pack layers.

Winter (November–March):
The campground may be open on a limited basis, but some amenities are shut down. Trails remain open for walking, but water and restrooms may not be available.

Storms can pop up quickly during summer afternoons. Keep an eye on radar if you’re staying for more than one night, and stake your tent securely in case of wind.

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Safety and Navigation

Martinak is a safe, low-risk place to camp—but it’s still smart to go in with a few precautions in mind.

Getting Around:
Trail intersections aren’t always marked, and it’s easy to get turned around when everything looks the same in the woods. That said, the park is small enough that you won’t ever be more than a 15-minute walk from a road. We recommend grabbing a trail map at check-in and using your phone GPS as a backup. Apps like AllTrails or Gaia work well here.

Cell Service:
Signal is generally decent throughout the park, especially near the campground and water. Some deeper wooded spots may have weaker reception, but you should still be able to make calls or check maps if needed.

Emergency Tips:

• First Aid: Pack a basic first-aid kit. Include tweezers for tick removal and antiseptic wipes.
• Park Staff: Rangers are usually available during the day near the entrance station. If you need help after hours, there’s an emergency contact posted at the main board.
• Heat and Bugs: Hydrate often and wear light layers. Use DEET or picaridin-based repellents to keep bugs off. Long sleeves in the evening can also help prevent bites.

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Leave No Trace Principles

We always recommend following the Leave No Trace principles when camping, especially in a peaceful place like Martinak State Park. Even though this park has designated sites and facilities, it’s still easy for nature to be overwhelmed if everyone cuts corners.

Here’s how you can make the smallest impact while enjoying your trip:

• Pack it in, pack it out: Don’t leave trash behind—not even food scraps or biodegradable items. Bring sealable bags or a trash container, and use the provided dumpsters before leaving.
• Stay on designated paths and campsites: It might be tempting to pitch your tent further into the woods or take a shortcut on a trail, but these little choices can add up to long-term damage. Stick to the provided pads or gravel areas.
• Respect wildlife: Martinak is home to deer, foxes, squirrels, and plenty of birds. Watch them quietly, don’t feed them, and make sure your food is stored securely.
• Keep noise low: This is a tranquil spot. Playing loud music or shouting across sites takes away from the experience for everyone.
• Minimize fire impact: Use the provided fire rings and keep your fires small. Never leave them unattended, and fully extinguish them with water before bed or leaving.

Small actions like these help keep the park clean and enjoyable for the next camper—and for the natural ecosystem that calls it home.

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Nearby Attractions

If you’re staying for more than a night or looking to explore beyond the campsite, there are a few gems nearby that are worth checking out:

• Adkins Arboretum – About 15 minutes away in Ridgely, this 400-acre native plant preserve has beautiful walking trails and seasonal events.
• Downtown Denton – Just a couple of miles from the park, Denton has a historic small-town vibe with coffee shops, antique stores, and the Museum of Rural Life.
• Tuckahoe State Park – A larger park about 20 minutes away with longer trails, lake paddling, and more wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Choptank River Fishing Piers – If you like fishing, head toward the Route 404 bridge area for shore fishing with wide river views.

Martinak feels tucked away but still gives you access to low-key day trips without much driving.

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Suggested Itineraries

Depending on how much time you have, there are a few ways to make the most of your stay at Martinak.

Quick 1-Night Trip

If you’re coming for just a night:

• What to Pack: A light tent setup, camp stove, sleeping bag, water jugs, simple meals, and bug spray.
• Where to Camp: Pick one of the main drive-in campsites near the loop for convenience. You’ll be close to the restroom and water spigots.
• What to Do: Set up camp in the afternoon, go for a short hike on the Nature Trail, and enjoy dinner by the fire. In the morning, take a stroll to the river boardwalk and sip your coffee with a view.

Relaxed 2–3 Night Adventure

For a longer, more immersive stay:

• What to Pack: Everything above, plus a few luxuries—camp chairs, lantern, a small cooler, hammock, and extra clothes for weather shifts.
• Where to Camp: Choose a more secluded site tucked further back in the loop, or opt for one of the electric sites if you’re bringing gear that needs charging.
• What to Do: Spend the first day settling in and hiking the main trails. Day two could include a morning drive to Adkins Arboretum and lunch in Denton. Return for sunset at the river and a slow evening around the fire. On day three, clean up your site, take one last walk by the creek, and leave before noon checkout.

This kind of trip lets you really unplug and enjoy the simplicity of this quiet state park.

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Frequently Asked Questions