There are some stretches of road that just feel like they should have more options for RVers, and for me, Maryland’s Eastern Shore is one of them. It’s a place of stunning beauty, with waterman villages, endless Chesapeake Bay vistas, and that distinct coastal vibe. But when it comes time to find a place to empty the tanks, the options can get surprisingly thin. You start pulling up a map and wondering if you’ll have to backtrack an hour just for a simple sewer connection. That’s why finding a spot like Bayshore Campgrounds in Rock Hall is such a relief. It’s not just a functional stop; it’s a destination that reminds you why you fell in love with the RV life in the first place. This isn’t some sterile, paved lot behind a gas station. This is a waterfront campground where the smell of salt and the sound of gulls replace the drone of highway traffic.
Pulling into Rock Hall, you immediately understand its nickname, “The Pearl of the Chesapeake.” It’s a genuine working town, a place where the rhythm of life is still tied to the tides and the crab pots stacked on the docks aren’t just for decoration. Before you even think about your black tank, you owe it to yourself to drive through the town. It’s a classic slice of Americana, with small maritime museums and quiet, bike friendly streets that invite you to slow down. The journey to Bayshore itself, located at 4228 Eastern Neck Road, takes you right into the heart of this scenery. You’ll roll past marinas and houses with sprawling porches, getting ever closer to the water. The final approach to the campground opens up to these incredible views of the Chester River, looking out toward the wider bay. It’s the kind of place you pull into and immediately feel your shoulders relax.
Because Bayshore is a private campground, the whole process of dumping your tanks is a world away from the hustle of a busy travel center. There’s no jockeying for position with eighteen wheelers or trying to navigate a tight, poorly marked lane. Instead, you’ll likely start with a friendly chat at the camp office. This is standard practice for private parks. You’ll check in, let them know you’re there just to use the dump station, and they’ll direct you to the spot and handle the fee. The pace is slower, more personal. It’s a great opportunity to ask for a little local knowledge, maybe a recommendation for the best crab cakes in town. The dump lane itself is usually well maintained, a perk of being in a facility where the staff takes pride in the grounds.
Let’s talk about the on the ground specifics, because that’s what really matters. The presence of potable and non potable water spigots is a huge plus. Any seasoned RVer knows the golden rule: never, ever use the hose at the dump station to fill your fresh tank. Most good places have separate spigots, but it’s on you to double check the labels. Here, you can get the dirty work done with a dedicated rinse hose and then safely top off your fresh water. If you’re traveling with a furry copilot, the dog friendly nature of the area is a real bonus. While your tanks are draining, you can take your pup for a proper walk on a grassy patch, not just a dusty corner of a parking lot. It’s these little things that turn a chore into a pleasant part of your travel day.
One thing to be mindful of at any waterfront location like this is the wind. Those Chesapeake breezes are lovely when you’re sitting in a camp chair, but they can be a real menace when you’re handling a sewer hose. A sudden gust can turn the whole operation into a messy, frustrating ordeal. I always recommend using a sewer hose weight or a brick, anything to keep that elbow securely in the drain. It’s a simple trick that can save you a lot of grief. After you’re all done, having convenient trash cans right there means you can ditch your disposable gloves and any other trash without having to haul it around in your rig. And if you’ve been on the road for a bit, having access to their on site showers and restrooms can feel like a five star luxury. It’s the perfect way to reset before hitting the road again.
The cost for using the dump station wasn’t publicly listed, but in my experience, campgrounds in this region typically charge a day use fee of around ten to twenty dollars. It’s a small price to pay for the convenience, the clean facilities, and the million dollar view. It’s always best practice to call ahead. A quick phone call can confirm the current price, their hours, and that they are indeed open to non campers for dumping. Some smaller campgrounds can have quirky hours, especially during the shoulder season, so a call saves you a wasted trip. While you’re on the phone, ask if they take cards or if you should have cash ready.
My advice for a perfect visit? Time it right. Try to arrive mid day, between about ten in the morning and two in the afternoon. This is when most overnight campers are out exploring, so you’ll likely have the place to yourself. Once the chore is done, the adventure begins. You’re just a stone’s throw from the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, a 2,285 acre sanctuary for migratory birds. It’s an incredible spot for a hike or just a quiet walk to stretch your legs. Or, head back into Rock Hall and reward yourself with some fresh seafood. After all, you’re in the heart of crab country. It would be a crime not to. This stop is more than a utility; it’s an experience. It’s a chance to handle a necessary task in a beautiful, stress free environment, making it a true gem on the Eastern Shore.
4228 Eastern Neck Rd, Rock Hall, MD 21661
(410) 639-7485
Cost: Price not available
Category: Campground
Has Water
bayshorecamping.com