Does anyone know of a good campground for tent camping on the Chesapeake Bay. I'm hoping to find someplace clean (of course) and with hot showers. I'd also love to find someplace right on the water. One place that keeps popping up as I search on the net is Jane's Island State Park -- anyone ever been?

Also, I'm hoping that we can do some crabbing, but we don't have a boat. I've read that it is possible to catch crabs from bridges, docks, etc. -- is this really feasible?

We haven't decided exactly when to go, sometime this summer (we're flexible) so any suggestions on the best time for camping, crabbing, and visiting this region would be helpful.

Thanks!

I don't have any suggestions about camping, but I can help you out with the crabbing.

Yes, you can crab off of bridges, docks, even the water's edge. All you need is a string and some chicken necks and a long net to pull up the crabs; usually once they get hold of that chicken neck (the best thing to use for crabbing) they won't let go. I believe they need to be 5 inches from tip to tip to keep. Or if you find a camping site near the water you could use a crab trap.

What part of the Bay were you looking? Maryland? Virginia? The eastern or western side?

Carolyn, Thanks for the crabbing info. It just sounded too easy, so it's good to hear that it actually works! Right now I've only come across good camping info for the eastern side of the Bay in Maryland, specifically Crisfield. Ever been there? Any suggestions for good crabbing spots?

thea

We stayed at Jane's Island a number of years ago. Rather fun. Wish we'd had a boat, though. Looks like they rent them there now. I don't recollect any campsites directly on the water, though.

Another area you might check into is Kiptopeake State Park. It's in VA, down at the very end of the Delmarva penninsula. I've not been there, but my son was through right after they opened it several years ago, and said it's quite nice.

Be warned of two things: First, advance reservations might be a necessity. And the big green flies (and skeeters) can be a real problem in the bay area.

Hi
Just noticed your post and have a pretty good answer for you:

tryhttp:
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/outdoors/camping. They list all camping areas in Maryland and give phone numbers for each - it's a great site.
Enjoy your camping trip!!!