Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore is a stunning protected area located on the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, USA. The barrier island stretches over 37 miles and is home to diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays.

The island has a rich historical background. Native American tribes, such as the Assateague and Pocomoke, originally inhabited the land. European colonizers later arrived, and the area became a hub for fishing and maritime trade. Today, the island is home to a small population of Chincoteague Island ponies, a breed descended from horses brought by settlers.

Visitors to Assateague Island National Seashore can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. The pristine beaches are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The island is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 bird species, including the endangered piping plover. Additionally, anglers can try their luck at surf fishing or crabbing in the coastal bays.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the island's scenic trails, such as the Life of the Marsh Trail or the Woodland and Marsh Loop. Kayaking and canoeing opportunities are also available, allowing visitors to paddle through the serene waters of the bays and wetlands.

One of the main attractions on Assateague Island is the Assateague Lighthouse. Built in 1867, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views from the top and provides insight into the island's maritime history. The nearby Tom's Cove Visitor Center provides educational exhibits about the island's wildlife and history.

For those seeking nearby attractions, the charming town of Chincoteague, just across the bridge, offers boutique shops, local seafood restaurants, and the annual pony swim event. The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is another popular spot, providing additional opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.

Assateague Island National Seashore is a unique destination that combines natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a fascinating history. Whether visitors choose to relax on the beaches, explore the trails, or observe the island's wildlife, this coastal gem offers an unforgettable experience.

Assateague Island National Seashore is situated along the eastern coast of the United States, specifically within the states of Maryland and Virginia. This unique barrier island stretches approximately 37 miles from the northern part of the Maryland coast to the southern part of the Virginia coast. The island is divided between the two states by a state line that runs through the middle of it. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to its east and the Sinepuxent Bay to its west, Assateague Island is renowned for its pristine beaches, undulating sand dunes, and diverse habitats. Its geographic location provides visitors with stunning views of the ocean, tidal marshes, maritime forests, and a wealth of wildlife, making it a true natural gem on the mid-Atlantic coastline.

Address & Contact

7206 National Seashore Lane
Berlin, MD 21811
Driving Directions
Phone: 4106411441
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Assateague Island National Seashore would be during the months of April, May, and June. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 70°F to 86°F, providing pleasant weather for outdoor activities. The average monthly precipitation remains relatively low, ranging from 3.5 inches to 3.9 inches, ensuring dry conditions for visitors. Additionally, the number of visitors per month gradually increases during this period. This timeframe allows for an enjoyable experience while avoiding the largest crowds experienced in July and August.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Assateague Island National Seashore are: Astronomy Stargazing Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Arts and Culture Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Car or Front Country Camping Horse Camping (see also Horse/Stock Use) Hiking Front-Country Hiking Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Backcountry Hiking Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Auto and ATV Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Swimming Group Camping RV Camping Auto Off-Roading Saltwater Fishing Horse Camping (see also camping) Stand Up Paddleboarding Saltwater Swimming Compass and GPS Geocaching Off-Trail Permitted Hiking Surfing

Topics

Learn about these topics at Assateague Island National Seashore: Animals Birds Geology Fish Tortoises and Turtles Trails Climate Change Coasts, Islands and Atolls Dunes Oceans Horses (wild)

Visitor Centers

Maryland District Ranger Contact Station & Campground Office

Offers campground information and registration, backcountry camping permits, hunting information, entrance passes and over-sand vehicle permits.

Campsites within or near Assateague Island National Seashore

Back Country Camping - Green Run

Bayside back country site
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Back Country Camping - Little Levels

Back Country Camping, bayside
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Back Country Camping - Pine Tree

Bay side back country campsite
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Back Country Camping - Pope Bay

Bay side back country campsite
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Back Country Camping - State Line

Back Country Camping; ocean side
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Back Country Camping - Tingles Island

Bayside back country site
Fees (US$): 10.00 (Back Country Camping Permit), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 1
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: None
Potable Water: No water

Bayside Drive-in Campground

Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites are $40 per night. No generators allowed in Loop B. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15, and are available for November 16 through March 14.
Fees (US$): 40.00 (Camping Fee), 20.00 (IA Senior Pass or IA Access Pass camping fee), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 22
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Horse camping

Horse campers must bring their own horses. Sites have a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and hitching posts. Sites are $80 per night. Maximum 6 people and 6 horses. Up to six vehicles or trailers. Reservations are required 10/16 - 4/14.
Fees (US$): 80.00 (Camping fee), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 2
Toilets: Vault Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Oceanside Drive-in Campground

Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites are $40 per night. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15. All sites are First Come/First Serve from November 16 through March 14.
Fees (US$): 40.00 (Camping fee), 20.00 (IA Senior Pass or IA Access Pass camping fee), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 16
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Oceanside Group Campground

Organized clubs and affiliated groups must use group campsites. Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking area. Sites have multiple picnic tables and fire rings with grills. Group campsites can be reserved year round, up to 6 months in advance at $80 per night per site. 7 minimum - 25 maximum campers per site.
Fees (US$): 80.00 (Group Camping Fee), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 5
Toilets: Vault Toilets - year round
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - year round

Oceanside Walk-in campground

Tent only sites. Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites are $40 per night. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15. These sites are closed from November 16 through March 14.
Fees (US$): 40.00 (Camping Fee), 20.00 (IA Senior Pass or IA Access Pass camping fee), 25.00 (Vehicle Entrance Fee)
Total Campsites: 62
Toilets: Vault Toilets - seasonal
Showers: Cold- Seasonal
Potable Water: Yes - seasonal

Hotels within or near Assateague Island National Seashore

Comfort Suites Ocean City

With a stay at Comfort Suites Ocean City in Ocean City (West Ocean City), you'll be steps from Wheels of Yesterday and Tanger Outlet Center. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 12718 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Gateway Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection

Located in Ocean City, Gateway Hotel & Suites, Ascend Hotel Collection is by the ocean, within a 5-minute walk of Ocean City Beach and Ocean City Boardwalk. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 11 N Baltimore Ave, 1st and Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Rideau Oceanfront Motel

A stay at Rideau Oceanfront Motel places you in the heart of Ocean City, within a 5-minute walk of Ocean City Boardwalk and Ocean City Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and an elevator. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 16 N. Baltimore Avenue, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Madison Beach Motel

When you a stay at Madison Beach Motel in Ocean City, you'll be in the entertainment district, just steps from Ocean City Boardwalk and Ocean City Beach. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and ATM/banking services. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: 9 North Baltimore Ave, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Ocean City, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites West Ocean City, an IHG Hotel in Ocean City (West Ocean City), you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Baja Amusements and Wheels of Yesterday. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 12552 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ocean City

With a stay at Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ocean City in Ocean City (West Ocean City), you'll be within a 10-minute walk of Grand Prix Amusements and Baja Amusements. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 12536 Ocean Gateway, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Key West Cottages on the Chincoteague Bay

Located in Chincoteague, Key West Cottages on the Chincoteague Bay is within a 5-minute drive of Robert N. Reed Downtown Waterfront Park and Captain Timothy Hill House. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 6125 Poplar Street West, Chincoteague, Virginia 23336
Web: Link

Hampton Inn & Suites Ocean City West

With a stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Ocean City West in Ocean City (West Ocean City), you'll be steps from Wheels of Yesterday and 3 minutes by foot from Tanger Outlet Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 12708 Ocean Gateway Hwy, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Cambria Hotel Ocean City - Bayfront

With a stay at Cambria Hotel Ocean City - Bayfront in Ocean City, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Isle of Wight Bay and Ocean Bowl Skate Park. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 13 SAINT LOUIS AVE, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link

Exceptional Vacation In Ocean City 2 Bedroom Condo

When you a stay at this condo in Ocean City, you'll be next to a golf course, just steps from Ocean City Boardwalk and Ocean City Beach. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 401 Atlantic Ave, Ocean City, Maryland 21842
Web: Link