Assateague Island

Assateague Island is a 37-mile (60 km) long barrier island located off the eastern coast of the Delmarva Peninsula facing the Atlantic Ocean. The northern two-thirds of the island is in Maryland while the southern third is in Virginia. The Maryland section contains the majority of Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park. The Virginia section contains Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and a one-mile stretch of land containing the lifeguarded recreational beach and interpretive facilities managed by the National Park Service (or NPS). It is best known for its herds of feral horses, pristine beaches and the Assateague Lighthouse. The island also contains numerous marshes, bays, and coves, including Toms Cove.

Camping is available only in the Maryland district of Assateague Island. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15. Campsite reservations are available six months in advance.  Oceanside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Oceanside Walk-in: Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Walk-in sites are closed from November 16 through March 14. Bayside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. A Drive-In “Generator-Free Zone” is located in Bayside B Loop. Horse Camp: There are 2 campsites for horse camping available October 16 through April 14. Each site accommodates up to 6 people and 6 horses. Assateague has two oceanside and four bayside camping areas in Maryland for visitors who wish to backpack or paddle the island.