Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve the park’s 350 campsites online via Maryland Parks Reservations.
- Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
- Campsites can book up fast, especially for peak season (June-September) and holiday weekends. Aim to book more than six months in advance for these times.
When to Go
Summertime is the most popular time to visit Assateague State Park, when swimming and water sports draw crowds to the coast. Shorebirds migrate to the marshes along the Atlantic Flyway in summer, while fall sees large numbers of waterfowl swoop in. Camping is possible from the last week of April through the last weekend of October, but year-round camping is available on the surrounding national seashore.
Know Before You Go
- Assateague State Park is 12 miles south of Ocean City or about a 30-minute drive away. Entrance to the island is via the Assateague Island State Park Boat Ramp, while the rest of the island is part of the Assateague Island National Seashore.
- Along with camping, boating, and watercraft fees, day-use fees also apply.
- Park facilities include a day-use and beach area, a summer snack bar, accessible portable restrooms, and a marina with a boat launch and fishing pier. The mainland visitor center has restrooms, a gift shop, and an aquarium.
- Surfboards, kayaks, and non-motorized vessels may be launched from the beach in daylight hours, outside of the swimming area. Swimming is permitted in the flag-designated swimming area only, but there is no lifeguard service.
- Assateague has free-roaming herds of wild ponies, and visitors are advised to keep a distance, as the feral animals may kick or bite. Keep all food secured at your campsite, and do not approach ponies if they enter the camping areas.
Assateague State Park
Sandy beaches, wild ponies, and bird-filled marshlands await.
Encompassing a two-mile stretch of Assateague Island, Assateague State Park is an idyllic slice of nature—think white-sand beaches, rolling dunes, and lush marshes. Campers can choose from primitive sites or electric hookups at Assateague State Campground, all within easy reach of the beach, where you can swim, fish, or paddle out to tranquil coves by canoe or kayak. The island’s prime location on the Atlantic Flyway means birdwatchers are in their element, with huge numbers of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. Keep a look out for the island’s equine residents, too—herds of wild ponies roam freely around the park.
Encompassing a two-mile stretch of Assateague Island, Assateague State Park is an idyllic slice of nature—think white-sand beaches, rolling dunes, and lush marshes. Campers can choose from primitive sites or electric hookups at Assateague State Campground, all within easy reach of the beach, where you can swim, fish, or paddle out to tranquil coves by canoe or kayak. The island’s prime location on the Atlantic Flyway means birdwatchers are in their element, with huge numbers of migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. Keep a look out for the island’s equine residents, too—herds of wild ponies roam freely around the park.
Activities in the park
1 campground in Assateague State Park
Don’t feel like camping this week? Two words to change your mind: Wild Horses. That’s right: stay at Assateague State Park and catch a glimpse of their famous wild island horses. With over two miles of beach, the water is your best friend; go kayaking, swimming, or sunbathing, and make sure you visit the Pony Express Camp Store and Grill for some Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- You can reserve the park’s 350 campsites online via Maryland Parks Reservations.
- Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
- Campsites can book up fast, especially for peak season (June-September) and holiday weekends. Aim to book more than six months in advance for these times.
Read more...Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Summertime is the most popular time to visit Assateague State Park, when swimming and water sports draw crowds to the coast. Shorebirds migrate to the marshes along the Atlantic Flyway in summer, while fall sees large numbers of waterfowl swoop in. Camping is possible from the last week of April through the last weekend of October, but year-round camping is available on the surrounding national seashore.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between camping at Assateague State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore?
Both Assateague State Park and Assateague Island National Seashore offer camping experiences on the beautiful Assateague Island, but there are some differences between the two:
Assateague State Park:
Assateague Island National Seashore:
Both locations provide a unique experience with opportunities to see the famous wild horses that roam the island. The choice between the two depends on your preference for amenities and the level of adventure you seek.
Can you camp overnight on Assateague Island?
Yes, you can camp overnight on Assateague Island. The island is divided into two main areas: Assateague Island National Seashore and Assateague State Park. Both areas offer camping options. Assateague Island National Seashore has two campgrounds: Oceanside Campground and Bayside Campground. Oceanside Campground is close to the beach, while Bayside Campground is closer to the bay. You can find more information about camping at the National Seashore here. Assateague State Park also offers camping, with 350 campsites available. The campsites are located near the beach, and you can find more information about camping at Assateague State Park here. Please note that reservations are required for both the National Seashore and State Park campgrounds, and it is essential to follow the rules and regulations to protect the island's natural resources and wildlife.
How many campsites are in Assateague State Park?
Assateague State Park offers 350 campsites for visitors. These campsites accommodate a variety of camping options, including tents, RVs, and trailers. You can find more information about the park and its campsites here.
How much does it cost to camp at Assateague State Park?
At Assateague State Park in Maryland, camping fees vary depending on the type of campsite, season, and day of the week. For a standard campsite without hookups, the fees range from $25 to $45 per night. Electric campsites range from $35 to $55 per night. The park also offers discounts for Maryland residents and senior citizens. You can find more information about camping at Assateague State Park on the Hipcamp Assateague State Park page and the Maryland Department of Natural Resources reservation site.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —