Camping in Assateague State 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.

1. You can reserve the park’s 350 campsites online via Maryland Parks Reservations.
2. Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
3. 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.

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.

• 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.