Explore
The northern two-thirds of Assateague Island features beach camping, OSV driving zones, and a separate herd of wild horses.
The Maryland district requires a 7-day vehicle pass, which costs $25. Unlike the Virginia side, dogs are permitted here as long as they stay on a 6-foot leash.
This area provides access to shallow bayside waters for kayaking and extensive beach driving zones. If you plan to drive on the sand, you need an Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) permit, which costs between $110 and $200 annually.
45 minutesMainland location
Find this center on the mainland right before the Verrazzano Bridge. Inside, you will see marine aquariums, touch tanks, and educational exhibits. Rent a bike here and ride across the bridge to bypass the park entrance traffic line.
OvernightFood storage required
Set up camp behind the dunes or along the bay. Wild horses frequently wander right through these campsites. Lock up all your food securely in a vehicle. The horses are known to steal food directly from coolers.
30 minutesAccessible boardwalk
Walk this short, accessible boardwalk trail extending over the salt marsh and shallow bay waters. It is an easy spot for birdwatching and observing the tidal ecosystem. The loop takes about 30 minutes to complete.
