By Patricia Poulin
Camping at Assateague Island
Assateague Island is a 37-mile long barrier island off the eastern shore of Maryland offering camping and outdoor adventure. Home to native wild ponies and rich in natural history, Assateague is an ideal spot for a getaway vacation.
Assateague Island State Park
Photo: Patricia Poulin
In 1994 Assateague Island State Park was named one of the 10 best state parks in the United States by National Geographic Travel Magazine. Camping is available from April through October in 350 locations. You can make reservations up to 12 months in advance by contacting the park or reserving online.
Assateague State Park
(888) 432-2267 Reservations
(410) 641-2120 State Park Direct Line
reservations.dnr.state.md.us
Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore features oceanside drive-in and walk-in campsites. If you are seeking a "generator-free" drive-in camping area, try the bayside camping loop. From Oct. 16 to April 14, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations for peak season (April 15 to Oct. 15) can be made up to six months in advance. Reservations can be made by contacting the park or going online.
Assateague Island National Seashore
(877) 444-6777 Reservations
(410) 641-3030 Campground Office
www.recreation.gov
Camping Tips
Sunrise Photo: Brian Ricketts
Assateague Island is susceptible to unexpected inclement weather and biting bugs during the summer. If you are camping with a tent, come prepared with extra long tent stakes to secure your camp. Shade is limited along the oceanside campsites, so bring along a shade tent and maybe a bug tent or plenty of bug spray.
Activities
Assateague Island offers outdoor activities for the entire family, including hiking, biking, swimming, sunbathing, beach combing, fishing, surfing and kayaking.
Additional Information
If you are unable to tote along your own bikes or need a kayak to paddle out and experience the inner depths of Sinepuxtent Bay, check out Coastal Bays Program located at Assateague Island National Seashore. It offers kayak and bike rentals by the hour or day.
About the Author:
Patricia Poulin is a freelance writer based out of the western slope of Colorado. Poulin's travels and insight have chronicled in print media resources, such as "Inside Outside" and "Breathe" magazine. She is also a regular contributor for other various publications including "USA Today." Poulin holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Photo Credits:
Assateague Island National Seashore Visitor's Center Photo: Patricia Poulin
