Camping with Wild Horses at Assateague Island: An Unforgettable Adventure

Driving into the park, the first thing you smell is the salty Atlantic air. Then you notice it right away, hoofprints pressed into the sand. Traffic slows to a crawl as a family of wild horses crosses the road with regal indifference.

Camping here means being one with the horses. While you’re required to keep your distance, these wild beasts have a tendency to sneak up on you when you least expect it.

After setting up camp, we took an evening stroll. But the trail ahead was blocked by three horses, unmoving and unbothered by our presence. We stopped, silently observing, as the sunset ignited the sky around us in brilliant gold and rose. Later, just as we were climbing into our tent, the sound of hoofbeats and whinnies broke the quiet. The same three horses had wandered into our campsite, grazing just feet from our tent walls.

There’s something magical about sharing this island with creatures so beautiful, and also a bit dangerous. If you’ve ever dreamed of wild horses, untamed seas, and nights with nothing but stars, camping on Assateague Island, a breathtaking 37-mile-long barrier island straddling the coasts of Maryland and Virginia is where that dream becomes real.

Video of our Adventures in Assateague National Seashore

The Wild Horses of Assateague

The Assateague horses are the island’s most famous residents. Their origin story is steeped in legend, some believe they swam ashore from shipwrecks, while historical records suggest they descended from domesticated horses left by early settlers. Either way, these animals are truly wild, managed by the National Park Service and left to roam the beaches, dunes, and marshes freely.

Important: These horses are not tame. Visitors must stay at least 40 feet away, store all food securely, and never feed or touch them.

Watching them move across the sand at sunrise or graze in the dunes at dusk is an experience you’ll never forget.

Pony Penning Day: Every July, the Virginia herd is rounded up and swims from Assateague to Chincoteague for the annual Pony Penning, a beloved tradition that raises funds for the local fire department. Visitors flock to witness this iconic event, made famous by Marguerite Henry’s book Misty of Chincoteague.

Wild Horses of Assateague Blocking the Bike Path

Exploring Assateague’s Unique Landscape

Assateague Island is a dynamic environment, constantly shaped by ocean winds and waves. The island features diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays. These landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, making Assateague a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.

Explore easy accessible trails for walking, a long bike path, visitors center with hands-on activities and education, and an endless stretch of white sand beach. If you are adventurous you can also bring a surf board as there is often a great swell, but to me watching them catch waves in just as fun!

• Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) Zone: With the right permit and a 4WD vehicle, you can drive miles of untouched shoreline.

• Bike Path: While its not the longest bike path in the world, cyclists can enojy about 4 miles of biking through the park. Often your path will be blocked and you will need to go around wild horses (more info on bake trails here).

• Hiking Trails: Short nature walks like the Life of the Marsh Trail and Life of the Forest Trail reveal the island’s diverse ecosystems.

• Paddling: Kayak or paddleboard the bayside marshes for birdwatching and serene exploration.

• Surfing: The beach break here can get huge so make sure to check the surfing report before you go. Rentals can be bought off-island about 15 mins drive away at Malibu's.

• Beachcombing & Swimming: The Atlantic coastline stretches endlessly, perfect for long walks, shell hunting, and dips in the surf.

• Fishing, Crabbing & Clamming: Try your hand at catching fresh seafood.

• Birdwatching: With over 300 bird species, Assateague is a haven for bird lovers.

Assateague National Park Pamphlet

Camping Under the Stars with Wild Horses

Camping on Assateague is rustic, raw, and breathtaking. Oceanfront sites mean you’ll fall asleep to crashing waves and wake up to seabirds overhead. Bayside sites offer calmer waters and stunning sunset views.

A blazing sunset from the Oceanside Campground at Assateague National Park

Here’s what you need to know:

• Campsites: Both Maryland and Virginia sections of the island offer camping. The National Park Service campground has oceanfront and bayside sites; reservations are recommended months in advance.

• Fees: $30–$50 per night, depending on season and site.

• Facilities: Expect vault toilets, cold showers, and water pumps. Don’t come expecting luxury, this is about connection with nature. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings.

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer bugs. Summer can be hot and humid, with mosquitos in full force.

• BUGS: The bugs are known to get vicious here! Visiting in off-season is a great way to avoid bugs, but during the high season come prepared with bug spray.

Tip: Bring a tent that can withstand high winds, as the coastal breezes can be intense.

Camping Outside of The Campground:

For self-contained vehicles, the Bullpen OSV camping area allows overnight parking, but only for hard-sided vehicles equipped with an approved toilet and permanently installed waste storage tanks. Tent camping and non self-contained vehicles are not permitted in the Bullpen overnight.

Off-Roading on the Beaches of Assateague is an Unmatched Thrill!

OSV Permit Information:

• Permits range from $110 to $200, depending on the type of access desired.

• Permits are valid for one year from the month of purchase.

• Vehicles must display a valid OSV Permit permanently adhered to the windshield.

• Safety regulations require vehicles to carry necessary equipment, including tire deflators, traction aids, a shovel, and a tow rope.

Changing beach conditions can sometimes result in vehicles getting stuck. National Park Service staff can assist with deflating tires and removing sand from around wheels but cannot winch or pull vehicles out. Being prepared with the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable OSV experience.

One of the most exciting ways to explore Assateague is by driving along its unspoiled beaches. Even if you do not plan to sleep out there I would highly suggest driving out here for fishing, a picnic, or just to experience the thrill of driving that close to the ocean!

Short Video of Camping with Wild Horses

What to Pack

• Sturdy, wind-resistant tent

• Bug spray (trust me, the mosquitos are legendary)

• Layers for chilly nights and breezy mornings

• Sand-friendly cooking setup (stove or grill—campfires only in designated areas)

• Binoculars and camera for wildlife watching

• Waterproof storage for food and gear

• Beach gear

• Sunscreen

• Pack in all of your food, there are no restaurants or stores that sell food in the park

• Drinking Water

• Camera

Plan Your Trip

Assateague Island is an ever-changing, untamed landscape where adventure and nature go hand in hand. Whether you’re here to camp, drive on the beach, or simply take in the sights, this national seashore offers an unforgettable experience.

To book your campsite, get an OSV permit, or learn more, visit www.recreation.gov . Adventure is waiting—are you ready to experience the wild side of the coast?