Camping At Assateague

Campers may not bring firewood from out of state. Firewood must be purchased locally.

 

Oceanside Campground

Camping at Assateague will be a pleasant experience if you plan ahead! The barrier island habitat can be harsh if you are not prepared. Camping is available only in the Maryland district of Assateague Island. Campers are reminded to bring firewood (locally purchased), sunscreen, insect repellent, screen tents for shade and insect protection, and long tent stakes to anchor tents in the sand and wind.

 

Canine Distemper Outbreak

5-23-22: A recent outbreak of canine distemper virus has been reported in raccoons near the Bayside Campgrounds at Assateague Island National Seashore. One raccoon tested positive, and several others have shown clinical signs and staff are awaiting test results. This virus does not affect humans. However, domestic dogs, as well as other mammalian wildlife species (e.g., foxes, skunks, river otters) can become infected with this highly contagious virus.

If you are camping at Assateague Island National Seashore, please remember the following guidelines:

• Prior to visiting the park, ensure your dogs are current on their vaccines for canine distemper virus, rabies virus, and other infectious diseases that can be transmitted from wildlife.
• Keep your pets on a six-foot leash at all times.
• Dispose of trash in secure trash bins and dumpsters.
• Remove food and water sources for raccoons, including pet bowls. This will help reduce areas where raccoons can congregate and transmit the virus to other animals. Raccoons are generally nocturnal so feed dogs prior to dusk and then remove food bowls.
• Do not attempt to feed, touch or handle wildlife.

If you see wildlife in distress or behaving unusually in the park, notify Assateague Island National Seashore staff or campground hosts. If your pet comes into contact with a potentially infected animal seek assistance from your nearest veterinarian.

For more information visit: https://cwhl.vet.cornell.edu/disease/canine-distemper

 

National Park Service Reservation System

• Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15. Campsite reservations are available six months in advance. Be aware that nearly all reservations for weekends are filled the first day that they become available.
• Call the toll-free reservation line: 1-877-444-6777 (10:00 AM - 10:00 PM EST) or visit www.recreation.gov.
• Sites are $30 per night.

 

Assateague Island National Seashore Campgrounds:

• Oceanside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites are $30 per night.
• Oceanside Walk-in: Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking areas. Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. Sites are $30 per night. Walk-in sites are closed from November 16 through March 14.
• Bayside Drive-in: Tents, trailers and recreational vehicles (no hookups). Sites have a picnic table and a fire ring. A Drive-In "Generator-Free Zone" is located in Bayside B Loop. Sites are $30 per night.
• Group Camping: Organized clubs and affiliated groups must use group campsites. Tent-only sites, located 100-200 feet from centralized parking area. Sites have a picnic table and fire ring with grill. Group campsites can be reserved year round, up to 6 months in advance at $50 per night per site.
• Horse Camp: There are 2 campsites for horse camping available October 16 through April 14. Each site accommodates up to 6 people and 6 horses. The fee is $50 per night per site. Generators are permitted from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm. Sites can be reserved up to 6 months in advance. Call the toll-free reservation line: 1-877-444-6777 (10:00 AM - 10:00 PM EST) or visit www.recreation.gov. Download our horseback riding brochure (pdf file, 67kb) for more information.
• Campground Maps

 

RV Camping

NPS photo

More Camping Information

• Camping facilities include chemical toilets, cold water showers and drinking water.
• November 16 through March 14, campsites are first-come first-served and sites are $30 per night. Walk-in sites are closed.
• There is a 50% discount for campers with Golden Age, Interagency Senior, Golden Access or Interagency Access passports.
• For campground regulations or more information call the ranger station at [phone] press #1

 

 

 

 

Other Camping Opportunities

Maryland
Camping opportunities are available at Assateague State Park and nearby Pocomoke River State Park.

Virginia
There is no camping available in the Virginia district of Assateague Island. Commercial campgrounds are available on the neighboring island of Chincoteague, Virginia. For more information contact the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce at [phone].