Equestrian camping near Assateague Island National Seashore provides access to over 37 miles of coastal terrain at elevations near sea level. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching into the 90s and winter lows dropping below freezing. Coastal winds often exceed 15 mph, creating challenging conditions for setting up camp, particularly for those with larger tents or awnings.
What to do
Kayaking to sandbars: Launch directly from Tom's Cove Park to reach secluded areas unreachable by car. "My husband and son kayaked from the campground over to a lovely sand bar off of Assateague Island. They got within very close range of a herd of ponies grazing at low tide, hung out, and enjoyed their private slice of nature."
Mountain biking trails: Explore the network of gravel and dirt paths at Trap Pond State Park just over an hour from Assateague. "Good site space... Great biking (mountain and gravel). All in...would stay again," notes Gary D. The park offers both easy and moderate difficulty trails through pine forests.
Winter beach camping: Experience the shoreline during the quieter season at Oceanside Assateague Campground when crowds thin out. "We always go during the winter or early spring months to avoid the bugs as they are awful during the spring and summer," recommends Torie M. The cooler months also reduce biting fly activity that affects horses.
What campers like
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The EA Vaughn Wildlife Management Area offers primitive camping with excellent wildlife observation. "Lots of trails. Pretty busy with Hunters during the season. Roosters here," reports Wayne L. The area provides good terrain for equestrians seeking less crowded alternatives.
Sunrise coastal views: Waterfront sites at Delaware Seashore State Park offer direct access to early morning ocean vistas. "Our site was almost directly under the bridge (and also a power pole!) but this was cool, especially at night when the bridge was lit up," shares Lee D. The proximity to water allows campers to wake up to ocean sounds.
Evening campfires on the beach: After dusk, Bayside Assateague Campground permits campfires below the high tide line. "After dusk you can do beach fires as long as they're below the high tide line so they wash out," explains Tony P. This creates unique sunset viewing opportunities while enjoying the warmth of a fire.
What you should know
Bug preparation essentials: Mosquitoes and biting flies are severe, especially in warmer months. "Love this place but be prepared for the bugs. Even enjoyed this in the winter," advises Michael W. from Bayside Assateague Campground. Standard repellent often proves ineffective against the persistent insects.
Horse interaction caution: Wild horses actively investigate campsites seeking food. "As soon as any food would come into 'nose-shot,' they would start advancing on us. We waited over an hour for them to lose interest and move on to the next site," describes Wendy W. Horses can become aggressive when they detect food.
Storm readiness requirement: Weather conditions change rapidly along the coast. "Well, we did get woken up by terrible thunderstorms, but that is not the campground's fault," notes Rita M. Sites typically drain well during storms, but high winds can damage unsecured equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Free bike program: Look for campgrounds offering complimentary bicycle rentals. "Bike rentals are free (donations accepted), there are several hiking/biking/horse trails, disc golf, and canoe/kayak/peddle boat rentals," shares Lee D. about Trap Pond State Park. This saves packing space and equipment costs.
Theme weekends: Plan your equestrian camping trip around special events at family-oriented campgrounds. "This vacation beach RV park is super fun for the kids. They have old time plays, skits, and activities," explains Maya S. at Frontier Town, which also offers western-themed entertainment.
Consider shoulder seasons: Visit during May or September for moderate temperatures and reduced insect activity. "Tent sites, snack bar, warm showers and the ocean....what more could a camper want?" shares Lois at Bayside Assateague. The educational programs at visitor centers are less crowded during these periods.
Tips from RVers
Utility planning: Many campgrounds near Assateague have limited hookups. "No electric hookups or water which is expected for winter camping, we managed without for the night," notes Deanna G. who stayed at Bayside Assateague. RVs should arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries.
Sand management strategies: Beach campgrounds require special preparation for RV stabilizing. "Sites were level and paved along with some sand and grass. Also a picnic table—no fire rings at the sites, but there were a couple campfire areas scattered around the park," reports Gayle B. who stayed at Delaware Seashore State Park. Bring boards or specialized leveling blocks for sandy terrain.
Generator regulations: Rules vary significantly between campgrounds regarding generator use. "The campsites themselves were grassy, and mostly level. We were able to set up both of our tents, including the 17 foot long one. Each site has its own picnic table, but they do not have fire pits, although you are allowed to dig/build your own," explains Rita M. Always verify generator hours before booking.
