Camping near Assateague Island National Seashore
Assateague Island National Seashore in Maryland features several campgrounds where visitors can experience coastal camping with unique wildlife encounters. The area includes Bayside and Oceanside campgrounds within the National Seashore, as well as Assateague State Park Campground. These established campgrounds accommodate both tents and RVs, with some sites positioned directly on the beach or with bay views. Sun Outdoors Ocean City and Frontier Town offer additional options nearby with more amenities, including cabin rentals and glamping accommodations.
Seasonal considerations significantly impact the camping experience at Assateague. Most campgrounds operate from April through October, with limited facilities available during the off-season. Mosquitoes and biting flies can be problematic during summer months, particularly at bayside locations where there is less ocean breeze. Campsites are subject to strong coastal winds, especially in oceanfront locations where sand stakes are necessary to secure tents. Wildlife encounters with the island's famous wild horses are common throughout the campgrounds, requiring visitors to properly store food. A visitor noted, "Make sure to lock up your coolers. Some people in the site across from me had some uninvited guests while grilling."
The presence of wild horses creates a distinctive camping environment that draws many visitors to Assateague. Campers frequently mention interactions with these horses as a highlight of their stay. "The horses do run through the camp and on the beach," one review mentioned. Oceanside sites provide immediate beach access with the sound of waves and spectacular sunrises, while bayside locations offer more shade and protection from winds. Facilities vary by location, with most offering basic amenities such as cold showers, toilets, and fire rings. Fall camping is recommended by several reviewers to avoid summer crowds and insects while still enjoying moderate temperatures. Winter camping provides the most solitude but requires preparation for potential harsh weather conditions and limited services.
