Best Equestrian Camping near Bloxom, VA

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Horse Camping — Assateague Island National Seashore accommodates tent and RV campers with horses at its dedicated equestrian campsites. Located near Bloxom, Virginia, this campground provides essential facilities for those traveling with horses, though it does not have dedicated horse corrals. The campground offers drinking water, toilets, trash disposal, and sanitary dump stations. Campfires are not permitted at the horse camping area, which differs from other camping sections within the seashore. Reservations are not available for the equestrian sites, and they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The sites are specifically designed for visitors bringing their own horses to explore the island's natural areas.

The Assateague Island equestrian trails connect directly to the horse camping area, providing immediate access to miles of beach and inland riding opportunities. Riders can explore the island's diverse ecosystem, including marshlands, maritime forests, and beaches where the famous wild ponies roam. Horse owners must bring their own feed and water buckets, as natural forage is protected. Trailer parking is available directly at the campsites, simplifying the logistics of horse camping. The campground maintains strict guidelines regarding interaction with the wild horse herds to ensure both domestic and wild equines remain safe. Most riders report the terrain is manageable for horses of varying experience levels, with primarily flat sandy trails and beach routes. Seasonal considerations include increased mosquito activity during summer months and potential flooding during storm seasons.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Bloxom, Virginia (10)

    1. Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday

    12 Reviews
    Bloxom, VA
    7 miles
    Website

    $35 - $159 / night

    "The seasonal weekenders had gone home, and we preferred the larger, more private area behind the site to walk our dogs."

    "We'd reserved 406, but Sun Outdoors turned into KOA, so we got a different site lucky us, 'cause the middle ones were swampy with almost no space outside with sitting water on sites."

    2. Tom's Cove Park

    20 Reviews
    Chincoteague, VA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (757) 336-6498

    $4200 / night

    "People driving around in golf carts cheering, people playing board games at the campsite next door...sleep was difficult."

    "Close to the Marina, Downtown, The Blvd and the Beach. Staff are helpful but also gives you space to live."

    3. Bayside Assateague Campground — Assateague Island National Seashore

    55 Reviews
    Girdletree, MD
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 641-3030

    $40 - $80 / night

    "If you don’t mind wild horses joining you for dinner and trekking around your campsite at night, then this is your place!! The beach is absolutely gorgeous and so is the scenery."

    "Sites were not too close to one another. We had site 13 on ocean loop 1. Just a few steps, and you’re on the beach. Nice picnic table and fire pit."

    4. Chincoteague Bay Trails End Campground Resort

    3 Reviews
    Chincoteague, VA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (757) 824-3428

    "Trails end has gate with campground I.d. or sticker access."

    5. Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    39 Reviews
    Berlin, MD
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (410) 641-1441

    $40 / night

    "As an equestrian this was a once in a lifetime adventure. Feral chincoteague ponies everywhere you look!"

    "Some sites are on the beach, and you can position your tent to be on the dune looking at the water- some are inland a bit more but still a very short walk to the beach."

    6. Trap Pond State Park Campground

    44 Reviews
    Laurel, DE
    46 miles
    Website
    +1 (302) 875-5153

    $17 - $53 / night

    "The distance between sites across the loop isn’t huge or blocked by any foliage but didn’t seem to be an issue for our friends who stayed in D24."

    "It was also right near the showers, which were clean & warm, just what was needed. Tent sites are more secluded and are walk-in; our buddies tent camped the same weekend."

    7. Kiptopeke State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    Townsend, VA
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (757) 331-2267

    $30 - $47 / night

    "Virginia has some wonderful state parks and this is one of my favorites. Its got a nice beach, boat launch and a couple miles of hiking trails."

    "We love staying in the yurts at Virginia State Parks because they are always an affordable, easy way to camping without having to set up a tent or spend the extra money for a cabin."

    8. EA Vaughn Wildlife Management Area

    1 Review
    Girdletree, MD
    21 miles
    +1 (410) 376-3236

    "Lots of trails. Pretty busy with Hunters during the season. Roosters here"

    9. Sun Outdoors Frontier Town

    28 Reviews
    Berlin, MD
    41 miles
    Website

    "Due to the location near Ocean City, this campground is primarily a resort for people staying 1 or more weeks."

    "Shuttle to Ocean City, MD was convenient and general store was close by and stocked well!"

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Bloxom, VA

255 Reviews of 10 Bloxom Campgrounds


  • Maddi P.
    Sep. 8, 2018

    Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    Must see!

    I spent 5 days 4 nights on the shore of Assateague. As an equestrian this was a once in a lifetime adventure. Feral chincoteague ponies everywhere you look! Both towns of chincoteague and assatesgue lean into the horse craze, they have equestrian stores, riding barns, and horse museums just about everywhere you look. During the summer there is an annual “pony swim” where the wild ponies are rounded up and swam from one island to another so they can be sold. I cannot speak from experience but from what I learned from locals this event brings in over 50,000 people. You will need to plan around this if you wish to avoid crowds, although this location seems to be heavily populated all year round, don’t let that discourage you.

    Side note- the crabbing is amazing among the local marshes!

  • A
    May. 1, 2021

    Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    Wild, Windy & Sandy- As Expected!

    We camped in the walk-in sites toward the end (south side) of the ocean side sites. You park along side the road and walk on a boardwalk to your site. Depending on site, you will have to walk on sand to get there as well. Bring a beach wagon!

    Toilets are vault and showers are cold water beach showers (not full closure- open on the bottom) which would be fine in the summer but were a bit chilly when we went on a cool few days in April.

    No dish washing station- to be expected- but we witnessed a few pple washing dishes under the water source and dumping there - making for a large puddle of gross water- not cool.

    Some sites are on the beach, and you can position your tent to be on the dune looking at the water- some are inland a bit more but still a very short walk to the beach. Some you camp on sand (obviously) some of the inland sites have intermittent grass. I’ve heard bugs are bad in warmer months (naturally)- no mosquitos when we were there in April.

    We drove through the bay side camp sites and these looked great too- the calm-watered bay side looked nice for wading & playing for small kids. There is some shade here vs none in ocean side. It’s a short walk or drive to the ocean.

    BRING STAKES FOR SAND AND GUY YOUR TENT. I witnessed many collapsed tents while I was there. One sun shade that flew away.

    Wild horses = piles of horse poop everywhere. Wasn’t a problem, just walk around them. Keep snacks in a locked cooler. The horses came for my 3 yo who was eating snacks while loading up the car. They aren’t messing around!

    We saw many horses on ocean side & bay side. Watch out for a brown pony named Chip. The rangers & volunteers were very friendly & great at keeping tabs on the horses.

    The beach shack store across from the ranger station near the entrance offered a surprisingly large selection of items.

  • Melissa C.
    Feb. 12, 2017

    Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    Come for the wild horses, stay for the rest of the wildlife

    Many people do not realize there is a wide array of wildlife on Assateague because everyone is so obsessed with the horses. Specifically the birding on Assateague is phenomenal. Oceanside camping is very neat, but it fills up fast. The sites are close to bathrooms (I believe the national side has pit latrines). There are also showers, albeit cold. The sites are a decent size but be advised, they are completely sandy. You WILL get sand everywhere and it is unavoidable. Expect it so it does not put a dent in how wonderful the trip will be. The Oceanside sites are a dune away from the beach. Use the walkways to gain access to the beach as the dunes are protected and you will get fined for taking a shortcut. As many of the reviews advise, there are mosquitos. A lot of them. There are also biting horse flies. However catch the island on a breezy day and the breeze takes care of them. One of the best parts about Assateague is all of the activities you can do. There are bike paths, kayak rentals on the bayside, bay fishing, ocean fishing, crabbing, etc. The worst part about Assateague are all of the tourists who stop in the middle of the road to view the horses, blocking traffic and causing back ups.

  • Wendy W.
    Sep. 21, 2020

    Bayside Assateague Campground — Assateague Island National Seashore

    Bugs, Wind, and Horses Overshadowed EVERYTHING

    I was really looking forward to this trip. We stayed on the Bayside of the campground. Our site was close to the bathhouse, which was modest with cold water and vault toilets. Fresh water pump was nearby, as well.

    Based on the reviews, I was expecting a beach camp out with the ambience of wild horses running along the shore. Sand between our toes. Fire cooked meals. Idyllic... Sadly, that’s not at all what we got.

    We arrived late to meet some friends before setting up camp. We were supposed to have dinner with the them. But dinner was delayed — VERY delayed — because of horses. A small herd of them (around 8) decided to hangout in our campsite waiting for their meal. This meant we couldn’t get ours. 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. We went through this for every meal. It became a real hassle.

    It’s obvious other campers have not been so responsible with their food in this area. The standard is to hide all food as soon as you see the horses. This mean storing anything with a scent in your closed vehicle or in the “horse box” under the picnic table. With the way they would wait for us to pull food out, it was very apparent other campers allowed them to have a free-for-all previously. And no amount of noise shooed them off. If anything, it made them more aggressive and we had to watch them closely.

    A little while later, we finally settled in and set up camp after having our “dinner” in the confines of our car. Dinner was snacks since we couldn’t cook anything. Placing anything on the fire or stove was like a beacon to the horses.

    The next problem we encountered was the mosquitoes — they were everywhere and in hoards. No matter how hard you tried, there’s no keeping them out of the tent. We left a day later covered in bumps, most from throughout the night.

    One good thing was the cooler temps meant no horseflies. On a previous beach trip, we were swarmed and covered in bites within minutes of exiting our car. Be prepared because bug spray does very little.

    Let’s also not forget the “stickers” — little burr-like plant pods that are all on the ground and stuck to anything and everything, especially skin. These stung bad.

    Once settled in for the night, we dealt with the wind flapping the tent pretty wildly at times, horses neighing almost constantly and coming awfully close, and two raccoons fighting on the edge of our tent. A restful night was not in the cards there.

    The only good thing was the location. We were a short walk away from the beach. The kids and I at least enjoyed that part.

    I was beyond disappointed and cancelled my upcoming trip for the following month as soon as I got home. I don’t know if the experience was different Oceanside, but i will never be staying Bayside again.

  • R
    Aug. 29, 2018

    Bayside Assateague Campground — Assateague Island National Seashore

    Up close and personal!

    This campsite is like no other I’ve ever been to. If you don’t mind wild horses joining you for dinner and trekking around your campsite at night, then this is your place!! The beach is absolutely gorgeous and so is the scenery. If a crowded beach is not your thing, it gets less crowded as you walk away from the boardwalk. Please be kind to the horses and if you see an injured one, let the Park Rangers know immediately.

  • Tom C.
    May. 4, 2017

    Tom's Cove Park

    Toms Cove Campground

    Could not get camping spot on assateague island so we decided to try this campsite a try. If you looking for rustic, quite camping this is not the spot. They have several trailer homes living there all year round. The camping spots are all very open with close neighbors. On the positive the campsite does have many amenities, showers, game room fishing piers. The best part of this camping spot is if you have canoe/kayak/SUPB it is a great point to launch off to explore the nature reserve next to camp Cove. Lots of wild horses to see. Remember to bring bug spray!!!

  • B
    Apr. 1, 2017

    Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    Best Beach Camping in Maryland

    Wild horses, wide, clean stretches of beach, safe surroundings, close to town. This is the best beach camping in all of Maryland. Pros:

    • the beach is wide with plenty of room to stretch out and is much cleaner than that of OC and surrounding beach areas
    • the wild horses walk right up to your site!
    • almost glamping- water pumps, outhouses, showers on each loop- much appreciated after days of sand, sun, and sweat
    • pet friendly
    • fire rings at each site, bonfires on the beach

    Cons:

    • it's expensive! Sites average $30 per night AND each car is $20 to enter the park
    • reservations are practically mandatory- they book fast with little vacancy
    • this is a barrier island- mosquitos are legit. Bring bug spray with DEET. You should also expect little protection from the sun, so a canopy shelter may be helpful
    • lack of privacy- each site is only several feet from the next. Take a look at the map and book large group sites or several in a loop together for friends
  • A
    Jul. 13, 2021

    Assateague Island National Seashore Oceanside Campground

    Windy quiet easy drive from Ocean City, MD

    We camped in Site B35 on the Bayside, it was a large site with a little bit of shade.  An easy drive from Ocean City, MD.   The Campground bathrooms were ok, they have a composting toilet and a cold shower, always nice to have a bit of running water.  We did not get a visit from the horses the night we were there, but we did see them along the roadside in and out of camp.  Even though all campsites were full the 3 sites immediately around us were empty, which made for a super peaceful quiet night to gaze at the stars.  It was breezy and surprisingly comfortable for mid-July.

  • C
    Mar. 18, 2022

    Bayside Assateague Campground — Assateague Island National Seashore

    Fall asleep to the sounds of the ocean…

    This was absolutely perfect. Sites were not too close to one another. We had site 13 on ocean loop 1. Just a few steps, and you’re on the beach. Nice picnic table and fire pit. Bathrooms were super clean, with toilet paper, and hand sanitizer.

    There are a few hiking trails that are really pretty and a great opportunity to see the wild horses.

    We’re definitely coming back!!

    Quick tip for firewood: when you get about 10 miles out, there will be several spots where people sell firewood. Some are just honor system. We bought a whole stack of wood for $20 bucks.


Guide to Bloxom

Equestrian camping destinations near Bloxom, Virginia allow visitors to explore diverse coastal ecosystems with their horses. Located on the Delmarva Peninsula, this area sits at a modest elevation, with most land under 50 feet above sea level and featuring sandy soil ideal for equestrian trails. The region experiences warm summers with average temperatures in the 80s and moderate winters, creating a long riding season from March through November.

What to Do

Beach riding access: Horse camping at Assateague Island National Seashore connects directly to shoreline riding routes. "We stayed on the Bayside of the campground. Our site was close to the bathhouse, which was modest with cold water and vault toilets. Fresh water pump was nearby, as well," notes Wendy W. from her equestrian camping experience.

Kayak with horses in view: Launch from waterfront sites to observe wild horses from a different perspective. At Tom's Cove Park, one visitor shared: "If you have canoe/kayak/SUPB it is a great point to launch off to explore the nature reserve next to camp Cove. Lots of wild horses to see. Remember to bring bug spray!!!"

Trail exploration: Multiple interconnected trail systems allow for varied riding experiences through marshlands and maritime forests. "The site was pretty level and had a paved area. Easy to back into. Not much as far as privacy and the bathrooms are pretty basic," notes a reviewer about nearby camping facilities with trail access.

What Campers Like

Wildlife viewing opportunities: The proximity to wild horse herds creates unique observation chances. At Bayside Assateague Campground, a camper mentions: "Horses will roam right into campsite," providing an up-close wildlife experience not common at standard campgrounds.

Beachfront camping sites: Direct access to beaches from equestrian-friendly campgrounds. "The beach was beautiful, and you can camp roughly 100 yards from it. Many campsites available, and you can actually see the horses," shares Daniel P. about his experience camping near the shore with equestrian facilities.

Seasonal benefits: Visiting during shoulder seasons offers fewer bugs and crowds. "We chose to stay in October with less people and less bugs. Hiking and bays nearby to kayak or canoe at. Beautiful place to stay," recommends Jodi J. who enjoyed the off-peak benefits of the area's horse-friendly camping.

What You Should Know

Bug preparation essential: Biting insects can be intense, particularly during summer months. At Oceanside Assateague Campground, a camper warns: "Love this place but be prepared for the bugs. Even enjoyed this in the winter," highlighting the need for proper insect protection at equestrian sites.

Horse interaction guidelines: Wild horse management policies must be strictly followed. "A small herd of them (around 8) decided to hangout in our campsite waiting for their meal. This meant we couldn't get ours. As soon as any food would come into 'nose-shot,' they would start advancing on us," explains a camper describing the importance of proper food storage.

Limited facilities: Many equestrian camping areas have basic amenities only. "Bathhouses were not particularly sanitary. Sea gulls like to start screaming at 6 am. Lack of campsite privacy. Loud neighbors," notes one camper about the trade-offs when staying at horse-accessible campgrounds.

Tips for Camping with Families

Wildlife education opportunities: Create horse identification activities for children. At Frontier Town RV Resort, a visitor shares: "This campground is the best campground I've seen for kids. They have a water park that is included in your stay. The activities are great and your only minutes away from ocean city or Assateague State Park. Where the ponies run wild."

Beach alternatives: Balance horse observation with swimming options. "They have a wonderful pool and are a short distance from chincoteague beach! Great place to stay with family! Sites are big we fit two large tents on one site," recommends Amanda S. about family-friendly accommodations near equestrian areas.

Scheduling considerations: Plan activities around heat and bug conditions. "We enjoyed our stay very quiet and easy to find. It was nice being on the water two," notes a camper who found the waterfront locations helpful for keeping children comfortable during summer camping trips.

Tips from RVers

Site selection for horse trailers: Choose pull-through sites when available with your horse trailer. At Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday, an RVer advises: "We stayed at site 411 for five nights. We'd reserved 406, but Sun Outdoors turned into KOA, so we got a different site lucky us, 'cause the middle ones were swampy with almost no space outside with sitting water on sites. The pull-through sites are long and nicely spaced."

Utility considerations: Verify water and electric availability for horse care needs. "Our RV Garmin GPS and Waze brought us in on the back roads at Accomac versus keeping us on US-13. If the Temperanceville address doesn't work, replace Temperanceville with Sanford, VA, per their website," shares an experienced RVer about navigating to horse-friendly camping areas.

Weather preparations: Eastern Shore locations can experience sudden storms and wind. "The site was an easy back-in with the utilities nicely placed. Tall Pines is a large campground with a lot of nice amenities," notes an RVer who appreciated the well-designed sites that accommodated their rig during changing weather conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Bloxom, VA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Bloxom, VA is Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday with a 4.4-star rating from 12 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Bloxom, VA?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 equestrian camping locations near Bloxom, VA, with real photos and reviews from campers.