Assateague Island National Seashore provides primitive tent camping opportunities in a barrier island environment spanning Maryland and Virginia coastlines. The island's terrain consists primarily of sand dunes, maritime forests, and salt marshes with an average elevation of 3-5 feet above sea level. Weather conditions can change rapidly with strong winds and temperature fluctuations common throughout camping areas.
What to do
Beach activities: Tent camping at Pine Tree Backcountry Site provides access to undeveloped beaches ideal for swimming and beachcombing during warmer months. A camper noted, "This was an excellent campsite at the perfect time of year. No insects, great weather."
Wildlife viewing: The backcountry sites offer proximity to the island's famous wild horse population. Visitors should maintain a minimum distance of 40 feet from horses at all times as required by park regulations.
Stargazing: The remote location of backcountry sites creates minimal light pollution. The Assateague night sky reveals stars, planets, and occasionally the Milky Way when weather conditions permit. Campers should bring red-filtered flashlights to preserve night vision.
What campers like
Solitude: The limited number of backcountry campsites means visitors often experience genuine isolation. A recent Vienna Maryland Wooded Campsite visitor commented, "The site offers remarkable privacy with dense tree coverage providing natural screening from neighboring properties."
Natural setting: The undeveloped character of the Maryland portion of Assateague Island creates opportunities to experience coastal ecosystems with minimal human impact. Salt marshes, maritime forests, and dune systems remain largely intact.
Off-season visits: Fall and spring camping offers reduced insects and cooler temperatures. One camper at Pine Tree noted, "Only 3 were used the night I was there," indicating low occupancy even during peak seasons.
What you should know
Permit system: All backcountry campers must obtain a permit from the ranger station before heading to campsites. There is a fee for overnight use, and campers should bring exact change.
Water planning: No drinking water sources exist at backcountry sites, requiring campers to carry all necessary water. A minimum of 1 gallon per person per day is recommended, with additional supplies during hot weather.
Insect protection: Mosquitoes and biting flies can be severe, particularly during summer months. Woodlawn Campground provides an alternative with fewer insects due to its inland location approximately 24 miles from Assateague Island.
Tips for camping with families
Distance considerations: The 6-mile hike to Pine Tree Backcountry Site can be challenging for young children. Families should plan accordingly with frequent breaks and sufficient water supplies.
Safety preparation: Cell service is unreliable across backcountry areas. Families should carry a first aid kit and know emergency exit routes from their camping location.
Alternative options: Green Run Backcountry Site provides a closer access point for families wanting to experience primitive camping without extensive hiking. The site offers direct beach access and is reached via a shorter trail.
Tips from RVers
Nearby alternatives: While backcountry sites on Assateague Island do not accommodate RVs, nearby Tingles Island Backcountry Site serves as an access point where RV campers can park for day use before hiking to tent sites.
Storage options: No secure storage exists for valuables during backcountry camping. RV campers planning to tent camp should consider security arrangements for items left in vehicles at trailheads.
Seasonal transitions: The Maryland section of Assateague Island where tent camping is concentrated experiences different conditions than nearby developed campgrounds. RV campers transitioning to tent camping should prepare for temperature differences of 5-10 degrees due to wind exposure and lack of tree cover at beach sites.
Ranger
