Assateague Island is Maryland's only ocean park. The island is located off the eastern coast of Virginia and Maryland. This barrier island borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Sinepuxent Bay. The 37-mile long island is popular for fishing, camping, sunbathing, surfing and beachcombing. The island can be reached by car from both Virginia and Maryland.
Location
The Sinepuxent District Ranger Station is located on the Maryland side of the Assateague Island Park. This area can be reached from Bayberry Drive just after you pass the entrance station. Here, you can register for campsites and obtain backcountry camping permits. The entire park has 350 campsites spread out along the bay, ocean and in the backcountry.
Available Sites
The Assateague Island National Seashore allows year-round camping. Along the bayside and oceanside, there are drive-in spots available for tents, trailers and RVs. No spots have RV hookups. Along the oceanside, there are also walk-in spots for tents. There are several spots available for group camping. These spots allow for 13 to 25 people and only allow tents.
Rates
Camping rates depend upon the time of year. As of 2010, from mid-October through mid-April, sites cost $16 per night. From mid-April through mid-October, the sites cost $20 per night. The group campsites cost $30 per night. There is a 50 percent discount offered to individuals with Assateague Island National Seashore Golden Age or Golden Access passes.
Reservations
During the low season, which runs from mid-October through mid-April, no reservations are required. Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. During the high season, reservations can be made either online through the reservation website or by calling the park. Group campsites can be reserved year-round.
Hours of Operation
The campground office, which is located at the ranger station, is open at various hours depending on the season. During the less-busy seasons of late April through late May and early September through early November, the office is open Thursday through Sunday. During the high season, which runs from late May through early September, the station is open seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Rules
When camping at the Assateague Island National Seashore, a maximum number of two tents and six people are allowed per site. All sites include a grill, picnic table and access to potable drinking water, a chemical toilet and cold water showers. Pets are allowed at the campsites located in the J loop.
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