If you’re drawn to pristine beaches, wild horses, and breathtaking views, a trip to Assateague Island should be at the top of your travel list. This barrier island, located off the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.
The first thing to know is that there are two different Districts, the Maryland District, and Virginia District. The Virginia District is home to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge and the Assateague Lighthouse. Because there is so much to see, this post will focus on the Maryland District, just 25 minutes from Ocean City, Maryland.
Visitor Center
The Assateague Island Visitor Center is located just before the bridge that leads into the park. Open daily from 9 am-4 pm, you should definitely pop in before starting your day. During the summer months, the visitor center has a daily horse program, touch tank talks, and a creature feature!
Once you cross the bridge, make a right and head towards the Assateague Island National Seashore. A small section of the island is Assateague State Park, Maryland’s only oceanfront park. This post focuses on the National Seashore, but if you are planning on visiting the state park click here!
Entry Fees
A 7-day Park Entrance Pass costs $25.00 for everyone in your car. Every year that my family visits Ocean City, Maryland, we come to Assateague at least 3 times! Coming multiple times gives you your best chance to see as many horses as possible, in different environments as well. In my opinion, the $25.00 will be money well spent.
Wild Horses
One of the island’s most famous attractions is its population of wild horses, which roam freely throughout the area. These majestic creatures have become a symbol of the island and are a sight to behold as they wander along the shoreline and through the dunes.
The Best Places to See the Wild Horses
Because the horses are truly wild there isn’t a guaranteed spot to see the horses, but I have never visited without seeing them! They roam along the roads, the beach parking lots, back trails, marshland waterfronts, and campgrounds. You truly never know when they will pop up!
I have had the most luck just across the bridge, campground loops, and in the first set of beach parking lots.
TIP: Admire the horses from a safe distance, at least 40 feet away, and refrain from feeding or approaching them.
Wildlife and Ecosystems
The Island is home to an array of wildlife species and ecosystems. The landscape varies from white sandy beaches and dunes to pine forests and marshlands. Horseshoe crabs, shorebirds, and a variety of fish also call Assateague their home.
To experience all Assateague has to offer, I would recommend the following trails and locations:
Life of the Marsh Trail
Life of the Dunes Trail
Life of the Forest Trail
Old Ferry Landing
Additional Activities
Assateague Island offers a wide range of activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in addition to viewing the wild horses. Explore the beautiful beaches and go for a swim, go biking or hiking on the many trails, try your hand at crabbing or fishing, and enjoy birdwatching and wildlife photography.
Because this is a National Seashore, you can also experience one of my favorite things, ranger programs! Programs like clamming, crabbing, guided hikes, and kayaking all occur on the island throughout the week. I would recommend taking full advantage of these!
Camping
If you want to really immerse yourself in the Assateague experience, consider camping in the Maryland District of this beautiful barrier island! Normal campsites cost about $40 per night with many located right by the water. Waking up to wild horses in your site is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Insects can be a big nuisance though, read on below!
Flies and Mosquitoes
Alright, now it is time to talk about the only downside of Assateague, the bugs! Flies and mosquitoes can be a real problem in certain areas of the park. By the water, or spots with a breeze, they will mostly leave you alone. If you are looking to explore the trails though, you will probably be most comfortable in a long-sleeved shirt and pants with some bug spray!
With so much to do and see at Assateague Island National Seashore, you are sure to have an unforgettable experience. Pack your bug spray, sunscreen, and camera, and have a fantastic trip!
