About Bayside Campground — Assateague Island NS
Assateague Island is most famous for its herds of wild chincoteague ponies that roam freely across the beach
and campground. These feral horses evolved to survive on the salt marsh grasses and routinely wander through
camp, creating one of the most unique wildlife encounters in any US campground.
Highlights
- Wild ponies roam freely through the campground
- Atlantic Ocean beach access
- Crabbing and fishing in the bay
- Spectacular sunrise on the ocean side
- Shelling and wildlife photography year-round
Directions & How to Get There
From Ocean City, MD: Take US-50 W to MD-611 S approximately 8 miles to the island bridge and park entrance.
From Washington D.C.: Take US-50 E to Berlin, then MD-611 S, approximately 3 hours. From the Virginia side: The
NPS Chincoteague Refuge is a separate entity accessed via VA-175.
Nearby Attractions
- Chincoteague NWR (Virginia side)
- Ocean City, MD (10 mi)
- Assateague Lighthouse (Virginia side)
- Wild pony roundup (Chincoteague, July)
- Berlin, MD historic town (10 mi)
Insider Tips
- Wild ponies are beautiful but dangerous — never feed or approach them
- Mosquitoes are intense June–August — bring maximum-strength repellent and a head net
- The annual pony swim and auction at Chincoteague is in late July — an extraordinary event
- Driving on the beach requires an ORV permit available at the entrance
Best Time to Visit
Best months: May, September–October
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Easy access
What to Pack for Maryland Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route