Assateague Island

National seashore is beautiful! Nice if you want a quieter beach. Not hard to find a few horses here and there. Lots of friendly dogs. Showers, bathrooms available at multiple entry points to beach. Small shops to buy necessities at a few of the stops. Veterans/active military get a lifetime pass to all national parks- that was a nice surprise! Otherwise still affordable at $25/car.

Quiet, stunning and clean, this place is a GEM. It was $25 bucks on the National Park side to enter, but that's a 5-day pass with unlimited come-and-go privileges. You'll likely see the horses, and there's a Ranger never far from them to protect you and the horses, but it is definitely their island so they go where they want. The Visitor center is a cool place to start your adventure on the island for a glimpse into the history and the wildlife there. It's a phenomenal East Coast gem with an Outer Banks vibe without the crowds, commerce or traffic. You won't be staying in a place right on the beach here, it's a National Park with no lodging save a campground, but that's why the beach is wide open and clean.

Assateague Island is a truly unique and beautiful destination that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Located on the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, this barrier island is famous for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Assateague Island is its population of wild horses. These majestic animals roam freely throughout the island, creating an incredible sight for visitors. Watching the horses graze on the sandy dunes or gallop along the shores is a truly breathtaking experience. It's important to remember that these horses are wild and should be observed from a safe distance, but their presence adds a touch of magic to any visit to Assateague Island.

The beaches on Assateague Island are another highlight of this destination. The island boasts miles of unspoiled sandy shores, offering visitors plenty of space to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. The beaches are known for their tranquility, with less crowds compared to other popular beach destinations. It's the ideal place to unwind, take long walks, and enjoy the serenity of nature.

Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate Assateague Island's diverse ecosystems. The island features marshes, forests, and coastal dunes, providing a habitat for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Birdwatchers will be delighted to spot a multitude of shorebirds, including herons, egrets, and ospreys. The island is also home to other wildlife such as deer, foxes, and dolphins, adding to its natural allure.

For those looking to explore the island further, there are various outdoor activities to enjoy. Kayaking through the calm waters of the bays, hiking along the nature trails, or even horseback riding are popular ways to immerse oneself in the beauty of Assateague Island. The island also offers camping facilities, allowing visitors to spend the night under the stars and truly connect with nature.

In terms of amenities, Assateague Island provides visitors with everything they need for a comfortable stay. There are well-maintained campgrounds, picnic areas, and restroom facilities available. Additionally, the nearby towns of Chincoteague and Ocean City offer a wide range of accommodation options, restaurants, and shops for those seeking more amenities.

Overall, Assateague Island is a hidden gem that offers a truly unforgettable experience. With its wild horses, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts and a paradise for those seeking tranquility. Whether you're exploring the island's unique wildlife, strolling along the sandy shores, or immersing yourself in the beauty of its natural landscapes, a visit to Assateague Island is a journey you won't regret.

This is an amazing treasure. Well-kept park. There are a lot of people, but I never felt crowded. Lots of kayaking, hiking, beaches, horses, bugs! Come prepared to enjoy.

Nice beach with horses! Saw a few horseshoe crabs too!

Enjoyed a late-Winter OSV drive on the beach. Even spotted a bald eagle in the sand.

My family loves Assateague state park. You can see beautiful wild horses.

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Nice place. Didn’t see too many horses.