There are few places in the United States where you can experience the magic of wild horses in their natural habitat—and even fewer where you can camp alongside them. Assateague Island, a breathtaking 37-mile-long barrier island straddling the coasts of Maryland and Virginia, offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. From over-sand vehicle (OSV) beach driving to camping under the stars with the famous wild horses, Assateague is an adventurer’s paradise.
Exploring Assateague’s Unique Landscape
Assateague Island is a dynamic environment, constantly shaped by ocean winds and waves. The island features diverse ecosystems, including sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests, and coastal bays. These landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities, making Assateague a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) Beach Driving
One of the most exciting ways to explore Assateague is by driving along its unspoiled beaches. The OSV zone at Assateague Island National Seashore is managed by the National Park Service and offers miles of open sand for off-road vehicle enthusiasts. However, to access this experience, visitors must obtain an OSV permit.
OSV Permit Information:
Permits range from $110 to $200, depending on the type of access desired.
Permits are valid for one year from the month of purchase.
Vehicles must display a valid OSV Permit permanently adhered to the windshield.
Safety regulations require vehicles to carry necessary equipment, including tire deflators, traction aids, a shovel, and a tow rope.
Changing beach conditions can sometimes result in vehicles getting stuck. National Park Service staff can assist with deflating tires and removing sand from around wheels but cannot winch or pull vehicles out. Being prepared with the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable OSV experience.
Camping Under the Stars with Wild Horses
Camping on Assateague Island offers a rare chance to sleep near the crashing waves, beneath a sky full of stars, with wild horses grazing nearby. The park provides both oceanfront and bayside camping options, with individual, group, and horse campsites available. Reservations are required from March 15 through November 15 and can be booked up to six months in advance.
Camping Fees:
Individual sites: $40 per night
Group and Horse Camp sites: $80 per night
For self-contained vehicles, the Bullpen OSV camping area allows overnight parking, but only for hard-sided vehicles equipped with an approved toilet and permanently installed waste storage tanks. Tent camping and non self-contained vehicles are not permitted in the Bullpen overnight.
The Famous Wild Horses of Assateague
No trip to Assateague is complete without witnessing the island’s legendary wild horses. These resilient animals have adapted to the harsh coastal environment, surviving on sparse vegetation, enduring extreme weather, and forming tight social bands.
While local folklore suggests the horses are descendants of survivors from a shipwreck off the Virginia coast, historical records point to them being left on the island in the 17th century by mainland farmers who wanted to avoid livestock taxes and fencing laws. Today, the horses are divided into two herds—one managed by the National Park Service on the Maryland side, and the other owned by the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company on the Virginia side.
Pony Penning Day: Every July, the Virginia herd is rounded up and swims from Assateague to Chincoteague for the annual Pony Penning, a beloved tradition that raises funds for the local fire department. Visitors flock to witness this iconic event, made famous by Marguerite Henry’s book Misty of Chincoteague.
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
As breathtaking as these wild horses are, it’s important to respect their space. Feeding or approaching them can be dangerous—for both visitors and the horses. Human food can make them sick, and those that learn to approach roads for food are often injured or killed by vehicles. Every year, visitors are kicked or bitten because they get too close. To keep the horses truly wild, always admire them from a safe distance.
Other Outdoor Activities at Assateague
Beyond camping and OSV driving, Assateague Island offers an abundance of outdoor recreation:
Swimming & Surfing – Enjoy pristine beaches and catch some waves.
Hiking & Biking – Explore scenic trails through maritime forests and marshlands.
Boating & Kayaking – Paddle through calm coastal bays with stunning wildlife views.
Fishing, Crabbing & Clamming – Try your hand at catching fresh seafood.
Birdwatching – With over 300 bird species, Assateague is a haven for bird lovers.
Plan Your Trip
Assateague Island is an ever-changing, untamed landscape where adventure and nature go hand in hand. Whether you’re here to camp, drive on the beach, or simply take in the sights, this national seashore offers an unforgettable experience.
To book your campsite, get an OSV permit, or learn more, visit www.recreation.gov . Adventure is waiting—are you ready to experience the wild side of the coast?