Prepare for Adventure

It is great to be excited for your field trip to the seashore, but make sure you are also prepared. Proper footwear and clothes are a must! Several layers of clothing and outerwear will keep students comfortable as temperatures on Assateague Island usually average 10 degrees cooler than on the mainland. Supplying parents and students with this information will help ensure a successful learning opportunity.

When you cross over the bridge on to Assateague Island you will be entering a park. Keep in mind there will be no running water on the national seashore. There are vault toliets located in the parking lots of the seashore but they are limited to only one or two per parking lot, so make sure to arrive early to allow time for a bathroom break.

 

Equipment needed for a field trip includes secure footwear, a towel, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, and drinking water

NPS

Recommended Items Checklist

• Secure footwear
• Drinking water
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellant
• Hat
• Rain gear (if rain is in the forecast)
• Towel
• Extra set of clothes
• Backpack to carry all supplies

 

To facilitate a quality learning experience, some programs are limited to 15 students. At least two (2) chaperones over the age of 21 (a 1:5 ratio is ideal) are required on all programs. Please encourage all participants to practice Leave No Trace principles while visiting the national seashore. Instruct your students to not take anything with them and to not leave anything behind. This guarantees a minimal impact to this unique environment.

 

Fee Waivers

If you and your class are visiting the Maryland District of the national seashore, make sure to download and fill out the Fee Waiver form.

If you and your class are visiting the Virginia District of the national seashore, print a copy of your confirmation form to bring with you. The form will be emailed to you prior to your field trip date and serves as your fee waiver into the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.

 

Maps and Meeting Locations

Maryland District Trail Map

For the Maryland District, you will receive instructions and a map on where to meet the rangers when you book your field trip.

Virginia District Trail Map

For the Virginia District, schedule to meet with the rangers at the Toms Cove Visitor Center (NPS Visitor Center on map) prior to your trip. They can discuss the logisitics with you such as the meeting location, schedule and program options.