Things To Do

Discover the Possibilities at Assateague

First-time visitors should stop at the visitor centers to see exhibits and obtain information about the many recreational activities and natural features in the seashore. Seasonally, a wide variety of guided programs can be enjoyed to enhance your visit.

 
Tent camping in the oceanside campground
Camping At Assateague

Make some memories camping at the beach. Rest, relax, recreate and enjoy some time on the edge of the continent.

Park Ranger teaches visitors about clamming.
Ranger Guided Programs

Join us on a ranger guided program and learn more about the barrier island environment.

visitor photographing wild horse
Take Amazing Wildlife Photos!

Get our tips for viewing wild horses and other wildlife and capturing amazing photos, even at a distance

picture of boardwalk on Life of the Forest trail in Maryland District
Take a Hike!

Experience life on a barrier island! Assateague has a variety of paved and unpaved trails and 37 miles of beach open for hiking.

photo of visitors riding bikes on a trail in the park
Take a Bike!

Explore Assateague Island by bike. Several miles of bike trails wind through the island in both Maryland and Virginia.

Image of four horses and riders on beach
Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is allowed seasonally along the beach in the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone.

blue crab being carefully removed by two people from crabbing net
Go Crabbing!

Named for the color of its claws and not its temperament, the blue crab is one of Assateague’s best known and most sought after creatures.

Visitor casting surf fishing rod at the ocean's edge
Go Fish!

Get some surf fishing tips and relax on the beach while you fish for your dinner!

lifeguarded beach and ocean surf in the summer
Go for a Swim!

Learn what it takes to be safe in the surf.

Group photo of hunters participating in the 2010 hunt.
Hunting On Assateague

Find out more about hunting opportunities at Assateague Island National Seashore.

view looking north on Assateague beach from behind an over sand vehicle (OSV)
Over Sand Vehicles (OSV)

Get your permit for an adventurous getaway in the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone.

lifeguard updating beach & surf conditions display board at the beach
Safety: Protect Yourself in Your Park!

You'll enjoy your visit to Assateague more if you are prepared for beach & surf conditions, weather, sun, heat, biting insects and more.

 

Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoes and kayaks may be launched from designated areas on Assateague. Careful consideration should be given to weather conditions and tidal currents. Rentals are available seasonally in the Maryland District from Assateague Outfitters.

 

Shell Collecting
Limit collecting to a gallon or less of unoccupied shells to ensure a supply for beach dwelling organisms.

 

Shellfishing
Crabbing and clamming are great ways to discover the bays behind Assateague and sample some local seafood. Stop by a visitor center or the ranger station for current size limits and regulations.

 

Swimming and Surfing
During the summer, lifeguard protected beaches are provided in both Maryland and Virginia districts. Surfing, surf fishing, mats and floats are allowed outside the lifeguarded areas. More information on Beach and Surf Safety.

 

Find Your Virtual Park

Not able to visit Assateague? Discover Assateague online through photos, videos and activities to download.
 
 
 

Last updated: May 18, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

7206 National Seashore Lane
Berlin, MD 21811

Phone:

410 641-1441

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