Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore

Assateague Island National Seashore

Storm tossed seas, as well as gentle breezes shape Assateague Island. This barrier island is a tale of constant movement and change. Bands of wild horses freely roam amongst plants and native animals that have adapted to a life of sand, salt and wind. Special thickened leaves and odd shapes reveal the plant world?s successful struggle here. Ghost crabs buried in the cool beach sand and tree swallows plucking bayberries on their southward migration offer glimpses of the animal world?s connection to Assateague. Human struggles are intertwined with this island at the ocean?s edge. Gallant surf rescues by the US Life-Saving Service and dashed dreams of a summer beach resort are but a few of the stories told here. Marine and terrestrial life functioning in concert offer a closer look at a natural and cultural world shaped by forces larger than our own.

IN DEPTH

Park Regulations & Safety Permits Over Sand Vehicle Permit Permits cost from $70 to $150, depending on the type of access desired and are valid for a twelve-month period, beginning with the month of purchase...read more

Visitor Services Bookstore Visit Assateague's online bookstore. Eastern National currently operates educational retail outlets in 30 states, from Maine to the Caribbean. We see our mission as a double opportunity to offer quality...read more

Things To Do 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...read more

Plants Trees and Shrubs On barrier islands such as Assateague that are subjected to strong, salt-laden winds, tree and shrub growth is restricted both in size and location. Sheltered areas behind...read more

Animals Birds Located along the Atlantic migratory flyway, Assateague Island plays host to a wide variety of both migratory and resident bird species. Because its mid-latitude location is within the migratory...read more

Geology Coasts / Shorelines Assateague Island stretches for 37 miles along the Atlantic coasts of Maryland and Virginia and is part of a vast chain of barrier islands extending from Maine...read more

Preservation Support Assateague There are many opportunities for you to support Assateague Island Increasingly partnerships are becoming an effective means for the National Park Service to fulfill parts of our mission and...read more

Just For Kids FOR KIDS Programs For Kids Assateague Island National Seashore offers a variety of kids programs during the summer months. Check at the Barrier Island or Toms Cove visitor centers for program...read more

Planning Your Visit Things To Know Before You Come Summers at Assateague are generally hot and humid. Mosquitos and ticks are abundant from spring through autumn. Insect repellent and/or protective clothing is recommended....read more

In A Nutshell Operating Hours & Seasons Maryland District Open year round, 24 hours a day. Barrier Island Visitor Center Open All Year 9:00...read more

PARK PHOTOS

Assateague Island : Assateague Island, 0189
Assateague Island, 0189
National Park Service
Assateague Island : Assateague Island, 1092
Assateague Island, 1092
National Park Service
Assateague Island : Assateague Island, 2576
Assateague Island, 2576
National Park Service