
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
RECENT NEWS
- Assateague Island Can Be Fun to Visit Year-Round December 23, 2008
- Feeling Wild November 14, 2008
- Login or register to post comments
- Email this page

