Three agencies administer Assateague, a windswept barrier island that offers many opportunities for seashore recreation and nature study. Ocean swimming, camping, bayside canoeing, crabbing, clamming, hunting, surf-fishing and off-road vehicle use are all popular. The famous wild horses roam throughout and share beach to bay habitats with a host of other mammals and nearly 300 species of birds. Assateague Island became part of the National Park System in 1965. Thirty-seven miles long, the island covers over 18,000 acres in the states of Maryland and Virginia.

Most visitors come to experience Assateague's beautiful, white sand beaches. Early risers enjoy golden Atlantic sunrises. Assateague's wild horses are equally as alluring, even to many people who have never been to the island. The "wild" horses on Assateague are actually feral animals, meaning that they are descendants of domestic animals that have reverted to a wild state. In addition, the multitude of birds found on Assateague Island is, at times, truly spectacular. Ospreys are common nesting inhabitants, and in recent years even brown pelicans and bald eagles have taken up residence!

• Maryland District -
• Virginia District -

• Go to the visitor centers to see exhibits and obtain literature about the natural features of the seashore or participate in one of the guided programs.
• Enjoy golden Atlantic sunrises and be patient long enough to catch a glimpse of Assateague's wild horses and ospreys.
• Stroll along the windswept white sand beaches and dig for crabs or clams.