Assateague State Park is one of Maryland’s parks and also the only oceanfront park in the state. Located on Assateague Island, near Ocean City, the park covers an area of 855 acres and offers lots of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. When in Maryland, this park is a must-see, and here are some reasons why it should be part of one’s travel radar.
10 It Offers Opportunities To See Wild Horses
Only a few places in the US offer opportunities to see wild horses, and Assateague state park is one of them. A visit to this park is an opportunity to see Assateague Horses - a wild horse breed that’s unique to Assateague Island. These horses are small in stature, which is why they are commonly called ponies here. The horses here are often seen in Marsh areas, but they can also be seen in other areas of the park as they roam freely here.
9 Lots Of Hiking Opportunities
Assateague state park features miles of trails, many of which are easy to complete. Visitors to the park will find opportunities for hiking here on a wide variety of trails, from short walks beside the beach to forest trails that bring people close to the fauna and flora of this park.
8 It Has Beautiful Beaches
Assateague park is home to two miles of sandy beaches that offer opportunities for a wide range of activities. While one can simply enjoy a walk along the beautiful beaches, one can also enjoy the beach by camping, swimming, or surfing in the water. It can get crowded here, but there is enough space for everyone at the beaches in this state park. Lifeguards are available in selected parts of the beach as well.
7 It Offers Beach Camping Opportunities
Not many places offer the opportunity to camp at the beach and have a beautiful ocean in view, but Assateague Park offers this opportunity, and it is something worth experiencing. Some campgrounds here even offer accommodation for trailers and recreational vehicles. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, as well as a toilet and drinking water.
6 One Can Go Kayaking And Canoeing
Assateague state park is one of the best places to kayak and canoe in Maryland. With miles of beaches, marshes, and creeks, there are lots of opportunities for kayaking and canoeing in the park for all skill levels. Rentals are offered by Assateague outfitters.
5 One Can Go Hunting
Hunting for deer is permitted at Assateague State Park in the hunting area of the park, which is 450 acres large. Only archery hunting is permitted within the park, and the license required for this activity can be obtained from the state’s eRegulations website.
4 The Surf Is Great
The beaches at Assateague State offer great opportunities for surfing, especially during winter, although late summer is also a great time to surf at the park. The waves here are generally mild and suitable for beginners, but some days can come with large swells. The scenery here and the sights of wildlife roaming freely also make this experience more exciting. Surfers here are advised to always put on coast guard approved life jackets as the waves here can be unpredictable.
3 There Are Opportunities For Wildlife Viewing
Besides the wild ponies and waterfowl, Assateague park is also endowed with other wildlife. Some popular ones to keep an eye on while in the park include - the white-tailed deer and the sika deer. Marine creatures such as - crabs, dolphins, and sea turtles also inhabit the water of this park.
2 There Are Trails For Biking
Trails at Assateague Park are not just made for hiking but also for biking, as it is also one of the best ways to explore the park. The park features up to 4 miles of paved bike paths, and bicycle rentals are offered seasonally by Assateague Outfitters.
1 Opportunities For Fishing And Surf Fishing
The waters around Assateague state park are endowed with several marine creatures, including - sea trout, flounder fish, puffer fish, and croakers. Visitors to this park are allowed to fish on the beach or at the marina. Surf fishing is also allowed at the park, although visitors are only allowed to engage in this activity outside the day-use area swim beach. More information here.