Go to the National Park Service's website to make reservations up to six months in advance to stay at one of the Assateague National Seashore campsites. Book early if you are going between April 15 and October 15. After October 15, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Pick the type of site you would like. If you have a tent or RV, choose between an oceanside or bayside drive-in site, although hookups are not available. Large groups or clubs must use a group campsite, which are for tents only. These sites have cold-water showers and drinking water. Bathroom facilities have chemical toilets.
Obtain a permit if you plan on staying at one of the island's backcountry camp sites. Hikers can choose between two oceanside and four bayside backcountry campsites. Be aware that the sites have no fresh water and you must bring it in yourself. You can buy a backcountry permit at the ranger station in Maryland or at the Toms Cove Visitor Center, although the latter is closed Tuesdays through Thursdays from December through February.
Buy firewood in the park. The park does not allow outside wood in.
Reserve a tent or vehicle campsite through the Maryland Department of Natural Resources online reservation system or call 888-432-2267. Reservations cannot be made at Assateague State Park.
Walk or drive in and obtain a site. If sites are available, Assateague State Park will take visitors without reservations.
Know the guidelines. Assateague State Park only allows three camping units on each campsite. Only one of those units can have wheels. In other words, you can have two tents and a pop-up trailer. Only two vehicles are allowed to park at each campsite. Any other vehicles will have to park in an overflow parking lot. Also, only six people, including babies, are allowed on each site. If a family has more than six people, it will have to request a special exception from the duty officer or supervisor in charge of Assateague State Park that day.
Buy firewood at the park. The park does not allow outside wood in.
