Assateague Island Dog Policy

Assateague Island National Seashore encompasses sandy beaches, salt marshes, forests, and coastal bays. The Seashore offers opportunities for beachgoing, swimming, kayaking & canoeing, photography, biking, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, crabbing, and more.

Assateague Island National Seashore has dog policies that vary between the two states where it's located.

Dogs are not allowed anywhere inside Assateague Island National Seashore in the Virginia portion, not even in cars.

In Maryland, dogs are allowed at the developed campground, but not allowed on trails or backcountry campsites. Dogs are also not allowed on lifeguard protected beaches and north of the State Park in the Maryland portion.

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Website

https://www.nps.gov/asis/index.htm

Pet Policy Details

https://www.nps.gov/asis/planyourvisit/pets.htm

Hunting

Allows Hunting ^[]

Annual Visitors

2,481,660

Trail Policy

Dogs are not allowed on any trails.

Campground Policy

Dogs are allowed in the Assateague Island National Seashore Campground in Maryland, while on a leash. Dogs are not allowed at any back-country campsites.

Beach Policy

Dogs are allowed on very limited sections of the beach in the Maryland portion, in non-lifeguard sections. Dogs are also not allowed anywhere on the beach north of the State Park in Maryland.

Hunting

Warning: Hunting is allowed at this location. Please be aware of and familiarize yourself with hunting seasons, and exercise appropriate caution with your dog. During hunting season(s), you may also want to consider having your dog wear a blaze orange vest.

For more information on hunting seasons and policies, please see: https://www.nps.gov/asis/planyourvisit/hunting-at-assateague.htm