Assateague Island National Seashore Entrance Station — Attraction in Assateague Island

Beautiful island and gorgeous ponies!! Me and my family enjoy visiting every summer. However, we were enjoying our time on the beach when two “Park Rangers” continued to chase the ponies down the beach with flags, when the ponies were not bothering anyone at all nor were they near anyone. At one point Starlight and Theodore and their 2024 foal were resting on the beach and the foal was laying down asleep. Of course the two “Park Rangers” walked down there and began “Herding” the parents away from the foal before clapping in the foals face while he was asleep. Once he woke up and freaked out because his parents weren’t in sight, he ran halfway down the beach frantically while the “Park Rangers” walked after him laughing. Mind you the foal almost trampled multiple people and was very stressed out all because the “Park Rangers” think they know what they are doing. Both “Rangers” were female with dark hair. Later on once again they were chasing two more ponies down the beach, once the ponies refused to move any further one “Park Ranger” reached out her hand and attempted to pet the one pony. Assateagues whole “Keep em wild” moto or “Stay back 40 feet” whatever, but the “Rangers” continue to get within that distance and pet the ponies. These two need to lose their jobs because the ponies are at risk with them around. In all the years ive been coming there I’ve never seen anyone intervene with the wildlife especially not the horses, me and my family were very bothered by them.Mind you I am experienced with horses and working with horses. So i know im not exaggerating. Please get something done with these two.And fire them it’s completely inhumane and...

This is my 2nd time here. Last time I came in September a few years ago, I only saw horses at the entrance before driving into the park. I was hoping March would have more horses, and there were more!! I saw before the entrance to the park, and spotted some in the parking lot on the right where the beach is right before exiting the park. No sighting of horses throughout the park. The horses are beautiful! My favorite trail is the Forest Natural Trail the started in the forest and continues on the boardwalk through the marshland. The view is amazing. Look to the right and you will see old ferry landing where people go fishing. Inhale deeply for some fresh air. The park is pretty dogfriendly except for the Dunes Nature Trail, and I think the campground, too. I was told that you might find the horses in the campground. Both times I came to this park, I didn't see any in the campground. I did hear that they often come out later in the afternoon, evening. I did take my dogs to the sandy area behind the parking lot. There was no signs there. Not sure if that area is part of the Dunes Nature Trail. It costs $25 for a 7 day pass. If you want to drive pass the Dunes Nature Trail to the sandy area that takes you further into the national Seashore, it costs more, and if I remember correctly, it's $110 and more. I saw 2 amounts when I glanced at the sign as I was driving around. Special vehicles are required. West of the Dunes Trail is a pathway to the beach. There you will find toilets which are spacious but not flushable, and some changing stalls if you are going to the beach. It is dogfriendly. Check the rules and guidelines for seasonal...

4/5 – Beautiful Wild Horses and Beach, But a Bit Pricey for a Rainy Day

Visited Assateague Island National Seashore recently and had a mixed but overall lovely experience. First off—yes, the wild horses are real, and they’re amazing to see up close (from a respectful distance, of course). 🐎 The first day was great: we parked at the front and spotted some horses right away, which was a magical start. The beach was beautiful, the water was clean, and we even met some friendly locals who made the visit extra pleasant.

That said, accessibility could definitely be improved. We had to walk quite a ways to get to the ocean, and I really wish there had been a handicap-friendly option closer to the beach.

Now, about the second day... yikes. 🌧️ It was rainy, windy, and just not the kind of day you want to pay $25 per vehicle for. It felt like a steep price for a short visit in bad weather, especially since there’s no refund or reduced rate for the conditions. I’d really recommend checking the weather before you go unless you’re planning to get the annual pass, which might make the cost more reasonable if you’re visiting multiple times.

Despite the storm, we managed to get some beautiful photos—there’s something hauntingly peaceful about a beach in the rain. It just wasn’t the best value for a short, soggy visit.

All in all: gorgeous natural area, unforgettable horses, friendly folks, but a little pricey and could be better with access and flexible pricing. Worth going, just...