Canoeing & kayaking

Canoes and kayaks may launch from designated areas. Bay paddling is scenic, but it is unforgiving when wind and tide turn against you.

Assateague guide Official NPS

Summary for Ocean City visitors based on National Park Service Assateague guidance. Fees, hours, closures, and permit prices change—confirm on nps.gov/asis before you go.

Overview

Canoes and kayaks may be launched from designated areas on Assateague. Careful consideration should be given to weather conditions and tidal currents—bay chop builds quickly on open fetches.

Rentals are available seasonally in the Maryland district from Assateague Outfitters (roughly Memorial Day through Labor Day on the island; off-season rentals are often available nearby). Many outfitters will not rent during small-craft advisories for coastal waters from Fenwick Island to Chincoteague.

Backcountry bayside campsites support multi-day paddle trips for prepared parties. Permits are day-of only at the Maryland Ranger Station; paddlers typically park at Old Ferry Landing or Bayside Picnic Area with a permit parking tag. Carry all drinking water.

NPS strongly discourages paddling during small craft advisories. Check National Weather Service coastal waters forecasts before you put in.

Highlights

Wear a PFD; file a simple float plan with someone on shore.
Know take-out points before you put in—currents can push you past intended landings.
Give wildlife and horses wide berth from the water as well as land.
Bayside insects can be intense April–October; summer bayside camping is often miserable without serious bug defense.

Official National Park Service links

More Assateague topics

Plan your visit

Directions, fees, hours, weather, visitor centers, and what to pack from Ocean City.

Camping

Oceanside and bayside campsites, reservations, and backcountry options on Assateague.

Wildlife & wild horses

Feral horses, birds, and viewing tips—keep a safe distance and never feed wildlife.

Hiking

Short paved and unpaved loops plus 37 miles of beach—heat, insects, and tides matter.

Biking

Several miles of bike trails wind through Maryland and Virginia districts of the island.

Swimming & surfing

Swim at your own risk—strong surf and currents. Read beach and surf safety first.

Surf fishing

Surf cast for flounder, drum, blues, and more—Maryland license required; no fishing in lifeguard beaches.

Crabbing & clamming

Blue crabs and bay shellfish—check size limits and seasons at the visitor center.

Horseback riding

Seasonal riding along the beach in the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone.

Over Sand Vehicles (OSV)

Beach-driving permits via recreation.gov—equipment rules, density limits, and nesting closures.

Ranger-guided programs

Seasonal guided walks and talks that unlock barrier-island ecology and history.

Safety

Surf, sun, insects, ticks, lightning, wildlife distance, and emergency basics.

Shell collecting

Limit collecting to a gallon or less of unoccupied shells so beach life keeps its habitat.

Hunting

Regulated hunting opportunities exist—confirm seasons, permits, and safety zones with NPS.