Answer
Chincoteague’s famous Pony Penning events occur on the Virginia end of the Assateague ecosystem and draw huge crowds on specific summer dates. Ocean City travelers sometimes day-trip south, but traffic and lodging near Chincoteague spike. Check official Chincoteague and NPS notices if your plans overlap.
Sources: National Park Service — Assateague · Town of Chincoteague / event notices
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
