Maryland / Worcester County / Assateague Island National Seashore

Back Country Camping - Pope Bay

Open — Open year-round. Permits issued first-come, first-served on day of departure at Maryland District Ranger Station. No advance reservations accepted.

About

Pope Bay backcountry campsite offers a true wilderness camping experience on the bay side of Assateague Island National Seashore. This primitive site is accessible only by foot along the beach or by hand-paddled watercraft, with all motorized transportation strictly prohibited. The campsite accommodates a single party and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations accepted due to changing weather conditions. Permits cost $10 per person over 16 years of age and are valid for up to 7 days. All members of the camping party must be present at the Maryland District Ranger Station to obtain a permit on the day of departure. The site features vault toilets available year-round, but campers must bring all their own water as none is available on site. Fires are permitted using only dead and down wood collected on the island; out-of-state firewood is prohibited. Campers must pack out all trash, and glass containers are not permitted at backcountry sites. Pets are not allowed. Winter camping on the bayside offers protection from wind compared to oceanside locations, though conditions can be damp, cold, and windy with temperatures ranging from the 20s to 40s. The backcountry experience at Pope Bay provides solitude and opportunities to observe Assateague's natural environment away from developed campgrounds.

Directions

Warning: GPS systems may provide inaccurate information. Access by hiking along the beach or paddling from the Maryland District. All motorized transport of campers or equipment is prohibited. Permits obtained at Maryland District Ranger Station at 6633 Bayberry Drive, Berlin, MD 21811.

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