Back Country Camping - Pope Bay
Open for first-come, first-served permits at the Maryland Ranger Station. No advance reservations. Closed during firearm hunting seasons (dates typically in October through early January). No potable water; campers must pack in water and pack out all trash.
Beach Hazards Statement issued October 10 at 3:20PM EDT until October 11 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Wakefield VA
* WHAT...For the High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 7 to 8 feet expected in the surf zone. For the Beach Hazards Statement, a high risk of rip currents is expected. * WHERE...Maryland Beaches. * WHEN...For the High Surf Advisory, from 6 AM to 6 PM EDT Sunday. For the Beach Hazards Statement, from Sunday morning through Sunday evening. * IMPACTS...Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.
High Surf Advisory issued October 10 at 3:20PM EDT until October 11 at 6:00PM EDT by NWS Wakefield VA
* WHAT...For the High Surf Advisory, large breaking waves of 7 to 8 feet expected in the surf zone. For the Beach Hazards Statement, a high risk of rip currents is expected. * WHERE...Maryland Beaches. * WHEN...For the High Surf Advisory, from 6 AM to 6 PM EDT Sunday. For the Beach Hazards Statement, from Sunday morning through Sunday evening. * IMPACTS...Dangerous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion.
About
Pope Bay offers a secluded backcountry camping experience on the bayside of Assateague Island National Seashore. Located in a forested area with limited shade, this primitive site is reached by hiking or paddling and provides a fire ring, picnic table, and chemical toilet. The site can accommodate groups of up to 25 people. Permits cost $10 per person for ages 16 and older, plus the standard $25 vehicle entrance fee. Permits must be obtained in person at the Maryland District Ranger Station on a first-come, first-served basis; no advance reservations are accepted. All members of your party must be present before the permit will be issued. Campers must depart at least 4 hours before sunset. Pets are prohibited at all backcountry sites. Glass bottles are not allowed, and all trash must be packed out. Fires are permitted only in the designated fire ring, using dead and down wood collected on site or firewood purchased locally (no out-of-state firewood). The site closes during firearm hunting seasons, typically in October, November, December, and January.
Directions
Obtain your permit at the Maryland District Ranger Station at 6633 Bayberry Drive, Berlin, MD 21811. GPS systems may provide inaccurate directions; follow official NPS signage. Access to the campsite is by hiking or paddling only.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| asis_information@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (410) 641-1441 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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