Back Country Camping - State Line

About

Back Country Camping - State Line is one of two oceanside backcountry sites at Assateague Island National Seashore, positioned at the Maryland-Virginia boundary in the open inner-dunes. The site sits adjacent to the Over Sand Vehicle zone and is marked by boundary posts. Reaching State Line requires a hike along the beach or a paddle approach; motorized transport of campers or equipment is prohibited. This primitive camping experience offers a chemical toilet and picnic table but no potable water. Campers should bring at least one gallon of water per person per day. Fires are permitted only on the beach below the high tide line using dead and down wood collected on site. All trash must be packed out, and glass bottles are prohibited. Permits cost $10 per person for ages 16 and older, valid for up to 7 days. They are issued exclusively at the Maryland Ranger Station on a first-come, first-served basis; no reservations are accepted. All party members must be present before permits are issued, with a cutoff time of 4 hours before sunset. A vehicle entrance fee of $25 also applies. Pets are not allowed at any backcountry site.

Directions

GPS units may provide inaccurate directions. From the Maryland Ranger Station, obtain your permit and hike south along the oceanside beach to reach State Line campsite at the Maryland-Virginia boundary. The permit cutoff is 4 hours before sunset.