If you’re planning to visit Assateague Island, one of the first decisions you’ll make is where to stay. While camping isn’t permitted on the Virginia side of Assateague near Chincoteague, there are several outstanding campgrounds just minutes away that provide easy access to the beach, wildlife refuge, and the island’s famous wild ponies.
Whether you’re traveling in a large motorhome, towing a camper, pitching a tent, or looking for a luxury glamping experience, you’ll find a campground that fits your style and budget.
This guide compares the best campgrounds near Assateague Island so you can choose the one that’s right for your vacation.
Quick Answer
The most popular campgrounds near Assateague Island include Tom’s Cove Park, Chincoteague Bay RV Resort & Cottages, Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island, and Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday. Each offers a different experience, from waterfront RV sites and family activities to glamping accommodations and traditional tent camping.
Campground Comparison
| Campground | Best For | RV Sites | Tents | Cabins / Glamping | Waterfront |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tom’s Cove Park | Classic Chincoteague camping | ✔ | Limited | No | ✔ |
| Chincoteague Bay RV Resort | Luxury RV & glamping | ✔ | No | ✔ | ✔ |
| Jellystone Park | Families with children | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | No |
| Tall Pines KOA | Traditional camping | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | Some sites |
1. Tom’s Cove Park
Tom’s Cove Park has welcomed campers for decades and remains one of the closest campgrounds to Assateague Beach and the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Waterfront RV sites, fishing, boating, and marina access make it especially popular with outdoor enthusiasts.
- Waterfront RV sites
- Swimming pool
- Fishing pier
- Boat marina
- Camp store
- Close to Assateague Beach
2. Chincoteague Bay RV Resort & Cottages
If you’re looking for a more upscale camping experience, Chincoteague Bay RV Resort combines full-hookup RV sites with waterfront cottages and luxury safari tents. The resort-style amenities make it an excellent choice for couples, retirees, and travelers who enjoy a few extra comforts.
- Luxury RV sites
- Glamping tents
- Cottages
- Infinity-style pool
- Fishing pier
- Bayfront promenade
3. Jellystone Park Chincoteague Island
Families love Jellystone because there’s almost always something happening. Between organized activities, playgrounds, pools, and themed weekends, children stay entertained even when you’re not at the beach.
- Tent camping
- RV sites
- Cabins
- Safari tents
- Jump pad
- Playground
- Dog park
4. Tall Pines / Chesapeake Bay KOA Holiday
Located about 30 minutes north of Chincoteague, Tall Pines KOA provides a quieter wooded setting while still offering convenient access to Assateague and Chincoteague.
- Large RV sites
- Tent sites
- Cabins
- Pool
- Planned activities
- Chesapeake Bay waterfront
Which Campground Is Best?
Best for Families
Jellystone Park offers the most activities for children.
Best for Waterfront Views
Tom’s Cove Park and Chincoteague Bay RV Resort.
Best Luxury Camping
Chincoteague Bay RV Resort’s safari tents and cottages.
Best Traditional Camping
Tom’s Cove and Tall Pines KOA.
Best for RV Travelers
All four campgrounds accommodate RVs, although Chincoteague Bay RV Resort offers the most upscale experience.
Things to Do Near the Campgrounds
- Visit Assateague Beach
- Bike through Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
- Climb the Assateague Lighthouse
- Take a narrated wild pony boat tour
- Go fishing or crabbing
- Explore downtown Chincoteague
- Watch for bald eagles and dolphins
Many visitors spend the morning at Assateague Beach before joining Barnacle Bill’s Wild Pony Boat Tour in the afternoon. Seeing the islands from the water offers an entirely different perspective and provides access to remote marshes where wild ponies and other wildlife are often found.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which campground is closest to Assateague Beach?
Tom’s Cove Park is among the closest private campgrounds to the Virginia entrance of Assateague Island.
Can I tent camp near Assateague?
Yes. Jellystone Park and Tall Pines KOA both offer traditional tent camping.
Can I camp on Assateague itself?
Only on the Maryland side. Overnight camping is not allowed in the Virginia section near Chincoteague.
Do any campgrounds have glamping?
Yes. Chincoteague Bay RV Resort and Jellystone Park both offer glamping accommodations.
