Assateague Island, MD

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland

Paddle with the Ponies and Sleep under the Pines
Fully-outfitted kayak camping

Offered spring and fall

Experience a wild barrier island as few visitors do on a Burnham Guides kayak camping expedition into the backcountry of Assateague National Seashore. Less than three hours from D.C. on Maryland's coast, this national treasure is famous for its wild horses and white sand beaches. The 37-mile-long barrier island also offers paddling through bayside marshes, hiking in maritime forests, and remote backcountry camping.

Meeting the first day at the National Park for dinner and a night at basecamp allows for instruction/orientation to sea kayaking as needed. Next morning we launch on the bayside of the island, so we’re never out in the open ocean. We paddle along bayside marshes, often sighting wild ponies, to backcountry campsites with chemical toilets and picnic tables. A short walk from camp leads to the wild Atlantic ocean beach.

The 4-day/3-night trip is typically about 8-10 miles of paddling per day and is our most popular. Longer trips for more advanced paddlers can be arranged, including a 5-day day expedition along the entire island, landing in Chincoteague, VA.

We take care of all the details for you, from quality sea kayaks and camping gear to healthy meals, and unmatched guiding services.