Assateague Island — Assateague Island is a treasured natural refuge, famous for its wild horses, pristine beaches, and fragile ecosystems. As summer visitors flock to the island, officials are reminding everyone of the importance of protecting this unique environment by following the Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines encourage visitors to plan ahead and prepare for changing weather, follow marked trails and camp only in designated areas, and properly dispose of all waste. Protecting water sources, like the island’s marshes and shorelines, is a priority, so campers are urged to stay at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams.
Officials emphasize the need to leave everything as found. This means not disturbing the wild horses or other wildlife, avoiding picking plants or moving rocks, and steering clear of historic sites. Fires, where allowed, should be small and limited to established fire rings to prevent lasting damage to the landscape.
Respect for wildlife is also crucial. Visitors should observe animals from a distance and never feed them, as feeding can harm their health and alter natural behaviors. Proper food storage and controlling pets are also key to protecting both animals and people.
Finally, Assateague officials ask all visitors to be considerate of others by keeping noise levels down, yielding on trails, and camping away from busy areas to preserve the peaceful atmosphere that makes Assateague Island so special. Following these principles helps ensure Assateague Island remains a beautiful and wild place for generations to come.
