Back Country Camping-State Line Campground

Back Country Camping-State Line Campground offers a rare and rugged opportunity for Maryland residents to experience the coastal wilderness of Assateague Island National Seashore. This primitive destination is not your typical drive-in facility; it is a true backcountry experience designed for those who wish to leave the modern world behind. Located within the Maryland district of the island, State Line Campground is situated just north of the border between Maryland and Virginia. It provides a unique setting where the Atlantic Ocean meets the inner-dunes, offering a landscape defined by shifting sands, salt spray, and the iconic wild horses that roam freely across the island.

For Marylanders looking to test their outdoor skills, this site represents the pinnacle of "leave no trace" camping in the region. There are no paved roads, no electrical hookups, and no running water. Instead, campers find a quiet, secluded environment where the sound of crashing waves serves as the only soundtrack. Because it is part of the National Park Service system, the area is meticulously managed to preserve its natural state. This means that while the amenities are minimal, the ecological integrity of the barrier island remains intact, providing a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a profound sense of solitude for those who make the journey.

Location and accessibility are the primary factors that define the State Line Campground experience. To reach this remote site, campers must embark on a significant trek from the Maryland Ranger Station. Depending on the chosen route, the hike can range from 12 to 13 miles one way. The terrain consists of soft sand and open dunes, making the journey physically demanding. Accessibility is strictly limited to foot traffic or hand-paddled watercraft; motorized vehicles and bicycles are prohibited from transporting camping gear to the site. However, for those with mobility considerations, the park does maintain wheelchair-accessible parking lots and restrooms at the primary Ranger Station where permits are issued, ensuring that the initial planning phases are inclusive for all visitors.

The services offered at State Line Campground are focused on providing only the most essential infrastructure for safety and sanitation. Unlike developed campgrounds with camp stores and Wi-Fi, the services here are primitive. Every piece of equipment, including all drinking water, must be carried in by the campers themselves. The National Park Service recommends a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day to combat the intense sun and wind exposure common on the barrier island.

• Designated tent sites located in the open inner-dune areas.
• A shared chemical toilet (vault toilet) located near the campsite boundaries.
• Shared picnic tables provided for food preparation and group seating.
• Backcountry permit registration handled exclusively at the Maryland Ranger Station.
• Emergency 9-1-1 only phone located at the Ranger Station for emergency coordination.
• Detailed orientation and safety briefings provided by park rangers upon permit issuance.
• On-site boundary posts to clearly mark the permitted camping area.

Features and highlights of the State Line site revolve around the raw beauty of Assateague Island. One of the most significant highlights is the opportunity to witness the island's famous feral horses in their natural habitat. While campers must maintain a safe distance of at least 40 feet from all wildlife, it is not uncommon to see these majestic animals grazing near the dunes at dawn or dusk. The site’s position on the "State Line" also allows hikers to easily explore the boundary between Maryland and Virginia, witnessing how the landscape changes across the political border.

• Oceanside camping within earshot of the Atlantic surf.
• Unparalleled stargazing opportunities due to the lack of light pollution on the remote island.
• Proximity to the Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) zone for beachcombing and surf fishing.
• Unique birdwatching opportunities along the Atlantic Flyway.
• Access to miles of pristine, undeveloped beach north of the Virginia line.
• A "good for kids" environment for older children who are experienced in hiking and outdoor survival.
• A pet-free zone to ensure the safety of local wildlife and the tranquility of the backcountry.

For those ready to undertake the challenge, obtaining the proper documentation is the first step. Backcountry permits for State Line Campground are not available for online reservation; they are issued on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of your trip. This policy ensures that campers are fully aware of current weather conditions and tides before heading into the dunes. All members of the camping party must be present at the Ranger Station for the permit to be issued.

• Address: Maryland Ranger Station, Assateague Island National Seashore, Berlin, MD 21811, USA
• Phone: (410) 641-1441 (General Park Information)
• Permit Office: Located at the Ranger Station just inside the Maryland park entrance.
• Permit Fee: Generally $10 per person for a 7-day permit (plus park entrance fee).

What is worth choosing when it comes to State Line Campground is the sheer authenticity of the experience. For Maryland outdoor enthusiasts who feel that modern campgrounds have become too crowded or "citified," State Line offers the antidote. It is one of the few places on the East Coast where you can truly be alone with the ocean. The lack of amenities is not a drawback but a feature, as it limits the number of visitors and ensures that those who do make the trip are dedicated to the spirit of wilderness camping.

Furthermore, the physical challenge of the hike makes reaching the state line a badge of honor for many local backpackers. The sense of accomplishment that comes from carrying everything you need for survival over 12 miles of sand is a reward in itself. By choosing State Line, you are opting for an adventure that requires careful planning, physical endurance, and a deep respect for the environment. It is a destination that rewards the prepared camper with a front-row seat to the most beautiful and untamed coastal scenery that Maryland has to offer.