Back Country Camping-State Line Campground

For Marylanders with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for untouched natural landscapes, Back Country Camping at State Line Campground offers an extraordinary opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the wild beauty of Assateague Island National Seashore. This isn't your typical drive-up campground with all the bells and whistles; State Line is a primitive, hike-in or paddle-in site designed for those who seek genuine solitude and an unfiltered connection with nature. It's a place where the rustle of the sea grass, the calls of shorebirds, and the distant neighing of wild horses form the soundtrack to your escape from the everyday.

State Line Campground, like other backcountry sites on Assateague Island, provides a minimalist camping experience that encourages self-sufficiency and a profound respect for the environment. It's a destination for the prepared camper, ready to carry in all necessities and leave no trace behind. As one seasoned visitor noted while staying at nearby Pope Bay, the experience requires preparation, emphasizing the need for "enough food and water to stay." However, the reward is immense: clean, well-maintained campsites and outhouses, and an unparalleled chance to get "up close and personal with wildlife." This is where Maryland's stunning coastal wilderness truly shines, offering a unique blend of rugged beauty and peaceful isolation.

Whether you're embarking on a challenging kayak tour of the Assateague Back Country or trekking in with your gear, State Line Campground promises an unforgettable adventure. It's an ideal spot for those looking to unplug, recharge, and create lasting memories surrounded by the raw, untamed allure of one of Maryland's most iconic natural treasures.

Back Country Camping - State Line Campground is located within Assateague Island National Seashore, specifically on the Maryland side of the island. While a precise street address is not applicable for a backcountry site, its location is significant for accessibility. State Line Campground is one of several primitive campsites in the Assateague backcountry, accessible only by foot or by watercraft.

To reach State Line Campground, campers typically begin their journey from the main parking areas on the Maryland side of Assateague Island. For hikers, the campsite is located several miles south of the main visitor areas, requiring a significant trek along designated trails. For those arriving by canoe or kayak, State Line is accessible from various bayside launch points, offering a unique paddle-in experience across the calm waters of the Sinepuxent Bay. Common launch points include Old Ferry Landing or the Bayside Picnic Area, where vehicles can be parked (with a valid backcountry permit parking tag). It is crucial to understand that no motorized vehicle access is permitted directly to the backcountry campsites, including those with Over-Sand Vehicle (OSV) permits, preserving the pristine nature of the area.

All backcountry campers must obtain a permit from the Ranger Station in Maryland before proceeding to their site. Due to the remote nature and the time it takes to reach the campsite, check-in procedures are strict, often requiring campers to depart with enough daylight to arrive at their site before sunset. While cell service "is available," as noted by a reviewer, and a map and GPS are recommended, the remote setting still provides an invaluable sense of escape from modern distractions. This deliberate inaccessibility ensures that State Line Campground remains a tranquil sanctuary for those truly seeking a wilderness experience.

Services Offered:

• Primitive Campsites: State Line offers designated primitive tent camping areas, ensuring a natural, undeveloped setting.
• Picnic Tables: Each backcountry campsite is typically equipped with a picnic table for convenience.
• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are available for responsible campfires, adhering to Leave No Trace principles.
• Toilets: "Very clean and well taken care of outhouses" (likely vault or composting toilets) are provided, a welcome amenity in a primitive setting.
• No Water or Electricity: Campers must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying in all necessary drinking water (recommended 1 gallon per person per day) and power sources.
• Permit System: A mandatory permit system, obtained at the Ranger Station, regulates access to preserve the environment and manage visitor numbers.
• Emergency Services Access: While direct cell service might be spotty, an emergency 9-1-1 Only phone is usually available at the main Ranger Station for critical situations.

Features / Highlights:

• True Wilderness Experience: State Line provides an authentic backcountry camping adventure, perfect for those who want to disconnect and embrace nature in its purest form.
• Close-Up Wildlife Encounters: As noted by a reviewer, campers should "Be prepared to get up close and personal with wildlife." This includes the famous wild horses, various bird species, and other native animals.
• Clean and Well-Maintained: Despite being primitive, the campsites and outhouses are "very clean and well taken care of," contributing to a more comfortable stay.
• Hiking and Paddling Access: The site's hike-in or paddle-in accessibility promotes active outdoor pursuits, with opportunities for further exploration on the island's trails and waterways.
• Scenic Bay and Ocean Views: Located within Assateague Island National Seashore, campers have access to both the tranquil bayside and the dynamic ocean beaches.
• Unplugged Retreat: Though cell service might be available, the remote nature encourages a digital detox, allowing for greater relaxation and appreciation of the surroundings.
• Stargazing Opportunities: Far from urban light pollution, the night skies over Assateague are often spectacular, perfect for astronomy enthusiasts.
• Secluded Environment: The effort required to reach the campsite ensures a quieter, more isolated experience compared to developed campgrounds.
• Leave No Trace Principles: The park actively promotes and requires adherence to Leave No Trace ethics, ensuring the preservation of this unique natural area for future generations.

Back Country Camping at State Line Campground, as part of Assateague Island National Seashore, operates under a permit and fee structure typical of national park backcountry systems. It does not offer commercial "promotions or special offers" in the traditional sense, as its value lies in providing access to a unique and protected wilderness experience at an affordable rate.

The backcountry camping permit for Assateague Island National Seashore is typically $10 per person (ages 16 and older) for a 7-day permit. In addition to this, a park entrance fee per vehicle is also required for access to Assateague Island National Seashore. All fees are paid, and permits must be obtained exclusively at the Ranger Station in Maryland. It is highly recommended to check the official National Park Service website for Assateague Island National Seashore or contact them directly for the most current fee schedules, as these can be subject to change. The overall cost remains very reasonable for the profound wilderness experience offered.

Contact Information:

Address: Maryland, USA (within Assateague Island National Seashore)

The primary contact for Back Country Camping at State Line Campground, and for all backcountry permits and information for the Maryland side of Assateague Island National Seashore, is the Ranger Station.

Phone: (410) 641-1441 (This is the general park information line, from which you can inquire specifically about backcountry camping permits and conditions.)

For detailed information, up-to-date permit requirements, current advisories, and check-in procedures, it is essential to consult the official Assateague Island National Seashore website (nps.gov/asis) or call the Ranger Station directly. Planning is crucial for a safe and enjoyable primitive camping trip.

Back Country Camping at State Line Campground is an ideal destination for Maryland locals who are seasoned outdoor enthusiasts or those looking to expand their camping horizons beyond traditional sites. For residents craving a profound connection with nature and an escape from modern distractions, this primitive campsite offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly unplug and embrace self-sufficiency. Its location within the iconic Assateague Island National Seashore provides the unique thrill of encountering wild horses and exploring diverse coastal ecosystems, all within a relatively short distance from many Maryland communities.

The pristine condition of the campsites and outhouses, coupled with the sense of accomplishment from hiking or paddling to your destination, adds to the rewarding experience. While it demands preparation and a willingness to forgo some comforts, the peace, solitude, and intimate wildlife encounters make it a truly unforgettable local adventure. For Marylanders seeking to challenge themselves and immerse in the untamed beauty of their state's coastline, State Line Campground offers a truly authentic and deeply satisfying wilderness retreat.