Assateague Island National Seashore lies on a long, narrow barrier island that straddles the coasts of Virginia and Maryland. The island is a peaceful, windswept sanctuary to many species of wildlife, none more famous than the wild pony population. According to legend, these shaggy, sturdy animals survived the shipwreck of a Spanish galleon in the 1600s and then swam ashore to Assateague. Other stories relate that colonial farmers turned their livestock out to graze on the island to avoid livestock tariffs.
The ponies now share Assateague with an assortment of wildlife, including the unusual sika deer that makes its home in the island's pine forests. The island is also known for its lovely beaches and hiking trails that allow for plenty of exploring.
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Assateague Island National Seashore
Address: 8586 Beach Rd., Chincoteague, VA
Phone: 757/336-6577
Hours of Operation: Jan. - Mar. and Nov. - Dec., 6 a.m. - 6 p.m., Apr. and Oct. 6 a.m. - 8 p.m., May - Sept. 5 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Admission: $10 per vehicle
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Learn more about family vacations:
- Family Vacations: Learn about hundreds of family vacations in destinations all over North America.
- Virginia State Guide: Virginia is just a short trip from Washington, D.C. Learn more about the many attractions in Virginia.
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