General Regulations

The Following Activities Are PERMITTED

Boats
Permitted to land on designated areas on Toms Cove Hook from September 1 through March 14 or as otherwise posted. Refuge impoundments are closed to all boats and flotation devices. Click here for Boat Landing Map (PDF - 142 KB)

Bicycles
Permitted on trails and roads unless otherwise posted. Click here for Trail Map.
(PDF - 2.63 MB)

Fishing/crabbing/shell fishing
Permitted in designated areas of Toms Cove and in designated areas of Swan Cove adjacent to Toms Cove. State fishing license is not required; however, state regulations and creel limits are enforced. Traps, posts and hand lines must be attended at all times.

Surf Fishing
A saltwater license is required for surf fishing on the refuge. Fishing is prohibited on life guarded beaches. An overnight fishing permit is required to stay after hours. Inquire at the Toms Cove Visitor Center.

Swimming
Permitted along the oceanfront and in designated areas of Toms Cove.

Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is only permitted in the Oversand Vehicle Zone up to the Fish Factory Ruins. Click here for map.
(PDF - 176 KB)

Mopeds and Motorized Scooters
Permitted on Beach Road only.

Over Sand Vehicle (OSV) Use
Oversand vehicle zones are posted and maps are available at the Chincoteague Refuge Visitor Center. A fee is charged for all permits. Vehicle specifications and equipment requirements are strictly enforced. Limits are places on the number of vehicles allowed on the beach at any one time. Temporary closures may occur due to public safety, as well as wildlife concerns and use of the beachfront by shorebirds. For more information click here.


The Following Activities Are PROHITBITED

Fires/Fireworks
Open fires are prohibited except as authorized by special beach party permits which are available from the National Park Service, Assateague Island National Seashore, at Toms Cove Visitor Center. Possession or discharge of fireworks or explosive devices is prohibited.

Skateboards/roller skates/in-line skates
Use prohibited on refuge.

Camping
Prohibited on Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Permits for back country sites in Maryland are available from the National Park Service, Assateague Island National Seashore, at Toms Cove Visitor Center.

Pets
Prohibited, even in your vehicle.

Alcohol
Use of alcohol beverages is prohibited. Entering or remaining on the refuge while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances is prohibited.

Disturbing or collecting plants and animals (dead or alive), or artifacts
Strictly prohibited. Leave the area as you found it for others to enjoy. Please limit the number of unoccupied shells collected to one gallon or less per person per day. Shells collected may not be sold or otherwise be used for commercial purposes.

Feeding or harassing wildlife
Strictly prohibited. Feeding animals causes them to lose their fear of humans and makes them more vulnerable to vehicular traffic. Human food also causes digestive problems. Please help keep the animals healthy and safe.