Two Names, One Island: Assateague Island is divided between Maryland and Virginia, with each state having a different name for it.
Feral Horses: Both states are home to wild horses, but they're officially known as "mustangs" in Maryland and "ponies" in Virginia.
Spanish Origins: The horses can trace their ancestry back to a Spanish galleon that sank centuries ago.
Three Distinct Areas: The island is divided into three sections: Assateague State Park, Assateague Island National Seashore, and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge.
Camping and Beaches: All three areas offer camping, beaches, and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Pony Spotting: The Assateague Island National Seashore is the best place to see wild horses.
Wildlife Refuge: The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is ideal for birdwatching and exploring marshlands.
Pony Penning: The annual pony penning carnival in Chincoteague is a unique event where the ponies are rounded up for a fun-filled parade.
Rules to Follow: Visitors are encouraged to maintain a distance from the horses and avoid feeding them to protect their health.