The Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is one of the largest nature preserves along the Atlantic flyway, attracting hundreds of species of birds, including egrets, herons, geese, and swans, and thousands of migrating ducks. A continuation of the Assateague Island National Seashore across the Maryland border (see above), the refuge contains hundreds of acres of marshland, excellent beaches, and a number of hiking and cycling trails. The refuge visitors center (daily; 757/336-6122) has detailed information on park activities as well as special exhibits on Chincoteague’s famous wild ponies, which can usually be seen from the Woodland Trail that loops south from Beach Road.
South of town at the end of Main Street, just outside the refuge boundary, you can pitch a tent or park an RV at the privately owned Tom’s Cove Campground (757/336-6498).
