Where is Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge,Chincoteague, Virginia?

Written by | Updated On: December 03, 2025, 14:30 ET

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is located in Virginia, USA. It lies between Assateague Island and the town of Chincoteague and is situated along the eastern coast on the Atlantic Ocean. The refuge is famous for its wild ponies, sandy beaches, marshes, and diverse bird species.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Location Map,Chincoteague, Virginia

Where is Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Located inChincoteague, Virginia
About Map: The map showing location of Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge in theChincoteague, Virginia in the United States.

Virginia Maps and Info

Virginia MapVirginia County MapMap of Virginia With Cities
Virginia ZipcodesAirports in VirginiaUS Zip code Map
Virginia Area CodesVirginia Blank MapVirginia River Map
US County MapVirginia Physical MapUS States and Capitals Map

Top Attractions Inside Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge

  • Assateague Island Beaches – Sandy beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and observing wild horses.
  • Wild Pony Viewing Areas – Designated spots to safely observe the famous Chincoteague ponies.
  • Beach and Marsh Trails – Hiking and walking trails through dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forests.
  • Visitor Center & Museum – Exhibits on wildlife, habitat conservation, and the history of the refuge.
  • Observation Towers – Elevated platforms for birdwatching and panoramic views of the marshes and bays.
  • Kayaking & Canoeing Routes – Water trails through creeks and marshes for wildlife viewing and exploration.
  • Wildlife Viewing Areas – Excellent locations to see migratory birds, deer, and other native species.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Facts

Official NameChincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
LocationChincoteague Island, Virginia, USA
Latitude & Longitude37.9330° N, 75.3777° W
Total Area~14,000 acres (5,665 hectares)
Established1943
FounderU.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Federal protection under the Migratory Bird Conservation Act)
Managed ByU.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
RegionEastern Shore of Virginia
Address8231 Beach Road, Chincoteague, VA 23336, USA
Zip Code23336
Area Code757
CurrencyUnited States Dollar (USD, $)
Time ZoneEastern Time (ET) – UTC−5 Standard / UTC−4 Daylight Saving
Theme / ConceptWildlife Conservation, Coastal Ecosystems, Migratory Birds, Scenic Beaches
Main FeaturesAssateague Lighthouse - Wild Chincoteague Ponies - Wildlife Loop - Refuge Trails - Pristine Beaches - Marshes & Forests
Famous AttractionsPony Overlook - Assateague Lighthouse - Chincoteague Ponies - Beach Access - Wildlife Viewing
Annual VisitorsOver 1.2 million
Entry Fee TypePaid Entry (Vehicle Pass Required)
Entry Fee Range~$10 per vehicle (1–7 day pass) / Annual Pass available
ActivitiesHiking - Birdwatching - Pony Viewing - Biking - Fishing - Beach Recreation - Photography
Best Time to VisitApril–October (Warm weather & wildlife activity) — July for the famous Pony Swim
Nearby AirportSalisbury Regional Airport (SBY) – 45 miles (72 km)
TransportationPrivate Vehicle - Bike Trails - Walking - Limited Public Transport from Chincoteague
Official Websitehttps://www.fws.gov/refuge/chincoteague

Distances from Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge to Nearby Landmarks

  • Assateague Island Visitor Center – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Tom’s Cove – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Wild Pony Exhibit – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Beebe Ranch – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Chincoteague Island – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Chincoteague Bay – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center – 3 km (1.9 mi)
  • Ocean View Beach – 2 km (1.2 mi)
  • Maryland/Virginia State Line – 50 km (31 mi)
  • Wallops Flight Facility – 20 km (12.4 mi)
  • Assateague Lighthouse – 10 km (6.2 mi)
  • Pocomoke City, MD – 55 km (34 mi)
  • Ocean City, MD – 60 km (37 mi)
  • Virginia Beach, VA – 90 km (56 mi)
  • Fisherman’s Wharf – 6 km (3.7 mi)
  • Chincoteague Pony Swim Viewing Area – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge – 75 km (46.6 mi)
  • Island Nature Trails – 4 km (2.5 mi)
  • Assateague State Park, MD – 5 km (3.1 mi)
  • Oceanfront Boardwalk – 60 km (37 mi)