Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge announces new daily pass

CHINCOTEAGUE, Va. – Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge officials have announced a change in entrance fees as of today, June 11th.

The Refuge says they are bringing back the daily entrance pass, which will cost $10. We’re told this change is to maintain consistency with the Weekly and Annual Passes offered by Assateague Island National Seashore (ASIS) in Maryland. The change comes after seeking and considering public input, including overwhelming requests from visitors and local community members to bring back a Daily Pass.

Despite being in separate states, the two agencies share management responsibilities of recreational lands on the Virginia portion of Assateague Island. Therefore, the two have a reciprocal agreement which allows visitors to use passes issued by both agencies at either side. The Weekly Pass (valid for seven days) is now $25, and Annual Passes (good for one year) cost $45. At Chincoteague, the entrance fee will continue to be waived for passengers of local courtesy shuttles, such as those generally used by hotels and motels. Hikers and cyclists also enter free of charge.

If you have a Federal Duck Stamp ($25), you can access the recreational beach by purchasing the $20 Annual Beach Parking Permit, which makes the combined cost of the permit and stamp equal to the $45 price of a Refuge Annual Pass. Officials say this permit is an expanded amenity recreation free and is required for visitors who hold a Federal Duck Stamp and wish to access the recreational beach at CNWR or ASIS in Maryland.