Behind the dunes, the island's forests and bayside marshes invite exploration. Now and then a wild pony wanders into view. Assateague Island National Seashore is administered to provide for recreational use and enjoyment consistent with the maintenance and perpetuation of the seashore's natural communities. Together, these agencies hold in trust a priceless seashore heritage of wildlands, wildlife, and outdoor recreation. The National Park Service operates visitor centers serving both the Maryland and Virginia ends of the island.
Visitor centers are the places to find out about naturalist activities , among other things.
A naturalist will answer your questions. The State of Maryland owns 680 acres of Assateague Island that it operates as a state park its beach offers separate swimming, surf fishing, and surf boarding areas. Ask about these at the state park entrance. Bathhouses, a bait and a tackle shop, and food service facilities are open in summer, when lifeguards protect the beach. Assateague State Park.