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 and out about naturalist activities among other things.
A naturalist will answer your questions. Assateague State Park . The State of Maryland owns 660 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.