Assateague State Park is Maryland's only oceanfront park. It is located on Assateague Island, a barrier island bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and the Sinepuxent Bay on the west. Its two miles of ocean beaches offer swimming, beachcombing, sunbathing, surfing and fishing. The bayside offers visitors the chance to explore secluded coves by canoe or kayak. The marsh areas have a variety of wildlife, including deer, waterfowl and feral horses.
Ocean City is approximately nine miles north of the park and can be seen from the island.
The historic town of Berlin is less than eight miles away. Quaint shops, an historic hotel, and small restaurants give visitors the chance to step back in time. Berlin was the filming location for two major motion pictures, Runaway Bride and Tuck Everlasting.
Boating
If you wish to launch a boat, the service charge is $10.00 for in-state residents and $12 for out-of-state residents, and covers the cost of parking. Both charges are paid through a self-registration system.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted on the beach or at our marina.
Surf fishing on the beach is allowed at the State Park as long as it is done outside of the lifeguarded areas. This policy is the same at the National Park.
Bay fishing is allowed at the marina piers and from boats in the designated areas of the Bay.
Clamming is allowed at the State Park and at the National Park in different areas of the bay.
Fishing licenses are required in the Sinepuxent Bay as well as the Atlantic Ocean.
Regulations vary according to the type of catch. Please refer to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fishing Guide for state regulations.
The only fish cleaning station is at the marina; however, it is very basic and there is no running water. Please do not use the restrooms to clean fish.
Fishing the Surf in the Day Use/Beach Area
Standard parking charges apply – in-season, $4.00 per person for Maryland residents, $6.00 per person for non-residents.
In the off-season, the cost is $3.00 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $5 per vehicle for out-of-state, paid through a self-registration system.
Fishing at the Marina Pier
The cost is $3.00 per vehicle for Maryland residents and $5.00 per vehicle for out-of-state.
