The Atkinson Island WMA is the northern portion of Atkinson Island, a long, narrow island in the very northern tip of Galveston Bay on the edge of Harris and Chambers County. The island, south of Hogg Island, runs north and south and the island south of the WMA is actively being used for marsh creation by the local port authority. The land for Atkinson Island WMA was donated by Conoco, Inc. as a wildlife preserve area.

Wildlife includes shore and wading birds, raccoons and rattlesnakes. Because it is a preserve, hunting is not permitted in Atkinson Island WMA. There is 40 acres of woodlot composed of mainly hackberry and yaupon. Another 90 acres segment is brackish marsh and then 20 acres is a spoils site left from dredging the channel. Visitors will need either a Limited Public Use permit #175 or an Annual Public Hunting permit to access the WMA. Visitors are requested to not disturb nesting shorebirds in spring and summer. Visitation is restricted to boat access only.

You can purchase permits online or at any retailer that sell state hunting or fishing license. If purchased online a representation of receipt is acceptable until official printer version is available.

Many Texas Wildlife Management Areas are open for activities such as biking, primitive camping, birding, fishing, hiking, equestrian activities, driving tours, and wildlife viewing.

Many times you need minimally a Texas Limited Public Use Permit (LPU - #175). You can purchase a Limited Public Use Permit or Annual Public Hunting Permit at any location that sells hunting licenses or at the Texas License Connection. If purchased online a representation of receipt is acceptable until official printer version has been mailed to you. In some cases it's not obvious when you need a permit for a Texas Wildlife Management Area so it might be better to be safe, because Texas game wardens do check for such permits.