Camping at Watch Hill Fire Island Campground

Location and Access

Watch Hill campground is located on Fire Island, a barrier island off the south shore of Long Island in New York. Access to Fire Island is generally by boat, with ferry service available from the mainland. There is no direct vehicle access to the campgrounds. Visitors usually leave their cars in one of the mainland parking lots and take a ferry to Watch Hill.

Available Facilities

The campground provides basic facilities including restrooms with showers, water faucets, and a camp store where visitors can buy food, firewood, and other camping supplies. There are also picnic tables and grills available for campers.

Campsite Information

• Tent sites: These are primarily for tent camping, with each site having space for a tent and a sandy base.
• Group sites: Larger sites are available for coordinated group camping.
• Amenities: Each site typically comes with a picnic table and a fire ring.

Recreational Activities

• Beach: Watch Hill has a beautiful beach area for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
• Hiking: There are trails for nature walks and bird watching within the National Seashore.
• Fishing: Surf fishing is a popular activity, but be sure to check for any required permits.
• Marina: Boaters have access to slips and moorings at the Watch Hill Marina.
• Nature/Visitor Center: Educational programs about the barrier island ecosystem are often available.

Reservations and Fees

Advance reservations are typically recommended, especially during the peak summer months. Reservations can be made through the National Park Service's reservation system. There is a fee for camping, and rates can vary depending on the type of site and the time of year.

Regulations and Safety

• Pets: Pets are usually not permitted in order to protect local wildlife.
• Fires: Campfires are often restricted to fire rings and subject to local fire advisories.
• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather, including storms and high winds that are common on barrier islands.
• Ticks: Tick-borne diseases can be a risk, so take precautions to avoid tick bites.

Environmental Preservation

Fire Island is part of the National Seashore and visitors are expected to follow Leave No Trace principles. This includes packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and preserving the natural environment.

Transportation within Fire Island

As there are no roads for vehicles, transportation on the island is primarily on foot or by bicycle. Some areas may also allow for travel by cart.

Seasonal Information

Watch Hill campground typically operates from May through Columbus Day weekend, with services including the ferry and concession operations also running seasonally. Outside of the main season, facilities may be closed and services are limited.

Please note that information is subject to change, so it's a good idea to check with the National Park Service or local authorities for the latest details before planning your trip.