Camping

Sometimes a day trip to the seashore just isn’t enough! Taking in a sunset, falling asleep under the stars, and waking to the sound of crashing waves is an immersive way to connect with the seashore landscape and create lasting memories with friends and family. Ready to pack up your tent and go on a seaside adventure? Read on to learn about the two camping options offered at Fire Island National Seashore and tips on how to have a pleasant and successful camping trip!

Nearby Campgrounds outside Fire Island National Seashore

Smith Point County Park

Trailer and tent camping is available at Smith Point County Park, which is located east of the Otis Pike Wilderness Area. Smith Point is reachable by personal vehicle. Call 631-852-1340 or visit their website for more information.

Other Campgrounds

There are other camping options a short drive from Fire Island that are managed by New York State or Suffolk County. See their camping websites below for more information:

New York State Parks Campgrounds
Suffolk County Parks Campgrounds

Tips for a fun and safe camping trip

• Be weather-ready. Check an extended weather forecast before your trip and be prepared for fast-changing conditions.
• Plan your ferry ride. If you’re taking the ferry, check the ferry schedule to plan your arrival and departure times.
• No campfires. Open ground fires are prohibited – bring a camp stove or use grills in campground for cooking.
• Keep food safe from critters. Secure your food and clean up after cooking– animals are curious and are attracted to food smells. Be sure to secure your food in a cooler or storage box and clean up after cooking.
• Plan to carry in your supplies. Campers will have to carry in all supplies and gear some distance to reach the Watch Hill campground (0.3 miles) or backcountry camping zones (1-2 miles or more). Wagons are subject to ferry freight fees. Wagons are a poor option for lugging supplies over beach sand and are prohibited in the backcountry. Backcountry campers should haul their gear in a backpack and carry additional water jugs by hand.
• Be prepared for mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance for Fire Island campers from late spring until late fall. They are prevalent in areas north of the primary dune during warm-weather months, hatching in cycles that relate to moon phase. Campers from late-June until the end of October should plan to encounter mosquitoes and prepare accordingly. Campers can take precautions by safely applying insect repellents, wearing bug net garments, covering bare skin, and avoiding outdoor activities during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Learn more about avoiding mosquitoes.
• Avoid poison ivy. Poison ivy is prevalent in vegetation between the ocean-facing dunes and the bay-side marshes. Stay on paths and out of brushy areas. Learn more about avoiding poison ivy.
• Check for ticks. Ticks can be found in vegetation throughout Fire Island. Learn to identify ticks and perform daily checks. Learn more about avoiding ticks.
• Protect yourself from the sun. There is little shade found in the Watch Hill campground or in the wilderness backcountry. Campers should wear hats, cover arms and legs, and regularly apply sunscreen. Learn more about sun protection.

More Information

Safety First – Ensure a safe visit to Fire Island National Seashore
Otis Pike Wilderness Backcountry Camping Information
General information on Backcountry Camping
General Information on Camping