Fire Island National Seashore - Camping

Wilderness Area Backcountry Camping

Open
Open All Year

Details
Backcountry camping (backpacking) is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness area, but you must be prepared for ticks, mosquitoes and heat if you intend to camp during the summer. A required permit can be obtained from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at the Watch Hill Visitor Center (631-597-6455; May 12 to mid-October) or Wilderness Visitor Center (631-281-3010; mid-May through December) when staffed. Camping is limited to no more than three groups of 4 in the eastern section and six groups of 4 in the western section. Campers must hike at least 1½ miles into the wilderness from the Wilderness Visitor Center at Smith Point or 1 mile from the Watch Hill Ranger Station. Bring drinking water & all necessary supplies, and carry out all garbage. Open fires are prohibited; use a backcountry stove for cooking. Campsites must be north of the primary dune, not in sight of the beach, in a sandy area with no vegetation, and at least one mile inside the wilderness boundary. There are limited dune crossings from the wilderness to the beach. Dogs and other pets are not allowed during plover nesting season: March 1 - Labor Day; at other times they are permitted but must be on a 6" leash at all times. Take safety precautions for ticks and mosquitoes. Plan for quickly changing weather conditions. Bury human waste in a hole 300 feet from water and 6" from land surface; no trenches allowed. Leave no trace of your campsite: take only pictures.