| Fires |
Wood and open ground fires are prohibited. Use only charcoal in grills provided, or you may bring a campstove. Dispose of coals in proper receptacles. |
| Cooking Fuels |
No flammables, including cooking fuels are allowed on the ferry. Cooking fuels may be purchased at the concession. |
| Pets |
Pets must be leashed and must not disturb other campers. |
| Sites |
Only marked sites may be used, and tents may not be pitched in vegetation. Trenching, digging, or leveling sites is prohibited. |
| Sanitation |
Dispose of all trash containers, wash dishes only at sink stand, and please leave your site clean. |
| Generators |
Generators and other power equipment are prohibited. |
| Quiet Hours |
Quiet hours are between 10 P.M. and 6 A.M. Loud noise and audio devices are not permitted during quiet hours. |
| Checkout Time |
Please have all your gear off your site by 11 A.M. on the last day of your reservation. |
| Cancellations |
If you have a reservation and cannot arrive by the first day, please call (631) 597-3109. |
| Late Arrivals |
Campers who will be arriving late must contact the campground staff before 4 P.M., or their reservation will be forfeited. |
| No Phone or Fax Reservations |
Reservations will not be accepted via telephone or fax. Campsites may be reserved by filling out the Campsite Reservation Form (PDF). |
| Walk-Ins |
Depending on site availability, visitors without reservations may be able to obtain a site on a first-come, first-serve basis. Upon arrival at Watch Hill, contact the Dock Master's Office to determine site availability. We cannot guarantee that walk-ins will obtain a site. |
| What to Bring |
To make your trip safe and enjoyable, please bring the following items:
wagon or backpack to carry gear from the ferry (the campground is ¼ mile from the ferry dock); extra long tent stakes for use in sand; charcoal or campstove; insect repellent and sunscreen; and a sturdy, animal-proof container such as a cooler for your food. |
| Activities |
Visitors can enjoy a variety of self-guided activities, such as hiking (campground is adjacent to Otis G. Pike Wilderness Area), birdwatching, using the bay and ocean beaches, and canoeing. |
| Ticks |
Ticks, including deer ticks that can carry the bacteria for Lyme Disease, may be quite tiny, as small as the period at the end of this sentence. They live in the vegetation. Protect yourself from contact with ticks by remaining on the boardwalks or beach. Dress in light-colored clothing and tuck your pants into your socks. Use repellent if desired. Always check your body thoroughly after possible exposure. More information about identifying and protecting yourself against ticks is available at the ranger station. |
| Poison Ivy |
Poison ivy is plentiful on Fire Island. Stay on the boardwalk trails and established dune crossings to avoid contact with this three-leafed plant. If you do touch poison ivy, wash with soap and water immediately to help prevent the rash. |
| Sunscreen |
Sunscreen is recommended, even on overcast days. |
| Mosquitoes |
Mosquitoes, flies and other biting insects can be abundant during warm weather. Protect yourself with repellent and adequate clothing. |
| Wildlife |
Feeding or harassing wildlife is illegal. It interferes with natural processes and teaches wild animals unsafe behaviors. Keep foods protected from animals. Report any wildlife problems to a Ranger. |
| In Case of An Emergency |
Report any emergency to a Ranger or lifeguard. First aid stations are located at the dune station and visitor center. |