Fire Island National Seashore sits on a barrier island off the southern shore of Long Island, with camping areas positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and Great South Bay. The narrow island stretches approximately 32 miles long but averages only a quarter-mile wide, creating a distinctive camping environment where ocean sounds are nearly always audible. Both established and backcountry camping options require ferry transportation, with no road access connecting to mainland Long Island.
What to do
Beach exploration: Watch Hill Fire Island Campground provides direct access to miles of undeveloped Atlantic Ocean shoreline. "Amazing, your own ocean and beach! You are not quite roughing it as there are showers and running water at the Watchhill campground," notes Megan B.
Morning birdwatching: The area between the dunes and bay attracts diverse bird species, especially during migration seasons. "Birdsong in the morning and the sound of the waves" is highlighted by Igor K. as part of what makes Watch Hill a "favorite place ever."
Stargazing: Clear nights offer exceptional stargazing opportunities away from urban light pollution. One camper describes the experience as a chance to "stargaze over the clear ocean" while falling asleep to "the waves crashing."
What campers like
Secluded beach access: The backcountry camping areas allow for significant privacy once you've hiked in. "After that you can choose where you want to set up camp. There are many spots along the dunes and allows to really space out from other campers," explains Emily S. about Fire Island National Seashore backcountry camping.
Ferry transportation: The boat journey adds to the destination's appeal and helps maintain the island's undeveloped character. Pedro R. notes it's "only about 20 min drive and 30 min ferry trip" to reach Watch Hill from nearby communities.
Getting away from crowds: Even during peak summer season, camping provides relative isolation. "Fire Island is a great spot in the summer, but can be busy. Camping gets you away from the bustle," shares Jill F., highlighting the contrast between the developed communities and camping areas.
What you should know
Insect preparation: Beyond basic repellent, consider additional protection measures for summer months. "Def bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!!! We spent a lot of time inside our tent, needless to say," warns Rosie R. about Battle Row Campground.
Shower facilities: The campground showers are basic and may lack privacy or consistent hot water. Pedro R. mentions "no hot showers as it was a beach bathroom shower. It was a little cooler so showering was not that great also showers are not covered no curtains."
Walking distances: From ferry to campsite and between facilities requires planning. "It is a little less than a half mile walk from the ferry dock and located behind the dunes which offer some protection," notes Jill F. about the Watch Hill area.
Fire restrictions: Standard campfires are prohibited in most camping areas. "The only disappointments were that there are no campfires allowed and no dogs, but it's very understandable why," explains Nora S., adding that these rules help preserve the protected status of the area.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Schedule activities around National Park Service educational opportunities. Inocencia O. mentions "there are park rangers on site and have excellent programs for kids" at Webb Mountain Park.
Consider nearby alternatives: For families seeking more amenities, mainland options provide easier access. "The playground is new and centrally located. They also have a horseshoe pit," notes katrina M. about Battle Row Campground on Long Island.
Timing considerations: Early season or post-Labor Day visits offer reduced crowds and insects. "We went the weekend after labor day," mentions Emily S., noting "it felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves because there was no one else even close to around us."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: True tent camping dominates Fire Island, with few RV accommodations. "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites," explains katrina M. about the Battle Row Campground, which provides a mainland alternative with "electric and water" hookups.
Site size considerations: The few RV-accessible sites nearby have specific limitations. "The sites all have a table and raised BBQ 'pit' for cooking only," notes katrina M., adding that the sites are "very big" but "you must have a fire container or bucket for your fire off of the ground."
