Tent camping near West Sayville, New York offers primitive options along the barrier beaches of Fire Island National Seashore. The area experiences moderate coastal temperatures with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows near 25°F. Fall camping provides cooler temperatures and fewer insects, while summer attracts more visitors to the shoreline campsites.
What to do
Backcountry beach hiking: At Fire Island National Seashore, campers can walk 1-3 miles to reach the western side campsites. "Very secluded, and peaceful weekend by the water. Make sure to get a reservation if you're going in between march 15 and labor day," notes camper Nora S.
Bike riding: Battle Row Campground offers paved pathways suitable for cycling around the grounds. According to camper Lexis N., "You can take bike rides, and relax outside with a nice amount of space to yourself."
Stargazing: The beach location of Watch Hill provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities. "Listen to the waves crashing as you sleep and stargaze over the clear ocean," writes Inocencia O.
Trail exploration: At Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, campers access over 40 miles of hiking trails directly from their sites. Ethan K. confirms, "The best part of this campsite are the endless trails in the area. I believe there are over 40 miles of trails in this area."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Battle Row Campground offers tent sites set back from common areas. Local resident Michael M. appreciates that "Each site is set back off a common area so there is plenty of privacy. It's great if your local easy in and out."
Year-round availability: Several campgrounds remain open throughout winter months. Paul R. notes about Ward Pound Ridge Reservation: "They have great sights and are open all year round. I've stayed in hammocks, tents, lean-tos, and even did a good share of car camping."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, many campgrounds maintain their amenities well. At Battle Row, one camper observed, "The bathroom was very clean and well stocked."
Wildlife viewing: Mountain Lakes Park offers opportunities to spot local fauna along its trails and lakes. Ben H. describes it as "A gorgeous piece of land that contains lakes, a lookout and Mt. Bailey, the highest point in Westchester County."
What you should know
Insect preparation: Summer camping requires serious bug protection at coastal sites. At Watch Hill Fire Island Campground, Igor K. warns: "Lots of mosquitoes, be prepared."
Fire restrictions: Different campgrounds have varying fire rules. Watch Hill prohibits open fires entirely. Jill F. explains, "You can bring charcoal to cook on the grills provided or camp stoves, though."
Transportation logistics: Ferry access to Watch Hill requires planning. Pedro R. advises, "Only about 20 min drive and 30 min ferry trip for us we got to watch hill... It's a bit of a walk to camp site but all on board walk (we took to carts full of stuff)."
Reservation requirements: In-person booking is mandatory at some locations. For Ward Pound Ridge, Anil S. recommends, "There is no phone or internet reservations and has to be made in person at the office. I would recommend call earlier and come in few minutes earlier to 9 am when the office opens to find the best spots."
Tips for camping with families
Pack portable shade: For beach camping locations with limited natural cover, bring additional shade structures. One Watch Hill camper recommends, "Bring a shelter or a canopy with a mosquito net!"
Utilize playground facilities: Battle Row offers newer play equipment centrally located for easy monitoring. A visitor noted, "The playground is new and centrally located."
Take advantage of ranger programs: Mountain Lakes Park offers seasonal activities for children. Ethan K. mentions the recreational options: "The area, as the name implies, is home to several lakes which can be used for various recreational purposes."
Consider shelter sites: For families new to camping or concerned about weather, look for parks with lean-to options. Will L. reports from Ward Pound Ridge: "Stayed three nights and had an amazing time, super cozy by the fire in our shelter and our site was minutes from some amazing trails."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for tent/RV separation: Battle Row maintains distinct areas for different camping styles. Katrina M. explains, "There are lots of RVs but not close to tent sites."
Utility access: Water and electric hookups vary significantly between campgrounds. At Battle Row, "The sites have provided electric and water and are kept so clean," according to a regular camper.
Limited dump facilities: Most campgrounds in the area lack full RV services. One camper at Battle Row notes, "The water spigot and the gray-water dump are not right by the tent sites."
