Overview
Under the stars, near the sound of the surf, waking to a chorus of song birds, backcountry camping on Fire Island within the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness can be a memorable experience. This backcountry camping experience is available by permit only. Permits are limited and issued for specific nights and number of persons within the group. A maximum length of stay is three consecutive nights. Beach camping may be available from March 15 through Labor Day.
Location
Directions
By ferry from Patchogue: Take the ferry to Watch Hill or Davis Park and hike east. The western backcountry zone begins one mile past the Watch Hill Campground. By car from Smith Point: Take the William Floyd Parkway south to the end and check in at the Wilderness Visitor Center. Note - there is no parking available at the Wilderness Visitor Center. Please plan to be dropped off and picked up. The eastern camping zone begins on the west side of Old Inlet, about 2 miles west of the visitor center.
Weather Notes
Seasonal temperatures have historically ranged from below zero during December, January, and February to over 100 degrees in August. But average temperatures are more moderate. The fall and winter months along the coast are relatively cool and dry, with brief periods of rain. Spring along the coast can be cool and windy. Summers on Fire Island are typically warm and humid. Annual precipitation averages 38.9" with the distribution being relatively consistent throughout the year.
Backcountry Camping Permit Fee
A $25.00 fee is assessed for each primitive backcountry camping permit. Up to four campers can be included under one permit.
No cell coverage detected at this location.
The wilderness is divided into two zones extending east and west of the Bellport Beach boundaries. Eastern Zone: Maximum number of permitted campers is 12 per night with a maximum number of four campers allowed in each site. Western Zone: Maximum number of permitted campers is 24 per night with a maximum number of eight campers allowed in each site.
Trip Reports
0 reports
Sign in to leave a review.
Fri
56°F
6 to 9 mph NE
Sat
48°F
9 to 15 mph E
Sun
50°F
17 to 21 mph NE
Mon
53°F
20 mph NE
Tue
53°F
7 to 12 mph NE
Wed
55°F
6 to 9 mph E
Thu
58°F
7 to 10 mph NW