Backcountry Camping In The Otis Pike High Dune Wilderness
Open for beach camping through Labor Day 2026. Permits required via Recreation.gov. Pets are prohibited in the wilderness area during this period (March 15 through Labor Day). No potable water is available; campers must bring their own. The park's main phone line (631-569-2100) is currently experiencing an outage; use temporary number 631-569-2099.
Extreme Heat Warning issued July 2 at 2:56AM EDT until July 4 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Upton NY
* WHAT...Dangerously hot conditions with heat index values of 105 to 115 expected. * WHERE...In Connecticut, Northern New London, Southern Middlesex, and Southern New London Counties. In New York, Northeast Suffolk, Northern Nassau, Northwest Suffolk, Southeast Suffolk, Southern Nassau, and Southwest Suffolk Counties. * WHEN...Until 9 PM EDT Saturday. * IMPACTS...Extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...This is a multi-day extreme heat event with near record high temperatures and little overnight relief. This level of heat can be deadly for those without adequate cooling and hydration. Impacts to transportation infrastructure and electrical and water systems are also possible.
Rip Current Statement issued July 2 at 3:05AM EDT until July 2 at 9:00PM EDT by NWS Upton NY
* WHAT...Dangerous rip currents. * WHERE...Kings (Brooklyn), Southwest Suffolk, Southeast Suffolk, Southern Queens and Southern Nassau Counties. * WHEN...Through this evening. * IMPACTS...Life-threatening rip currents are likely for all people entering the surf zone. Anyone visiting the beaches should stay out of the surf. Rip currents can sweep even the best swimmers away from shore into deeper water.
Air Quality Alert issued July 2 at 3:05AM EDT by NWS Upton NY
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for the following counties: New York, Bronx, Kings, Queens, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Rockland. until 11 PM EDT this evening. Air quality levels in outdoor air are predicted to be greater than an Air Quality Index value of 100 for the pollutant of Ground Level Ozone. The Air Quality Index, or AQI, was created as an easy way to correlate levels of different pollutants to one scale. The higher the AQI value, the greater the health concern. When pollution levels are elevated, the New York State Department of Health recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, and those with preexisting respiratory problems such as asthma or heart disease. Those with symptoms should consider consulting their personal physician. For additional information, please visit the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation website at, https://on.ny.gov/nyaqi, or call the Air Quality Hotline at 1 800 5 3 5, 1 3 4 5.
About
Backcountry camping in the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness provides a rare opportunity to experience New York's only federally designated wilderness area overnight. This 7-mile stretch of barrier island features rolling dunes, maritime forests, salt marshes, and undeveloped ocean beach accessible only on foot. The area is divided into two camping zones: the Western Zone (maximum 24 campers per night, up to 8 per site) accessed via Watch Hill after a 1-3 mile hike, and the Eastern Zone (maximum 12 campers per night, up to 4 per site) accessed from the Wilderness Visitor Center after a 2-3 mile hike. This is true primitive camping with no facilities. Campers must carry in all water, food, and gear, and pack out all trash. Human waste must be buried in catholes at least 6 inches deep and 300 feet from water sources. Open fires are prohibited; backpacking stoves are required for cooking. Campsites must be located at least 300 feet from other camping groups. Late fall through early spring offers the most comfortable conditions, avoiding the dense tick and mosquito populations of warmer months. The maximum length of stay is three consecutive nights. At least one member of each camping party must be 21 or older with valid photo ID.
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 Wilderness Visitor Center. Note there is no parking available at the Wilderness Visitor Center; plan to be dropped off. The eastern camping zone begins on the west side of Old Inlet, about 2 miles west of the visitor center.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $25 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| FIIS_Information@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (631) 569-2100 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Useful Links
| Reservations | |
| Regulations | |
| NPS Campground Website |
Photos
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