Watch Hill Family Campground
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates mid-May through mid-October. Reservations for the 2026 season are expected to open in mid-February.
Lifeguards off-duty at Watch Hill on Wednesday, 8/27
The beach at Watch Hill is open, but will remain unprotected until lifeguard coverage resumes on Thursday, August 28. Please use caution and stay safe when visiting the seashore.
Pet Restrictions, Beach Driving Closures in Effect March 15 through Labor Day
To protect threatened nesting shorebirds, pets are prohibited in the Otis Pike Wilderness and on federally-managed ocean beaches. Beach driving is closed at Lighthouse Beach, Sailors Haven and the Wilderness area.
Talisman-Barrett Beach Dock Closed Due to Ice Damage; Reduced Services for Summer Season
Due to damage from winter ice, the Talisman-Barrett Beach dock is closed to all public use until further notice. No lifeguards will be present during the summer season. Visitors should pack out trash and expect reduced restroom services.
Main Phone Line is Down; Call Temporary Number 631-569-2099
Fire Island's main phone number (631-569-2100) is currently experiencing an outage. All callers to the Seashore's general line should call 631-569-2099 to reach the main directory. Dial 911 in an emergency.
Boardwalks at Watch Hill Partially Closed
Due to storm damage, partial closure of boardwalks at Watch Hill Nature Trail are in effect.
Possession or use of marijuana inside Fire Island National Seashore is prohibited.
While New York provides for regulated possession and use of marijuana, it remains an illegal drug under federal law and enforced within National Park units.
Raccoons Within Federally-managed Areas Observed Exhibiting Distemper Symptoms
Visitors are advised to avoid potential human and pet encounters with wildlife including raccoons. Raccoons with Canine Distemper Virus may appear lethargic or disoriented. CDV cannot be transmitted to humans, but can be transmitted to unvaccinated dogs.
Wind Advisory issued December 30 at 1:50AM EST until December 30 at 6:00PM EST by NWS Upton NY
* WHAT...West winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts 45 to 50 mph. * WHERE...Portions of southern Connecticut, northeast New Jersey, and southeast New York. * WHEN...Until 6 PM EST this evening. * IMPACTS...Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
About
Watch Hill Family Campground provides a camping experience unlike any other within Fire Island National Seashore. Situated on the eastern end of Fire Island and accessible only by the Watch Hill Ferry from Patchogue, New York, or by private boat, this unique destination offers 20 sand tent sites and 8 safari tent glamping sites for those seeking a true barrier island experience. The campground's remote location places campers within easy walking distance of pristine ocean beaches, tranquil bay beaches, and the entrance to the Otis Pike Wilderness. The 0.3-mile walk from the ferry dock passes the visitor center, marina, and ranger station before reaching the campground area. Despite its secluded setting, the facility offers full amenities including seasonal hot showers, flush toilets, potable water, and a camp store. Each campsite includes a picnic table and charcoal grill, and one ADA-accessible site features a boardwalk deck with tent tie-down points. Operated by concessioner LoveFINS, the campground combines the adventure of a car-free barrier island with the convenience of established camping infrastructure. The Watch Hill area also features nature trails, ranger-led programs, and a full-service marina. Open flames are prohibited due to brushfire risk, but campers may use camping stoves or the provided charcoal grills. The campground's seasonal operation and ferry-only access make advance reservations highly recommended, especially for peak summer weekends.
Directions
Accessible only by ferry or private boat. Take the Watch Hill Ferry from Patchogue, NY, or arrive by private boat to the Watch Hill Marina. From the ferry dock, walk south past the visitor center and marina, turn left at the end of the boardwalk continuing east past the ranger station. Continue east to the dune station and bathroom pavilion area and turn left. Total walking distance is 0.3 miles. No vehicle access available.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $35 - $199 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| information_fiis@nps.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (631) 597-6074 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
Photos
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