Escape City Crowds with Peaceful Island Camping at New York’s Beloved National Seashore

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Escape City Crowds with Peaceful Island Camping at New York's Beloved National Seashore

New York’s Long Island is comprised of the busy NYC boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn, plus huge waterfront homes throughout the Hamptons, Montauk, and Amagansett further east. With 8 million people, Long Island is also the most populated island in the contiguous United States. Yet somehow this New York City adjacent part of the state still offers some quiet retreats into nature.



Toward the eastern end of Long Island, you’ll find Fire Island. This long barrier island is home to Fire Island National Seashore, designated by the U.S. National Park Service. The 26 miles of federally protected land features sandy beaches and untouched maritime wilderness, making it one of the most breathtaking parks to visit in New York. Birdwatchers will love this place too, as it is home to sanderlings, herons, egrets, and more. What really makes Fire Island National Seashore worth a visit is the fact that you can go camping here despite being just one hour away from New York City.

Explore the sandy wilderness as you choose where to camp

landscape of sand and grass, blue sky



The Watch Hill Campground toward the eastern end of Fire Island National Seashore makes for a memorable camping experience because you can stay in a tent right on the sand. To wake up on the beach with a little more luxury, perhaps plan your next glamping trip at Watch Hill Campground too. You’ll feel like you’re in a mini beachfront hotel with Watch Hill’s safari style tents each complete with beds, mosquito nets, a covered porch, and an ice cooler all on a raised wooden floor. 

With a permit covering up to four people, you can go backcountry camping at Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness. The two designated camping areas within the wilderness are just slightly further east of Watch Hill on Fire Island. Hike along the Burma trail to enjoy the beautiful mixture of sand and plant life, but keep your eyes on the skies too and try to spot some of the aforementioned birds who frequent Fire Island. The Burma Trail also winds through the backcountry camping areas. Choose the best campsite, pitch your tent, and keep the Fire Island adventures going all night long.

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Reach Fire Island National Seashore by car or ferry

two ferry boats in open water

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.