Virginia creeper and poison ivy vines, shown here, turn a bright red in the fall. Be aware that even when it loses its leaves, poison ivy can still cause a fiery rash.

After Labor Day, the air usually cools and summer crowds dwindle. After the first frost, mosquito and tick populations decline. Although ferry service is reduced, you may still enjoy Fire Island National Seashore.

School groups and education programs are in full swing in early fall.

By mid-fall it is the perfect time to enjoy nature and the backcountry portions of Fire Island. Hiking and backcountry camping in the Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, although available year-round, is now recommended.

Catch the annual migration of birds and monarch butterflies. Watch as the poison ivy turns red across the island and see why some believe that it was this plant that led to the name "Fire Island."

Autumn is fishing and hunting season (waterfowl only). Proper permits (some fees are applied) can be obtained at the Wilderness Visitor Center and the West District Ranger Station (checkpoint).


Facilities Open:

 Fire Island Lighthouse
 Sailors Haven (mid-May - mid-October)
 Watch Hill (mid-May - late-October)
 Wilderness Visitor Center 
 William Floyd Estate (late-May - late-October)

Special Events and Programs