The white blossoms of beach plum divulge the shrub's abundance scattered across the interior of the dunes. This plant has been traditionally used in making jam.
Well camouflaged in their habitat, the late-March arrival of piping plovers is a sign that spring has arrived.
|
|
Before Memorial Day, the air can still be chilly and the weather is somewhat unpredictable so dressing in layers is recommended. Ferry service to Sailors Haven and Watch Hill does not begin until mid-May, but you can easily walk in from nearby communities where ferries are operating on a limited schedule.
School groups are venturing out to the park and education programs are underway at park sites. The Watch Hill campground opens mid-May and offers family sites as well as one organized group site.
Now is the time to catch the annual spring wildflowers and the migration of spring birds. Piping plovers, one of Fire Island's endangered species, usually arrive on the ocean beaches by early April. Please respect all signs and postings regarding endangered species and their habitat.
Facilities Open:
 Fire Island Lighthouse
Sailors Haven (mid-May - Mid-October)
Watch Hill (mid-May - Mid-October)
Wilderness Visitor Center (mid-May - December)
William Floyd Estate (late-May - Mid-October)
|
