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Fire Island National Seashore Lifeguards watch over Sailors Haven beach.
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Fire Island National Seashore
Watch Hill Visitor Center
 

The Watch Hill Visitor Center is one of the first stops after you get off the ferry in the middle of the Watch Hill Marina. You may pick up park brochures or a Junior Ranger Activity booklet. Watch the Fire Island National Seashore orientation film. Stop by the Touch Table to discover some of the seashells and other ocean life that have washed ashore. Meet the latest inhabitants of the Watch Hill aquarium.

Learn about the dynamic barrier island, the dunes and swales, and the plants and birds and other wildlife that you may see on your walk to the beach or around the Watch Hill Nature Trail.

At the Eastern National sales outlet, you may purchase books about the history of Fire Island, field guides to the native plants and animals, and interesting items for kids of all ages.

During the summer, you may participate in one of the ranger-conducted tours or other activities. Seaside Stories and Crafts has been a favorite program for children. Guided canoe tours are offered on weekends.

Man dressed in light-colored clothing, wearing large backpack, loads gear onto ferry.
Campers take the Ferry to Watch Hill
You may get your wilderness camping permit at the Watch Hill Visitor Center, when staffed.
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Colorful Junior Ranger patch and gold plastic badge.
For Kids: Junior Ranger Patch or Badge
is the reward for completing Fire Island's Junior Ranger Workbook.
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View from the top of Fire Island Lighthouse, looking west over the narrow island to the inlet in the distance.

Did You Know?
The first Fire Island Lighthouse was built in 1826 on the western end of the island. Today, Fire Island Inlet is more than 5 miles west of this foundation.
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Last Updated: September 20, 2011 at 14:56 MST