National Seashore · NY

Dogs in Fire Island National Seashore

Can I bring my dog, and on which trails?
Limited accessLeash: 6 feet maximum, at all times.

Leashed pets can join you in some areas of Fire Island, but ocean beaches and the wilderness are closed to them for much of the year.

Park boardwalks, bayside beaches at the Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Talisman/Barrett Beach, and Watch Hill, plus ferries, water taxis, marinas, and Watch Hill Campground.
Photo: NPS Photo · NPS

Where dogs are allowed

Park boardwalks, bayside beaches at the Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Talisman/Barrett Beach, and Watch Hill, plus ferries, water taxis, marinas, and Watch Hill Campground.

Where dogs are banned

Ocean beaches (Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Watch Hill, Talisman, Wilderness), the Fire Island Wilderness, buildings, and picnic areas.

Seasonal closures

Ocean beaches and the Fire Island Wilderness are closed to pets from March 15 through Labor Day to protect nesting shorebirds.

Leash rule

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Service animals

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.

Official source
National Park Service
View the official NPS page →
Last verified 2026-07-09
Designation
National Seashore

Common questions

Can I bring my dog to Fire Island National Seashore?

Leashed pets can join you in some areas of Fire Island, but ocean beaches and the wilderness are closed to them for much of the year. Park boardwalks, bayside beaches at the Lighthouse, Sailors Haven, Talisman/Barrett Beach, and Watch Hill, plus ferries, water taxis, marinas, and Watch Hill Campground.

What is the leash rule at Fire Island National Seashore?

6 feet maximum, at all times.

Are there seasonal closures for dogs at Fire Island National Seashore?

Ocean beaches and the Fire Island Wilderness are closed to pets from March 15 through Labor Day to protect nesting shorebirds.

Are service animals allowed at Fire Island National Seashore?

Service animals are allowed where pets are not, under the ADA. A leash is still required.