Fire Island National Seashore, NY

You won’t want to miss this fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, contribute to important conservation efforts, and experience the breathtaking beauty of Fire Island.

We invite you to join us for a rewarding week of volunteer service! Fire Island is a stunning roadless barrier island that serves as a vital protector of Long Island’s south shore from the Atlantic Ocean.

Accessible primarily by water, Fire Island offers visitors a unique and tranquil experience. Encompassing approximately 19,580 acres, including water, the island is home to significant natural and cultural resources. This includes around 1,400 acres of designated wilderness—New York State’s only Federally designated wilderness area—and the historic William Floyd Estate, a 600-acre site linked to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Additionally, the iconic Fire Island Lighthouse, built in 1858, and the Carrington House, constructed in 1912, are part of the park’s rich heritage.

Volunteers will cross the Great South Bay via a National Park Service vessel to reach Watch Hill, Fire Island, where they will reside in employee housing for the week. Accommodations include individual bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a shared kitchen and living area, creating a comfortable basecamp for all operations.

Volunteers will engage in vital conservation work, including trimming back vegetation on trails and boardwalks, conducting minor trail maintenance using hand tools and navigating to diverse work sites via hiking, motor water vessels, and 4×4 vehicles.

During off-hours, volunteers will have the opportunity to explore the serene beauty of the island, as the Watch Hill area is quiet during this season (the majority of Fire Island will be in peak season)). Adjacent to Watch Hill is the Otis Pike High Dune Wilderness, a diverse landscape featuring patches of seaside plants, pine forests, and sheltered marshes along the Great South Bay. The Wilderness offers a remote and pristine experience ideal for backcountry camping and hiking.

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.