Robert Moses State Park Fire Island Inlet Road
Fire Island's only legal beach driving experience
The Fire Island Inlet Road cuts across the barrier island’s western terminus, where Robert Moses Causeway dumps you onto one of Long Island’s few legitimate beach driving experiences. This 4-mile stretch runs from the state park’s main facilities out to the Fire Island Inlet, threading between ocean dunes and back-bay salt marshes. The route passes the old Coast Guard station ruins and terminates at the inlet where you can watch commercial fishing boats navigate the treacherous cut between Fire Island and Captree Island.
Moderate difficulty due to soft sand conditions that change with tides and weather. High-clearance 4WD recommended, especially after storms when washouts are common. Beach driving permit required from park office, along with standard state park entry fee. Best driven at low tide from May through October when conditions are most stable. Dispersed camping not allowed, but nearby camping available at Heckscher State Park. This is your closest taste of legitimate beach driving to New York City.
Trail Specs
| Difficulty | Moderate |
|---|---|
| Trail Type | High Clearance |
| Surface | Sand |
| Features | Historic, Scenic, Water Crossings |
| Length (miles) | 4 mi / 6.4 km |
| Duration | Half day |
| Max elevation (ft) | 25 ft |
| Best season | May-October |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 4WD |
| Nearest town | Babylon, New York |
| Land manager | New York State Parks |
| Permit required | Yes |
| Cell service | Decent |
| Water crossings | No |
| Dispersed camping | No |
| Official sources | parks.ny.gov |
| Start coordinates | |
| End coordinates | |
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Location
Trail Conditions
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Frequently asked questions
Can a stock Jeep Wrangler or 4Runner handle this trail without modifications?
A stock high-clearance 4WD with a low-range transfer case will get you through, but airing down to 15-20 PSI is non-negotiable on soft sand. Lifted rigs aren't required — traction management and tire pressure matter far more here.
When is the beach driving area open, and can you go in winter?
The driving area is accessible May through October; winter access is generally closed or heavily restricted by New York State Parks. Shoulder months can be hit-or-miss depending on park staffing and conditions, so call ahead before planning an October or May trip.
Do you need a permit to drive on the beach at Robert Moses, and is there a fee?
Yes, a beach driving permit is required through New York State Parks — pick it up at the park office before heading onto the sand. There's also a standard vehicle entrance fee for the park itself, which varies by season.
What's the hardest part of this trail and what should I actually expect?
The soft, loose sand near the inlet and around the salt marsh sections is where most vehicles get stuck — it's deceptively deep and shifts with tide and wind. It's rated Moderate, but in a two-wheel-drive or with overinflated tires, you'll be digging yourself out fast.
Is there anywhere to camp overnight, and how far is the nearest gas if you're coming from Babylon?
There is no overnight beach camping permitted on the Fire Island Inlet driving section — this is a day-use area only. Gas up in Babylon before crossing over; it's your last reliable stop, roughly 10 miles out, and there are no fuel options on the barrier island.
Trail track
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