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DeWolf Point State Park

4.4
·151 reviews·Wellesley Island, United States

A tranquil Fire Island state park offering fishing, kayaking, and rustic cabin stays, known for its natural beauty but marred by pest concerns.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Nice shore

DeWolf Point State Park

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tranquil Fire Island state park offering fishing, kayaking, and rustic cabin stays, known for its natural beauty but marred by pest concerns.

4.4
(151 reviews)

"Beware of roaches; the park says 'they're here to stay,' making refunds a challenge."

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TIP

🪳 Beware of Roaches

Multiple reports of significant cockroach issues in cabins. Consider this before booking.

💰 Refund Hassles

Expect delays and uncertainty for refunds and key deposits. Document everything.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Waterfront Access & Fishing

Waterfront Access & Fishing

Shoreline

Enjoy fishing for bluegill, perch, and largemouth bass directly from the bank or launch your kayak for scenic water views.

Quiet Camping Experience

Quiet Camping Experience

Campground

A peaceful retreat for simple campers seeking a quiet escape. Ideal for those who appreciate nature and a less developed park atmosphere.

Kayak Launch Point

Kayak Launch Point

Waterfront

Easily launch your kayak to explore the water and enjoy beautiful views from a unique perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Cabin Concerns: Roaches & Refunds

Multiple visitors report significant cockroach infestations in cabins, leading to early departures. Refunds and key deposits are reportedly difficult to obtain, with long waiting times. Consider alternatives if this is a concern.

Parking & Overgrowth Issues

Parking can be limited, especially for cabins. Overgrown vegetation may obscure hazards and affect cabin views. Be prepared for a rustic experience and potential bug encounters.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Off-season
Why
Potentially fewer bugs
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I invite you to join me on a tranquil virtual journey through the enchanting landscapes of Dewolf Point State Park, nestled on the shores of Fineview, NY. With our cabin calony, picturesque sites, and boat dockage available; let's explore the serene beauty that makes this destination a true rustic beauty. #FineviewNY #DewolfPointStatePark #CabinColony #BoatDockage #RusticBeauty #NatureEscape
campgroundviews
5 likes • 229 views

🪳 Beware of Roaches

Multiple reports of significant cockroach issues in cabins. Consider this before booking.

💰 Refund Hassles

Expect delays and uncertainty for refunds and key deposits. Document everything.

📍Dewolf Point State Park Wellesley Island NY🤩ice fishing! Ice 🎣 🐠 🥶 #dewolfpointstatepark #photography #photooftheday #ny #gopro #nature #picoftheday #beautiful #wellesleyisland #art #photographer #bhfyp #travel #instadaily #dji #djiminipro3 #drone #water #ice
panoramic_life38
4.4K likes • 12K views

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be scarce, especially near cabins. Plan accordingly.

🌿 Overgrown Areas

Be mindful of overgrown vegetation, which can hide hazards.

Tips

from all over the internet

🪳 Beware of Roaches

Multiple reports of significant cockroach issues in cabins. Consider this before booking.

💰 Refund Hassles

Expect delays and uncertainty for refunds and key deposits. Document everything.

🚗 Limited Parking

Parking can be scarce, especially near cabins. Plan accordingly.

🌿 Overgrown Areas

Be mindful of overgrown vegetation, which can hide hazards.

🎣 Bank Fishing Fun

Good spot for casual fishing with chances to catch various fish species.

What Travellers Say

4.4
(151 reviews)

Reviews Summary

DeWolf Point State Park offers a quiet, natural setting with opportunities for fishing and kayaking. However, numerous reviews highlight significant issues with cockroach infestations in the cabins, leading to discomfort and early departures. While staff are described as friendly, obtaining refunds for issues like pests can be a lengthy and uncertain process.

"A small New York State park that offers a boat launch, cabins, camping, and a picnic pavilion. Also a nice place to fish off the bank for some bluegill or perch. The kids even caught a couple largemouth bass."

John Schuck

"I’ve never been before but definitely enjoyed. The cabin sites are a bit overgrown and not all cabins offer a view due to the overgrown weeds and trees. The cabins were clean. The bathrooms are a bit of a walk from cabin 10 on. It’s a small park so no playgrounds or pavilions. I was able to launch my kayak for a beautiful view on the water. It’s a perfect quiet spot for someone who is a simple camper. It’s all perspective."

Nichole Swansfeger

"BEWARE ROACHES

We arrived and unpacked and had a nice evening. Our group went to bed and that's when we found all the roaches. The park says "they're here to stay" so clearly they are just a part of the experience.

The cabins were nice looking but we couldn't risk bringing the roaches back with us. We had to pack up and leave at midnight.

When we asked about a refund we were told there's nobody to call and they had us fill out a form and maybe we get our money back in 6-8 weeks but they aren't sure. We did not get our deposit back for the keys either which is ridiculous since we turned them in.

I would avoid this place if you can. The caretaker of the park was very kind and easy to deal with but not knowing if we will get a refund is not ideal."

Justin F

What People Like

Quiet, natural setting
Fishing opportunities
Kayak launch

What People Dislike

Cockroach infestations
Refund difficulties
Limited parking

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

DeWolf Point State Park is located on Fire Island. Access is typically via ferry from Bay Shore, followed by a walk or bike ride to the park. Check ferry schedules and park access points before your visit.

While there's no direct public transport to the park itself, you can take ferries to Fire Island and then utilize walking paths or bicycles to reach the park. Car access is generally not permitted on Fire Island.

Parking can be limited, particularly near the cabins. Visitors have noted that designated parking spots may not be sufficient for all guests, so arriving early is recommended.

Driving directly to DeWolf Point State Park is not possible as it's located on Fire Island, which is largely car-free. You'll need to use ferry services to reach the island.

The closest ferry terminal to DeWolf Point State Park is typically the Bay Shore ferry terminal, which provides access to Kismet and other Fire Island communities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the park itself is generally free. However, there are fees associated with ferry transportation to Fire Island and cabin rentals if you plan to stay overnight.

As a state park, DeWolf Point is typically open year-round during daylight hours for day use. Specific hours for cabin rentals and facilities may vary, so it's best to check with the park directly.

Cabin rental costs can vary. It's recommended to check the official New York State Parks website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date pricing and availability.

There are no specific entrance fees to access DeWolf Point State Park for day use. However, ferry tickets and cabin reservations will incur costs.

Cabin reservations are typically managed through the New York State Parks reservation system. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak season.

🎫 🎣 Onsite Experience

Activities include fishing from the bank, launching kayaks, picnicking, and enjoying the quiet natural surroundings. It's a great spot for simple camping and relaxation.

Yes, visitors report success fishing for bluegill, perch, and even largemouth bass from the bank. Kayakers can also fish from the water.

Based on visitor feedback, the park is described as small and does not typically feature playgrounds or extensive recreational facilities. It's more focused on natural enjoyment.

Reviews indicate that while cabins may appear clean initially, some visitors have reported significant issues with cockroaches. Overgrown vegetation can also affect views and accessibility.

Given the reports of roaches, limited amenities, and potential overgrowth, families with very young children might want to carefully consider their comfort level before booking a cabin. The park is better suited for those seeking a quiet, rustic experience.

🎫 🐛 Pest & Wildlife Concerns

Yes, multiple reviews highlight significant issues with cockroaches in the cabins. Ticks have also been reported. Be prepared for insect encounters.

Visitors have reported that park staff acknowledge the presence of pests and may not offer immediate solutions. Document any issues and follow up regarding refunds or compensation.

While the park is in a natural setting, the primary wildlife concern reported by visitors is the presence of pests like cockroaches and ticks, rather than larger native wildlife.

Bring insect repellent and be vigilant about keeping food sealed. If staying in a cabin, inspect thoroughly upon arrival and report any issues immediately.

The main safety concerns reported relate to pests like cockroaches and ticks, and potential hazards from overgrown areas. Standard precautions for outdoor activities are advised.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Families planning a trip to DeWolf Point State Park should be aware of the significant concerns raised by previous visitors regarding cockroach infestations in the cabins. This issue has led to many families cutting their stays short. Additionally, the park lacks typical family amenities like playgrounds. If you choose to visit, consider a day trip focused on fishing or kayaking, and be extra vigilant about cleanliness and pest control if opting for a cabin stay. Thoroughly research current conditions before booking.

💰 Budget Travelers

DeWolf Point State Park can be an affordable option if you're looking for a rustic camping experience. While cabin rentals have associated costs, the park itself doesn't have an entrance fee. However, factor in the ferry costs to Fire Island, which can add up. Be prepared for potential unexpected expenses if you need to leave early due to issues like pests, as refunds are not guaranteed and can take weeks. Camping in tents might be a more budget-friendly and less pest-prone option than cabins.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cabin Stays: Expectations vs. Reality

DeWolf Point State Park offers cabin accommodations, which can be appealing for those seeking a more comfortable camping experience. However, recent visitor feedback paints a concerning picture. Several reviews strongly warn of significant cockroach infestations within the cabins. These reports are not isolated incidents, with guests describing large numbers of roaches scattering upon entering the cabins, leading to immediate departures and a negative overall experience. The park's response, as described by visitors, is that 'they're here to stay,' indicating a known issue that may not be fully addressed.

Beyond the pest problem, other cabin-related issues include limited parking for some units and overgrown vegetation that can obscure views and potentially hide hazards. While the cabins may appear clean and spacious upon initial inspection, the presence of pests and maintenance concerns have overshadowed these positives for many. Visitors have also expressed frustration with the refund process for early departures, citing long waiting times and uncertainty about receiving their deposits back.

For those considering a cabin stay, it's crucial to weigh these potential drawbacks against the park's natural setting. If you are particularly sensitive to pests or expect a pristine accommodation, you may want to explore alternative lodging options. If you do choose to stay, be prepared for a rustic experience and have a plan for documenting any issues encountered.

Navigating Fire Island Access

DeWolf Point State Park is situated on Fire Island, a barrier island known for its natural beauty and limited vehicle access. Reaching the park requires a multi-step journey, typically starting with a ferry ride. The most common departure point for ferries to Fire Island is Bay Shore, which serves various communities along the island, including those closest to DeWolf Point. It's essential to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary seasonally and by day of the week.

Once you arrive on Fire Island via ferry, you'll need to make your way to the park. Fire Island is largely car-free, so your options for onward travel usually involve walking or cycling. Many visitors opt to bring their own bicycles or rent them upon arrival to explore the island and reach their destination more efficiently. The park itself is relatively small, but the journey from the ferry dock to the park entrance should be factored into your travel time.

It's important to note that parking on Fire Island is generally available at the mainland ferry terminals. If you are driving to the ferry, research parking options and costs at your chosen departure point. The unique access method contributes to the park's secluded feel, but it also requires more planning than visiting a mainland park.

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